A HOME INSPIRED BY GOYA 

A little over half an hour’s drive from the city of Zaragoza (host city to the International Expo 2008), in northern Spain’s Aragon region, lays the pretty village of Fuendetodos. Settled within a shallow valley, the tightly packed sandstone houses and church tower form a scene of pastoral bliss within the rugged and untamed beauty of the Aragonese Llanos, or plains. A picture of rural charm, with cobblestone streets separating stone cottages dressed in ivy and bougainvillaea, this delightful village is the birthplace of Francisco Goya, one of Spain’s most famous painters of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Art lovers from around the world come to see the little cottage where the celebrated artist was born, and visit the art gallery dedicated to his memory, where younger generations of Spanish artists are now displayed. Last 30th March 2007, during the yearly commemoration of this fantastic artist’s birth, a scale model of the Museum of Contemporary Engravings of Fuendetodos was launched. In this ceremony the museum received more than 500 engravings that will increase its batches of works. This museum is a project designed by the architects Beatriz Matos and Alberto Martínez and it consists of a wonderful building with a surface area of more than 5,200 square metres, house of the modern engraving studio and several galleries aimed to exhibit originals, both in temporary and permanent exhibitions.

 It will also include the Interpretation Centre of Goya, a library and an auditorium. Fuendetodos has currently more than 1,500 engravings and its batches of works continue to grow. Its situation is the first thing to recommend Casa Goya; ensconced within the quaint ivy-covered sandstone walls of Fuendetodos, the home looks like it has come straight off the pages of a book on the prettiest villages. Settled upon its leafy terrace as you enjoy one of a variety of picture perfect views it does indeed conjure up images rural idyll personified. The quaint charm of this home fits right into its surroundings yet belies a comfortable, spacious home that enjoys modern luxuries and amenities.

Above all, however, Casa Goya is a home of infinite character and variety, offering the occupant an artistic and cultured setting in which to live. This home, with its split levels, mezzanine galleries and attractively shaped windows that look out onto tree-covered terraces and sleepy village squares is made for those who draw inspiration from their living environment. Rustic in style, the home features a cozy living room with fireplace and sloping wood-beamed ceiling. The four bedrooms reflect the same country style, characterized by such features as skylights and sloping ceilings, and bordered by two elegant bathrooms. Spacious yet homely, the house features thick stone walls that keep the heat out in summer and the warmth in during winter.

In a place like Fuendetodos, which has become a classic artists’ retreat, spacious sky lit studios add a typical touch, although such areas can also be used more conventionally as studies or children’s play rooms. While originally a residence, the property can also become a rural or country hotel in an excellent and sought-after location, thus becoming an excellent investment opportunity together with the art gallery. The art gallery Casa Goya’s link to art is made indelible by the art gallery that belongs to this property. Bordering the home itself, the 200m2 gallery is a charming facility that featured modern facilities such as heating, lighting and alarm system. Whether seen as a business and source of income or as a source of pride, it makes this one of the most iconic homes in a village characterized by art-and allows the occupant to own a home that is truly one of a kind.