Palace House of the Dukes of Medinaceli

Popularly known as the “Mayordomía Ducal” (Ducal Stewardship), this imposing Baroque building hides a historical curiosity: it was not built for the dukes, but for those who administered their power.

In the old regime, the Duke of Medinaceli rarely visited all his possessions. For this reason, in the last third of the 18th century, this residence was built for the steward, the true executor of the ducal will in the Villa de la Puente de Don Gonzalo. The building continues to breathe that air of authority and administrative prestige of yesteryear.

Architecturally, the facade is an open book on the art of the time. Its wide stone portal stands out and, above all, the layout of the upper floor: a central balcony majestically flanked by two viewpoints. A detail for attentive observers is the origin of its stone decoration: it comes from the quarries of Sierra Gorda. Experts attribute this carving to the Gallardo Brothers, the same master stonemasons who left their mark on the Sanctuary of the Conception, thus creating an invisible thread that connects the town’s great monuments.

Upon crossing the threshold, the palace reveals its classic structure: a courtyard with arches, stately stairs, and different halls. On the upper floor there is a large hall where light enters through the balconies of the main facade.

The Palace today: a meeting point
Currently, the building has recovered its public service vocation, although for a very different purpose: it houses the Villafranca Tourism Office. Where rents were once collected, hospitality is offered today. It is the perfect place to start your visit, not only because of the beauty of the surroundings, but because you will find personal attention to discover all the secrets of the municipality.