Cordova Palace

This palace was built in 1532 on a former palace in Las Descalzas Square. In 1918 it was partially destroyed by being adapted as neighbours yard. It was reconstructed in the Cuesta del Chapiz between 1960 and 1967 thanks to the documentation that existed about the structures and the fact that there were Mudejar coffered ceilings of the rooms preserved.

The Courtyard

The courtyard is surrounded by white marble columns on pedestals and capitals which support straight depressed arches, alternating between classical and Moorish motifs. In the second floor, the columns show Dorian capitals with linteled arches and a balustrade. Third floor is recessed with respect to the above mentioned, and is surmounted by a keeled-shaped eave and alfardones (tiles) in the spaces between.

The Façade

The facade is mannerist and is composed by two bodies surmounted by an eave. The access door connecting with the hallway is linteled and is framed by pilasters on plinths. These pilasters support 2 lions guarding noble crests.

The second body is formed by a balcony performed with several colours and cartouches referring to Fernandez de Cordoba family. There is also a big eave supported by corbels and alternating with lions. At the corner of the façade, there is a Gothic column with stalactite capitals on which a snake rests that gave name to the street where it was originally located.

Nowadays, it is seat for the Council Archive. These premises are used for formal celebrations. Only the outside area can be visited, from where you can enjoy beautiful sights of the Alhambra.