Palacio De Las Dueñas In Seville (Casa De Alba)
Start your cultural day after a relaxing boat tour Seville and continue exploring one of the city’s most elegant noble residences: the Palacio de las Dueñas, historically tied to the powerful House of Alba.
Palacio de las Dueñas—also known locally as Casa de Alba—is one of Seville’s most atmospheric palaces. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, it blends Gothic, Mudejar and Renaissance influences and is surrounded by courtyards filled with orange trees, fountains and bright bougainvillea. Since its public opening in 2016, it has become an essential cultural stop in the historic center.
History And Background
The palace takes its name from the former Convent of Santa María de las Dueñas, which once stood next to the property until its demolition in 1868. Originally owned by the Pineda family, it later passed to the Alba family through marriage, becoming one of their most beloved residences. The Duchess of Alba considered it her favorite home.
The palace is also famous as the birthplace of the poet Antonio Machado, whose early memories of Seville are tied to its courtyards and galleries. Through the centuries, the residence has welcomed personalities such as Grace Kelly, Jacqueline Kennedy, Rainier of Monaco and King Alfonso XIII.
Today, visitors can explore its gardens, patios, private rooms and the extensive family art collection, which includes more than 1,400 artworks—tapestries, sculptures, antiques and paintings.
Highlights Of Palacio De Las Dueñas
Beautiful Courtyards & Bougainvillea Walls
One of the palace’s most striking features is its courtyards. The main patio is surrounded by arches and decorated with ceramics and marble columns. Its lush gardens create a serene atmosphere, especially the façade covered in vibrant bougainvillea.
Renaissance–Mudejar Architecture
The building blends several architectural styles that were characteristic of late-medieval Seville. Gothic arches, Mudejar tilework and Renaissance details coexist harmoniously throughout the palace.
Art Collection
Visitors can admire historic tapestries from Brussels, Italian and Spanish paintings, antique furniture and a variety of sculptures collected by the Alba family over centuries.
Historic Residents & Guests
Besides Antonio Machado, several important figures have lived in or visited the palace, adding to its cultural and historical significance.
Essential Information For Visitors
Address: C. Dueñas, 5, Casco Antiguo, Seville
Tickets
- General admission with audio guide: 14 €
- Reduced (ages 6–16, students up to 25, seniors 65+): 10 €
- Children under 6: Free
Opening Hours
- April–September: 10:00–20:00 (last entry 19:15)
- October–March: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:15)
- Closed: January 1, January 6, December 25 (December 24 open until 15:00)
Quick Facts
- Located in the Casco Antiguo district of Seville.
- Also called Casa de Alba due to its connection to the House of Alba.
- Built in the late 15th century, expanded in the 16th century.
- Birthplace of Spanish poet Antonio Machado.
- Features a blend of Gothic, Mudejar and Renaissance architecture.
- Houses more than 1,400 artworks across tapestries, sculptures and paintings.
- Known for its bougainvillea façade and peaceful courtyards.
- Hosted historical guests such as Jacqueline Kennedy and Grace Kelly.
- Open to the public since 2016.
- audio guides included with ticket purchase.
Engaging Data Table
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Palacio de las Dueñas (Casa de Alba) |
| Location | C. Dueñas 5, Casco Antiguo, Seville |
| Construction Period | Late 15th – early 16th century |
| Architectural Styles | Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance |
| Notable Resident | Antonio Machado (born here) |
| Art Collection | 1,400+ pieces (tapestries, sculptures, paintings) |
| Owners | House of Alba |
| Ticket Price | 14 € (standard), 10 € (reduced), free under 6 |
| Public Opening | 2016 |
| Visitor Highlights | Bougainvillea façade, courtyards, gardens, tapestries |
| Nearby Experiences | Cathedral, Casa de Pilatos, Seville river cruise |
Visiting Tips
- Mornings offer the best lighting in the main courtyard for photography.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages and included in the ticket.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Casa de Pilatos or the Metropol Parasol.
- Booking tickets ahead of time is recommended during weekends and spring season.
How To Get There
Palacio de las Dueñas is located in the northern part of the historic center, a 10–12 minute walk from La Campana and the Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol). It can be reached easily on foot from most central neighborhoods and is also well connected for visitors traveling from Jerez de la Frontera.