In Perpignan, the walls of the Saint-Jean district tell stories. To see that for yourself, look no further than the strange frieze of Casa Xanxo, a historic monument located on Rue de la Main de Fer. On the main floor of this flamboyant 16th-century gothic mansion built in Catalan style, you can see an impressive frieze of hell and the seven deadly sins. In the image, a lion represents pride and an owl represents greed. You’ll also find lust, envy, wrath, gluttony and sloth. The presence of these grotesque characters remains a mystery today – were they a reflection of the financial success of Bernat Xanxo, a wealthy draper? Open the door and you might find the beginnings of an answer.
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