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Palace · León, Castela e Leão
Palacio de los Guzmanes
16th-century Renaissance palace, next to Casa Botines, with an arcaded courtyard, seat of the Diputación de León.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Palacio de los Guzmanes
The Palacio de los Guzmanes stands on the praça de San Marcelo, next to Casa Botines, and is León's main Renaissance palace. It was commissioned in the 16th century by Ramiro Núñez de Guzmán, from one of the city's most powerful families, built over the houses of the lineage. The design is by architect Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón, one of the leading figures of the Spanish Renaissance.
The façade is stone, with framed windows, a gallery of arches on the top floor and corner towers, decorated with the family's coats of arms. The inner courtyard, with two levels of arcades, columns and balustrades, is the most beautiful part of the building.
The palace remained unfinished for centuries. At the end of the 19th century, the Diputación Provincial de León, the provincial government, took over the building, completed the works and installed its headquarters there, which remains to this day.
Because it is a government seat, the interior is visited at specific times and by guided tours. The façade and the ensemble with Casa Botines and the church of San Marcelo form one of the most photographed squares in the city.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 15 minutes for the façade to 45 minutes with the guided tour.
Best time
During the day. Guided tours of the interior have specific days and times; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on the praça de San Marcelo, in the center, next to Casa Botines, about a 10-minute walk from the cathedral.
Tip
If you manage to get in, go straight to the arcaded courtyard: it's the most beautiful part of the palace.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Palacio de los Guzmanes
What is the Palacio de los Guzmanes?
It is the main Renaissance palace of León, from the 16th century, next to Casa Botines. Today it houses the provincial government.
Can you visit the Palacio de los Guzmanes from the inside?
Yes, on guided tours with specific days and times. Check before you go.
Who designed the Palacio de los Guzmanes?
The architect Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón, in the 16th century.