Casa de Pilatos is a historic palace at Plaza de Pilatos in Seville’s old quarter. Built across the 15th and 16th centuries, it brings together Mudéjar, Gothic and Renaissance details in courtyards, gardens and rooms once used as a noble residence. Look for patterned ceramic tiles, marble columns, carved ceilings and Roman sculptures. A ground-floor visit includes the patios and gardens; a separate guided tour takes you to the upper rooms, where the Medinaceli family’s private spaces and antiques add another layer to the visit.
A palace shaped by ties to Italy
Casa de Pilatos stands at Plaza de Pilatos in Seville’s historic centre. Its construction began in the late 15th century, when the Enríquez and Ribera families joined through marriage. The family’s connections with Italy helped bring Renaissance art and ideas into the building, alongside local Mudéjar traditions and Gothic elements.
The palace is also known as the House of Alcalá de los Gazules. Its formal name is Palacio de los Adelantados Mayores de Andalucía. In the mid-19th century, the building underwent a major remodelling that introduced Romantic details. As a result, its rooms and courtyards reflect several periods of change rather than a single architectural style.
The courtyard, tiles and sculpture
The main courtyard is a good place to take in the palace’s different materials and influences. Marble columns and arches frame the space, while a fountain and busts of Roman emperors and Greek gods draw the eye to the centre. Roman sculptures also appear around the courtyards, so look beyond the main patio as you move through the complex.
Ceramic tiles, known as azulejos, cover many of the palace walls. The collection includes around 150 designs, with colourful patterns that sit alongside carved stone and decorative ceilings. The rooms also contain paintings, tapestries, furniture and other objects. Take time to look up: some ceilings are made from patterned wooden beams, a feature known as artesonado.
The gardens and upper rooms
Gardens and smaller patios sit among the palace buildings, offering a change of pace from the decorated interior rooms. Their greenery, orange trees and water features soften the stone and tilework. The estate is smaller than Seville’s Real Alcázar, but its connected courtyards and garden spaces give the visit a more intimate scale.
The ground-floor ticket covers the courtyards, gardens and rooms on that level. Access to the upper floor is by guided tour and requires an additional charge. The tour visits private rooms associated with the Dukes of Medinaceli, including spaces with antiques. Check ticket availability in advance if this part of the palace is important to your plans.
Planning your visit
An audio guide is available with the entry ticket. You access it on your smartphone, so bring headphones if you want to listen as you walk through the rooms. The guide covers the palace’s history and individual spaces; if you prefer a live explanation, the upper-floor tour is a separate option.
Allow about an hour to an hour and a half for a visit. Weekdays and quieter periods, including Thursday mornings, can make it easier to explore at a measured pace. On a hot day, bring water and take a break in the courtyard. The palace is at Plaza de Pilatos, 1, in Seville’s old quarter.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Casa de Pilatos?
Allow about one to one and a half hours for the palace, courtyards and gardens.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Admission is charged, and the guided tour of the upper floor has an additional charge.
Can you visit the upper floor?
Yes. Upper-floor rooms are visited on a guided tour, which costs extra. Booking ahead is recommended.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes. The ticket includes access to an audio guide on your smartphone. Bring headphones if you plan to use it.
