Casa del Almirante, Tudela

Nestled in the heart of Tudela’s Old Town, Casa del Almirante stands as a testament to the rich architectural and cultural heritage of this charming Spanish city. This Renaissance palace, one of the most captivating examples of 16th-century civil architecture in Spain, offers a window into the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era.

A Glimpse into History

The Casa del Almirante, also known as the Palace of the Cabanillas Berrozpe, was constructed between 1520 and 1560, replacing an earlier 15th-century mansion. The palace’s first known owners were the Cabanillas Berrozpe family, heirs to the Gómez Peralta lineage. Over the centuries, the ownership of the palace changed hands several times, passing through the Castillo Cabanillas and Gómez de Peralta families in the 17th century, the Ximénez de Cascante and Ximénez de Antillón families in the 18th century, and finally to the Barón de la Torre in the 19th century.

In the 19th century, the palace became the summer residence of Joaquín Ezquerra del Bayo, a distinguished mining engineer and founding member of the Royal Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences. His contributions to science and his connection to the royal court earned him several honors, including the Order of Carlos III and the title of Gentilhombre de Cámara.

Architectural Marvel

The Casa del Almirante is a three-story brick mansion that epitomizes the Plateresque style, characterized by its intricate and ornate decoration. The façade, dating back to the 17th century, is adorned with two grand balconies on the first floor, each featuring splendid Plateresque decorations with anthropomorphic figures in high relief. These figures include two female figures flanking a central male figure, all supported by intertwined trunks, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to the structure.

Above the balconies, a frieze in relief runs along the façade, culminating in a profusely decorated wooden eave. The gallery of arches at the top of the building is another striking feature, reminiscent of the architectural style prevalent in the Ebro Valley during that period. The rectangular courtyard inside the palace is designed with the sober elegance typical of Aragonese architecture of the time.

Restoration and Revival

In 1976, María Carmen Forcada González, a decorator from Tudela, acquired the palace and undertook extensive restoration work to preserve and consolidate the structure. Her efforts included cleaning and reinforcing the magnificent façade, ensuring that the palace retained its historical integrity while being prepared for modern use.

In 2002, Forcada offered the palace to the Public University of Navarra for cultural activities. However, after four years of inactivity, she revoked the donation and instead ceded the building to the city of Tudela. The municipal corporation unanimously accepted the donation in 2007, with the intention of using the palace for cultural and educational purposes.

The city invested three million euros in further restoration and interior refurbishment between 2009 and 2010, under the direction of architect Belén Esparza Estaún. The palace was inaugurated as the headquarters of the María Forcada Foundation in December 2010, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its storied history.

A Hub of Culture and Learning

Today, the Casa del Almirante serves as a vibrant cultural center, hosting a variety of activities that enrich the community of Tudela. The María Forcada Foundation manages the palace, organizing exhibitions of plastic and contemporary arts, as well as courses, seminars, and conferences. The restoration has not only preserved the architectural splendor of the building but also revitalized it as a hub for cultural and educational endeavors.

Visitors to the Casa del Almirante can marvel at the intricate details of its façade, explore its historical interiors, and participate in the diverse cultural events held within its walls. The palace stands as a symbol of Tudela’s rich heritage, offering a glimpse into the past while serving the present and future needs of the community.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Casa del Almirante promises a captivating experience. Its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural vitality makes it a must-visit destination in the heart of Tudela.