Palacio de Viana

In one of the angles of the Main Courtyard or Reception there is an ancient door leading to the Hall of the Mosaic, which is named after the Roman mosaic from the 4th century, which can be found on the floor, and it was discovered, like many of the other archaeological remains located in Viana Palace, in Llanos de Roldán, Moratalla Palace (in Hornachuelos, Córdoba), and it was placed in this hall in 1923 following the wish of José Saavedra y Salamanca, second marquis of Viana.

It is a rectangular hall which is not very large. It is covered by a light plaster vault, decorated with mouldings and pebbles, and from which a votive lamp hangs, from the 18th century, providing the hall with light. On the main wall, we can highlight a great anonymous painting, painted on leather, representing “Cleopatra in Mark Antony’s funeral“, which is not very well preserved. From the left wall a 17th-century coat of arms hangs, embroidered in silver over red velvet. Several rustic pieces constitute the furniture of the hall, such as the popular sofa with golden and red brocaded cushion, the flamboy and Gothic carved chest or the cupboard with alcoves.

The two 16th-century seats of honour in the Hall of the Mosaic is of great interest. The seat of honour is a ceremony seat reserved for special moments and dignitary characters, both religious and civil. Many consider this a precedent of the choir stalls. Both cases are characterized by a great sobriety and robustness, although the one in the corner has more innovative features, such as the crest carved on the back, framed with mouldings. A similar composition can be found in an exceptional bench from the 16th century, whose geommetric Mudejar decoration adds an elegant feature to the hall.

The entrance door, connecting to the Hall of Signatures, is flanked by two pink-marbled columns with Arab bases and Roman capitals.

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

Text: J.A.S.C.