Courtyard of the Madama

If we mentioned earlier that the Courtyard of the Bars was intended to be seen from the outside, as an economic and social ostentation, the opposite happens in the Courtyard of the Madama, as it is conceived to be seen from a certain privacy.

The name Courtyard of the Madama refers to the naiad of the fountain, which was the ninph of fresh water in Greek mythology. The use of this kind of deities in gardening was very common in Roman times, which makes sense; but in the Renaissance, when classical tastes are back again, it also becomes fashionable.

In order to know the origins of this courtyard we need to go back to the 18th century, when the fourth marchioness of Villaseca, Ana Rafaela Fernández de Mesa carried out several important works in the palace, among which we can highlight the incorporation of this courtyard, or the Archive. However, it was not until the beginning of the 20th century, when the second marquis of Viana, José Saavedra y Salamanca, decided to plant the magnificent circle of cypresses surrounding the mentioned sculpture of the Madama, ultimately concluding the complex.

As for the vegetation, apart from highlighting the mentioned circle of cypresses, we cannot forget the four big and very old box round hedges framing the ensemble, the mandarine trees, the bougainvillaes, the heartsease… or the sweet fragrance with which the gardens cover the walls.

The floor of the Courtyard of the Madama is square shaped and the pavement is based on flat bricks. The palace windows facing the courtyard are those of the Hall of Tobías on the ground floor and the Marchioness’s Bedroom on the higher floor.

As a rule in this building, the courtyard is decorated by shafts, columns and other archaeological remains, thus providing a special taste and character. However, its architecture is very simple, with two floors: on the first one we can highlight its openings and windows and over them, an angled balcony to which four doors lead. The woodwork characterizes the beautiful blue colour of the whole palace.

If you are wondering what to do in Córdoba, we recommend you visit Viana Palace hiring one of our guided tours. We will dedicate there a special chapter to the Courtyard of the Madama. Choose to do high quality sightseeing with qualified staff. Do not hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.