The origins of Guadalajara date back to Roman times. However, it was with the Arabs that this settlement was renamed Wad-al-Hayara (“river of stones”), a place name that would evolve to its current name. Watered by the waters of the Henares River, without a doubt, the most important historical trace was left by the Mendoza dynasty in the mid-15th century, when it received the lordship of Guadalajara and gave splendor to the city for centuries. Its rich history has left an important architectural legacy in its old townbut also gastronomic, that you want to enjoy it shine or rain.
Cotilla Palace
The first construction of this palace dates back to the 17th century, as still revealed by the columns in the patio, which follow the Alcarreño model. At the end of the 19th century, its owners were the Marquises of Villamejor, Ana de Torres and Ignacio de Figueroa, parents of the Count of Romanones. The Chinese Hall is still preserved from that time, still decorated with the original wallpaper, in the style of the Qing dynasty, whose rarity in Spain gives it exceptional value.
Pantheon of the Countess of Vega del Pozo
The city of Guadalajara owes to the patronage and philanthropy of María Diega Desmaissieres, Duchess of Sevillano and Countess of Vega del Pozo, one of the best architectural ensembles from the late 19th century. Around 1881, he commissioned the construction of a vast complex of buildings, intended for charitable establishments and a family pantheon next to the current San Roque park.
The pantheon, whose glazed ceramic dome is one of the highlights of the city, reflects the influence of northern Italian art, combining eastern and western elements, which give the building a certain Byzantine stamp. Inside, the altar stands out, presided over by an excellent calvary; in the crypt, an imposing group of sculptures represents the funeral procession of the duchess. Throughout the building, every detail reveals the richness of materials and the perfection of its finish.
Guadalajara Museum
Opened in 1838, the Museum of Guadalajara is the oldest provincial museum in Spain. Since 1973, its headquarters have been the Palacio del Infantado, an impressive building built at the end of the 15th century and, without a doubt, the greatest architectural jewel in the city. Today it is also a great center for conservation, research, exhibition and learning of cultural heritage, which takes advantage of all the spaces of its headquarters with its exhibition halls, warehouses and workshops, it is a powerful cultural center that houses all kinds of activities everywhere.
Cover photo | Santi R Muela (Wikipedia)
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