Palacio de la Merced, Córdoba

Historic Building in Córdoba

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Turol Jones, un artista de cojones

The Palacio de la Merced is one of the things to do in Córdoba for visitors who appreciate grand architecture and peaceful cloisters. Originally a 13th-century convent of the Mercedarian order and rebuilt in the 18th century, this magnificent Baroque palace is now home to the Provincial Government of Córdoba. Located near Plaza de Colón, the building's striking façade and serene courtyards make it a favourite stop for photographers, history lovers, and those curious about Andalusian design.

Its beauty lies not only in the architectural flourishes of the Baroque era, but also in how the palace continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub. From art exhibitions to civic events, the building blends past and present in a way that feels uniquely Cordoban - and it is often visited on walking tours of Córdoba that highlight the city's palatial and religious heritage.

History and Significance of Palacio de la Merced
Things to See and Do in Palacio de la Merced
How to Get to Palacio de la Merced
Practical Tips on Visiting Palacio de la Merced
Where to Stay close to Palacio de la Merced
Is Palacio de la Merced Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Palacio de la Merced
Nearby Attractions to Palacio de la Merced

History and Significance of Palacio de la Merced

The origins of the site reach back to the medieval Convent of La Merced Calzada, founded in the 13th century. For centuries the convent housed Mercedarian friars dedicated to religious and charitable work. In the mid-18th century, the community commissioned a complete architectural reconstruction, resulting in the grand Baroque palace we see today. Its lavish façade, sculptural ornamentation, and elegant proportions reflect the aspirations of a religious institution at the height of Baroque splendour.

Following the disentailment of church property in the 19th century, the building passed into state hands. Eventually, it became the official seat of the Diputación Provincial de Córdoba, shifting from sacred to civic use. Despite these transitions, the architecture has remained remarkably intact, preserving a rare example of Andalusian Baroque design in its full expression.

Today, Palacio de la Merced stands as a testament to Córdoba's layered history - religious, artistic, and administrative - all housed within one monumental structure.

Things to See and Do in Palacio de la Merced

The palace’s most admired feature is its main cloister, a perfectly proportioned courtyard surrounded by porticoed galleries. Marble columns support elegant arches, and the central black marble fountain adds a sense of calm and balance. The play of sunlight through the cloisters creates ever-shifting patterns, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection or photography.

Inside, the imperial marble staircase forms the dramatic centrepiece of the palace interior. This staircase, grand yet harmonious, showcases the craftsmanship of Andalusian stonemasons and the theatrical elegance typical of Baroque design.

Throughout the year, the palace hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, public gatherings, and official receptions. These changing displays give every visit a different flavour, weaving contemporary creativity into the building’s historic fabric.

How to Get to Palacio de la Merced

Córdoba is easily reached via Seville Airport and Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, both of which offer domestic and international flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Córdoba on Booking.com.

Travelling by train is convenient thanks to the AVE high-speed line, connecting Córdoba with Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. From the train station, it's a 20-25 minute walk or a short bus or taxi ride to Plaza de Colón and the palace. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you are driving, park in one of the public garages near Plaza de Colón to avoid navigating the narrow streets of the historic centre. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Palacio de la Merced

Best time to visit Palacio de la Merced: Mornings for peaceful courtyards and ideal lighting.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free; exhibitions may vary.
Opening hours: Weekday hours, usually mornings and early afternoons.
Official website: Available through the Diputación de Córdoba.
How long to spend: 30-45 minutes.
Accessibility: Ground-floor cloisters accessible; some upper areas may have stairs.
Facilities: Public restrooms and nearby cafés at Plaza de Colón.
Photography tip: Capture the marble staircase from below to emphasise its sweeping lines.
Guided tours: Occasionally offered during cultural events or heritage festivals.
Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and tapas bars around Plaza de Colón.

Where to Stay close to Palacio de la Merced

There are several excellent hotels within walking distance. A comfortable nearby option is Soho Boutique Córdoba, offering modern rooms and easy access to both the palace and the city centre. For a more historic atmosphere, consider Hotel Macià Alfaros, set in a traditional building with Andalusian touches. Another convenient choice is Eurostars Palace, located close to the gardens and main avenues.

Is Palacio de la Merced Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Palacio de la Merced is absolutely worth visiting. Its majestic Baroque architecture, peaceful cloisters, and refined marble details make it one of Córdoba's architectural highlights. Combined with its role as a cultural centre, the palace offers visitors both beauty and insight into the city's evolving civic and artistic life. Whether you come for the exhibitions, the courtyards, or simply to admire the craftsmanship, it's a rewarding and memorable stop.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (2,825)

Palacio de la Merced, a Baroque 18th‑century former convent at Pl. de Colón 15 in Córdoba, now houses local government offices but opens parts of its elegant interior and gardens to visitors; guests praise the facade and sensory garden, note friendly guards who sometimes allow entry, and warn that access is limited to the central area (entry is free but brief), with a gift shop that has had issues with homemade preserves.

Piotr Dendys

6 months ago

"Beautiful palace across the park! But it's a functional local office! Guards are so nice and let you in to admire inside. The entrance to the officeis on the left side of the door to the church. Unfortunately the church was closed..."

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Rachel H

4 weeks ago

"Very nice palace - one of the gardens was also very sensory, so great for neurodivergent folks! Would advise against purchasing their homemade jamsin the giftshop - I bought two as a gift for someone and both were mouldy due to improper sealing...."

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Dejan Braki

a year ago

"This place was close to our hotel so we walked to it and the same name park across it. A beautiful Baroque facade drew our attention, so we learnt itused to be a medieval Monastery, but now it serves for some city administration purposes..."

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FAQs for Visiting Palacio de la Merced

A former Baroque convent now serving as the seat of the Provincial Government of Córdoba.

Yes - the cloisters and exhibition areas are generally open to the public.

It is usually free to visit.

The grand cloister and imperial marble staircase.

Next to Plaza de Colón in central Córdoba.

Nearby Attractions to Palacio de la Merced

Plaza de Colón: A lively square with gardens and monuments.
Jardines de la Victoria: Green urban gardens leading toward the historic centre.
Archaeological Museum of Córdoba: Rich displays of ancient Iberian, Roman, and Islamic heritage.
Palacio de Orive: Renaissance palace with elegant patios and gardens.
Plaza de la Corredera: Córdoba's grand Castilian-style square with cafés and arcades.

The Palacio de la Merced appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Córdoba!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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