Palacio de Villapanés

Palace in Seville

The Palacio de Villapanés, or Palace of the Marquises of Villapanés, is one of the most elegant examples of Seveille's 18th-century Baroque Palaces. Originally built as a noble residence, the palace exemplifies the refined taste and craftsmanship of the Andalusian aristocracy at the height of the Baroque period. Today, it has been sensitively transformed into a luxury hotel, preserving its historical essence and architectural integrity. Its façade, courtyards, and interiors remain a remarkable testimony to Seville's noble heritage, where grandeur and intimacy coexist in perfect harmony.

Located just beyond the eastern edge of the historic center, near the Santa Catalina district, the palace sits in a quiet area that once marked the boundary of the city's aristocratic quarter. The building's noble façade, with its balanced proportions and decorative richness, announces the refinement within. Every element—from the ironwork to the marble columns—reflects the craftsmanship and artistic ambition that defined 18th-century Seville.

What to See in the Palacio de Villapanés

The palace's two-story façade is a fine example of late Baroque design. Its large stone main doorway is framed by sculpted pilasters and crowned by a balcony, above which the family coat of arms is displayed with dignity. The windows, symmetrically arranged and protected by wrought-iron grilles, add rhythm and order to the composition. At one corner, a viewpoint tower rises gracefully, supported by white marble columns and offering sweeping views of the city—a symbol of both status and style in Sevillian noble homes.

Upon entering, visitors step into a grand entrance portal that leads to the main courtyard, the true heart of the palace. This square-shaped patio is surrounded by four arcaded galleries supported by white marble columns and crowned by elegant arches. At its center stands a red marble fountain, filling the space with the soft sound of flowing water. The courtyard's balance and luminosity make it one of the most beautiful examples of Sevillian Baroque domestic architecture, designed for both comfort and splendor.

The main staircase, built in three sections, is an architectural highlight. Designed with arches and columns that allow light to flood in from above, it creates an effect of spaciousness and grace. A plaster vault ceiling tops the staircase, while at the upper level a large coat of arms set between two ornate iron grilles celebrates the lineage of the palace's noble owners. The play of light, iron, and plaster here is one of the finest expressions of Baroque interior design in Seville.

At the rear of the property lies a second courtyard and an additional two-story annex, added later in the palace's history. The restoration of this section recovered much of the original façade of the left wing, ensuring that the building's symmetry and stylistic unity were preserved. Inside, great care was taken to restore original details, including the parquet flooring of the former bar hall, the coffered ceilings, and the hand-painted tiles whose vivid colors now glow as they once did centuries ago. These features, meticulously renewed, allow the palace to retain its soul while offering all the comforts of modern luxury.

History of the Palacio de Villapanés

The Palacio de Villapanés was built in the 18th century by the Marquis of Torreblanca del Aljarafe, one of Seville's prominent noblemen. The original construction included the main house, rooftop terraces, and several elegant viewpoints overlooking the city, as well as a private garden. The design followed the Sevillian tradition of combining stately architecture with inward-facing courtyards, offering both grandeur and seclusion.

In the years that followed, the property passed into the hands of the Marquises of Villapanés, who inherited the estate and expanded it further. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the palace underwent significant enlargement with the addition of new wings, blending the old Baroque structure with more modern influences while maintaining its overall harmony. The Marquises of Villapanés continued to live in the palace until the beginning of the 21st century, preserving it as one of Seville's best-kept aristocratic residences.

In December 2009, the building was declared a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural), ensuring its protection as part of Seville's architectural and historical heritage. The transformation into a boutique luxury hotel was carried out with great respect for its structure and style, allowing guests to experience the atmosphere of an authentic Sevillian palace while enjoying contemporary elegance.

Today, the Palacio de Villapanés stands as a living monument—a perfect fusion of Seville's Baroque grandeur and modern refinement. Its restored courtyards, marble columns, and ornate staircases continue to tell the story of a city where art, architecture, and hospitality are woven together with timeless grace.

The Palacio de Villapanés appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Seville!

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!