PILATOS HOUSE
Prototype of Andalusian palace that synthesizes medieval forms including the flamboyant Gothic and the Renaissance imported from Italy.
Also known as the Palacio de San Andrés, this sumptuous residence is one of Seville's architectural jewels. Construction, initiated by the Marquis of Tarifa on his return from a trip to the Holy Land (as attested by an inscription on the façade), lasted a century and was completed around 1630. This prototype of an Andalusian palace, which synthesizes medieval (including flamboyant Gothic) and Renaissance forms imported from Italy, perhaps takes its name from its resemblance to Pontius Pilate's home in Jerusalem. This residence of the Dukes of Medinaceli is one of the city's finest palaces, featuring a Mudejar-style main patio, art galleries, halls and gardens. Right from the patio, marble columns, azulejos, statues of Roman goddesses and busts of famous figures from the ancient world (Tiberius, Caligula, Adrian...) tip the visitor between an intact Pompeii and an early Delvaux. The princely audacity to showcase the luxury of the finest arts continues in the gilded salon and the small Roman museum. A staircase with iridescent green azulejos leads to the second floor, which houses the Medinaceli collections (including a painting by Goya).
Tip. The second floor can only be visited via a guided tour, in Spanish and then in English, and lasts just under half an hour. If you don't have a lot of time, it's best to opt for the first floor visit alone (allow around an hour), which will be much more instructive.
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Members' reviews on PILATOS HOUSE
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
Les visites sont gratuites le mercredi après midi pour les membres de l'union européenne.
La visite du premier étage laisse par contre à désirer, guide peu agréable et seulement en espagnol ou anglais.
Il y a pas mal de choses à voir. N'hésitez pas à y faire un tour !