The Palace of the Marquises of Viana

The Palace of the Marquises of Viana is located in the heart of the popular Santa Marina neighborhood, a name it already bore in the 13th century, when Ferdinand III the Saint ordered the construction of the church that gave its name to this ancient district of Córdoba.

The main house, dating back to the 14th century, has undergone numerous interventions up to the present day, with the most notable being the expansion that took place in the 17th century, which largely gave it its current form. In the 20th century, between 1953 and 1963, the building was refurbished under the supervision of architect Carlos Sáenz for its new function.

The Viana Palace in the Santa Marina Neighborhood

The area covered by the Viana Palace exceeds 6,500 square meters, with almost 4,000 square meters belonging to patios, gardens, and open spaces. The layout is an irregular polygon, the result of the continuous addition of houses that have expanded the original structure. That is why there is no grandiose façade reflecting the nobility of its residents; only the corner entrance on Plaza de Don Gome faithfully reflects the grandeur of the Marquises of Viana.

We do not know for certain who the author of the aforementioned entrance is, although it is generally attributed to Juan de Ochoa. However, some see influences from Francisco del Castillo in the design, or even the hand of Hernán Ruiz II the Younger. It consists of a first lintelled section with coffered panels, above which rises a cornice interrupted by the balcony of the second section, which is framed by two large mythological sculptures attached to the façade. The structure is crowned above the balcony by the coat of arms of the Saavedra family, with a crest and marquis crown, surrounded by the collars of the Orders of Charles III and the Golden Fleece.

Tour of the Interior of the Viana Palace

The tour inside the Viana Palace is very interesting; however, the space should not be understood as a museum, but as a lived-in house, shaped by the needs of its inhabitants. We have structured the visit as the Palace is currently presented to the public, beginning with the open spaces, namely the patios and the garden.

Ground Floor

Afterwards, we will explore the rooms on the ground floor, where the Tobías Room stands out, decorated with excellent frescoes depicting the life of this well-known biblical figure.

Main Floor

Next, we will ascend via the beautifully crafted Main Staircase to the main floor, which, due to its size, has been divided into two zones: eastern and western. The richest and most luxurious furnishings are found in these rooms, where the exoticism of the Black Bedroom contrasts with the luxury of the Red Room and the rustic nature of the Country Kitchen.

Guided Tours

If you wish to visit the Viana Palace, do not hesitate to book one of our guided tours. We are experts in the interpretation of Córdoba’s historical heritage. If you have chosen to do tourism in Córdoba, choose a quality option—choose ArtenCórdoba.

Text: J.A.S.C.