Adventure the José Segrelles House Museum

Two of my regular students, who have since become close friends through our shared passion for Spanish art history over many years, joined me recently for a wonderful visit to the Casa Museu José Segrelles in Albaida. This trip followed an incredible exhibition of this brilliant Valencian artist's work in Valencia city. 

I am always drawn to exploring historic houses to admire their architecture, and this personal sanctuary did not disappoint. 

It is a stunningly eclectic space, blending traditional rounded arches with striking modernist chairs and magnificent, Aladdin-inspired couch alcoves that Segrelles actually designed himself, drawing from sketches he made during his time in New York.

The house is a visual feast, packed from corner to corner with over 150 of his original artworks and famous illustrations. 

Beyond his artistic genius, Segrelles was clearly a superior intellectual, and he had the book collection to prove it. Every single nook and cranny is jammed with books, so many, in fact, that an entire room was converted into a library. In a beautiful gesture to his hometown, he opened this space filled with 11,000+ volumes for locals to sit at a big oak table, read, and enjoy.

The absolute highlight is his painting studio, which takes over the top floor. It is flooded with natural light and boasts soaring high ceilings, providing the perfect backdrop for everything from his giant paintings of religious themes to the magical genies of The Thousand and One Nights.

What made the visit truly unforgettable was our guide, who walked us through the rooms with immense passion and shared fascinating insider stories. I was particularly curious about Segrelles’ political stances during the turbulent years in Spain. The guide explained that he stayed relatively quiet, but shared a beautiful historical tidbit: Segrelles’ closest friend and collaborator was none other than the legendary Valencian novelist and fierce pro-democracy freedom fighter, Vicente Blasco Ibáñez. Knowing that Segrelles illustrated the definitive editions of Blasco Ibáñez's radical novels, like Flor de Mayo, added a profound layer of depth to the visit.

If you love art, unique architecture, or fantasy illustration, do not miss this hidden gem. Just be sure to book your tour in advance, as they only open by prior arrangement!

DETAILS

• Address: Plaza Pintor Segrelles, 13, 46860 Albaida, Valencia, Spain

• Website: www.museosegrelles.es