Are you planning to visit Córdoba and feel like immersing yourself in Andalusian, Baroque, and Renaissance history and architecture? Then you can’t miss the marvelous palaces in Córdoba, incredible heritage gems that hold centuries of secrets, art, and aristocratic power.
If you’re planning a getaway through Andalusia, it’s best to have the freedom to move around and make the most of it. We recommend looking for options of hiring a car at Málaga Airport without excess, perfect for traveling to Córdoba from the Costa del Sol or exploring the province at your own pace.
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Viana Palace in Córdoba
One of the must-see attractions in the city is the Viana Palace, also known as the Palace of the Patios.
Here, a fascinating journey awaits you through spectacular noble rooms, dreamlike courtyards, and unique art collections that tell the story of Córdoba’s aristocracy from the 15th to the 20th century.
History of Viana Palace
The history of Viana Palace begins in the 11th century, when it was built as a residence for the Cordoban aristocracy. It originally belonged to the Góngora family, but over the centuries it passed through various noble houses, such as the Villaseca or the Marquises of Viana, whose title ultimately gave the building its final name.
The architectural evolution of the palace is almost as rich as its lineage. Each generation left its mark, expanding and beautifying both the main building and its famous courtyards. Thus, Gothic-Mudejar, Renaissance, Baroque, and even Neoclassical touches were incorporated, making its structure a sort of time capsule of Andalusian residential architecture.
But without a doubt, the most iconic feature of the interior of Viana Palace are its 12 courtyards, offering a unique glimpse into the Cordoban soul. Each one is designed with its own personality: the Cats’ Courtyard, the Well Courtyard, the Grilles Courtyard, the Archive Courtyard… all decorated with native plants, marble fountains, cobblestones, and handmade tiles.
This layout makes it a must-visit spot during the Festival de los Patios of Córdoba, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
Inside the palace, you’ll also find a vast museum collection, organized into themed rooms. From 16th-century Flemish tapestries to a library with rare volumes, including antique weaponry, period furniture, and sacred art, everything transports you to the life of Córdoba’s high society over five centuries. In this sense, it shares similarities with other noble residences in the province such as the Palace of the Guzmanes or the Palace of La Isabela, which also showcase the historic splendor of Andalusia’s most powerful families.
If you’re a photography or art enthusiast, get ready for an unforgettable session. The combination of light, color, and architectural details makes Viana Palace the perfect place to get inspired and learn more about Córdoba’s living history.
Viana Palace Opening Hours
The Viana Palace adjusts its opening hours depending on the time of year.
In general, it is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00 and on Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 15:00.
During July and August, the schedule changes to Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 to 15:00.
It is closed on Mondays.
To fully enjoy the courtyards and avoid the hottest hours—especially in summer—we recommend visiting the palace in the morning.
Viana Palace Tickets
The Palace offers two types of visits:
- Courtyard visit: €8.50
- Full visit (courtyards + interior): €14
Visits to the palace interior are only available through guided tours due to the value and fragility of the exhibited collections.
For more information, we recommend checking the official website of Viana Palace, where you’ll find updated details on hours and prices.
How to Get to Viana Palace
Viana Palace is located at number 2, Plaza de Don Gome, in the Santa Marina neighborhood, about a 10-minute walk from the Mezquita of Cordoba.
To get there, you have the following options:
- On foot.
If you are already walking around the historic center, walking is the best option. The stroll from the Jewish Quarter of Córdoba or from Plaza de las Tendillas is enjoyable, and you’ll pass through charming streets like Alfonso XIII or San Pablo.
- By bus.
The 1, 2, 6, 7, and 12 lines from Aucorsa have stops near the palace. You can get off at “San Lorenzo” or “Plaza de Colón,” just a few minutes’ walk away. This is an ideal option if you’re coming from the train station or further areas like the Brillante neighborhood.
- By car.
If you’re driving your own vehicle or a rental car, getting to Viana Palace is easy, as it is well signposted. Though it’s located in an area with narrow streets, you can park in nearby public parking lots.
Palaces in Córdoba City Center
Córdoba’s historic center is home to a rich collection of palaces that let you explore the life of local nobility from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Many have been converted into museums or institutional buildings, but they still retain their architectural beauty and heritage value intact.
Here’s a selection of the most interesting ones:
Palacio de la Merced
The Palacio de la Merced is probably the most iconic civic palace in downtown Córdoba. This majestic Baroque-style building was constructed in the 18th century as the Convent of La Merced Calzada, but after secularization, it became public property. Today, it houses the Provincial Council of Córdoba, but it remains open to visitors.
It stands out for its imposing white marble façade, elegant imperial staircase, and Baroque cloister adorned with Solomonic columns and floral details. It is often used for events, temporary exhibitions, and institutional acts.
Useful Information
- Location: Plaza de Colón, 15, Centro, 14001 Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 14:00.
Don’t leave without seeing the inner courtyard and its dome, reminiscent of Italian churches. Right next door are the Jardines de la Merced, perfect for a relaxing break outdoors.
Palacio de Orive
Also known as the Casa de los Villalones, this Renaissance palace is a hidden gem in the very heart of Córdoba. It was built in the 16th century and is one of the best examples of civil Renaissance architecture in Andalusia.
The Orive Palace features a sober façade made of ashlar stone, a square floor plan with a central porticoed courtyard, and an interior design that blends Plateresque elements with Mudejar details. It is currently owned by Córdoba’s City Council and is used for cultural exhibitions and public events.
Useful Information
- Location: Plaza de Orive, 2, Centro, 14002 Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 to 14:30.
- Entry:
Palacio de los Angulo
Less known than others, the Palacio de los Angulo is a true hidden gem in the historic center. Located near the Orive Palace, this 16th-century building was once the residence of one of Córdoba’s most influential noble families. Although it is not always open to the public, it’s worth stopping to admire its Renaissance-style façade, framed by Ionic columns and a large family coat of arms.
Today, the building has been partially restored and is used for cultural events and presentations. Despite being less famous, its history makes it one of the finest examples of noble civil architecture in Renaissance Córdoba.
Useful Information
- Location: Calle San Pablo, 31, Centro, 14002 Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: May vary depending on the season.
- Entry: Free whenever cultural activities are scheduled.
Episcopal Palace of Córdoba
This monumental palace is located right in front of the Mezquita-Catedral and has served as the residence of the bishop of Córdoba since the 14th century. Though it may seem modest from the outside, its interior is a marvel that you can now visit thanks to the Diocesan Museum of Córdoba, housed within the building.
Among its highlights are the Mudejar coffered ceilings, courtyards with reused Roman columns, and an impressive collection of sacred art, sculptures, and paintings ranging from the Gothic to the Baroque period.
In addition, from its balconies you get one of the best views of the Patio de los Naranjos. If you’re interested in religious history or art, this is a must-see stop.
Useful Information
- Location: Calle Torrijos, 12, Centro, 14003 Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: May vary.
- Entry: May vary.
For more information about exhibitions and opening times, we recommend visiting their official website or calling +34 957 49 64 74.
Palace – House of the Guzmanes
Located in the heart of the Realejo neighborhood, the Casa de los Guzmanes is an 18th-century manor house that has witnessed Córdoba’s history from various angles. Its layout revolves around two charming courtyards, one of them featuring a polychrome alfarje and Mudejar ajimeces from the 15th century—true architectural treasures.
Throughout its history, it has housed prominent figures and was the seat of the Municipal Archive and Library for decades, until it was acquired in 2025 by a private group for conversion into a luxury hotel. During the renovation works, artifacts from the Spanish Civil War were even discovered, sparking significant local interest.
Useful Information
- Location: Calle Realejo, Centro, 14002, Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: Not open to the public.
- Entry: Not open to the public.
Casa – Palacio de los Luna
The Palacio de los Luna is another one of those buildings that, while not well known outside of academic circles, deserves a mention.
The Luna family, related to Castilian noble houses, held estates in Córdoba during the 14th and 15th centuries, and this palace was their urban residence. Today, little remains of the original structure, as it has been partially absorbed by newer constructions, but some of its remains can still be seen integrated into old houses and doorways.
Useful Information
- Location: Plaza de San Andrés, 3, Centro, 14002 Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: May vary.
- Entry: May vary.
Palaces Outside Córdoba City Center
Beyond the historic center, Córdoba is home to other equally fascinating palaces.
Some are located in residential areas, others in nearby towns or rural settings that offer a more intimate and peaceful experience. These palaces, although less visited, represent a very interesting part of Andalusian aristocratic history and often surprise visitors with their architecture and natural surroundings.
Below, you’ll find the most notable ones:
Palace/Castle of La Isabela
Although not a palace in the strict sense, the Castle of La Isabela deserves a spot on this list for its imposing presence and unique history. It is located in Alcolea, about 15 kilometers from the center of Córdoba, and was built in the 19th century as a private recreational residence, with the appearance of a romantic castle inspired by neo-medieval architecture.
This castle was commissioned by a wealthy Cordoban family and stands on a hilltop with privileged views of the Guadalquivir Valley. Its historicist façade, with crenellated towers and pointed arch windows, makes it look like something out of a fairy tale. Although it is currently privately owned and not regularly open to the public, events or pre-arranged visits are occasionally organized.
Useful Information
- Location: Alcolea (East Córdoba), 15 min by car from Córdoba city center.
- Opening hours: No regular visiting hours.
- Entry: Only during events or by appointment.
You can drive up and enjoy an exterior view from the ring road. Very close by is the Periurban Park of Los Villares, ideal for combining nature with heritage sightseeing.
Palace of Torres Cabrera
Another lesser-known treasure is the Palace of Torres Cabrera, located on a private estate on the outskirts of Córdoba. Its history dates back to the 17th century and has been linked for generations to the province’s agricultural aristocracy. Although access is currently limited, it occasionally opens for cultural activities, conferences, or filming.
The building features a blend of rural Andalusian style with courtyards, columns, and old warehouses converted into noble halls. A visit here feels like traveling back in time to the rural lifestyle of Andalusian nobility.
Useful Information
- Location: Calle Condes de Torre Cabrera, 19, Córdoba, Spain.
- Opening hours: Not open for interior visits.
- Entry: Not open for interior visits.
Palace of the Muñices
Located in the former huerta de la Almunia, on the outskirts of the historic center, the Palace of the Muñices is a noble building little known to the general public, but of great architectural and symbolic value to the history of Córdoba’s rural nobility.
This Renaissance-origin palace was expanded during the 17th and 18th centuries by the Muñiz family, who turned the estate into a summer retreat. Although it is partially deteriorated today and in private hands, it still preserves original elements such as a large stone gate, courtyards with Tuscan columns, and remnants of traditional tilework.
Useful Information
- Location: Calle Muñices, 14002, Córdoba.
- Opening hours: May vary.
- Entry: Only available for pre-arranged cultural or academic visits.
Map of the Palaces of Córdoba
To help you better plan your tour of the city, we’ve created a map with the location of all the palaces mentioned in this post. Both those located in the historic center and those outside the urban core are included so you can easily locate them at a glance.
