Palacio De La Condesa De Lebrija
Explore one of Seville’s most exquisite hidden gems before or after your Seville boat tour—the Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija, an extraordinary private residence turned museum known for its Roman mosaics and eclectic art collection.
Situated on Calle Cuna in the historic center, the palace is often considered one of Europe’s best-preserved aristocratic homes, combining Mudejar architecture with archaeological treasures collected by the Countess of Lebrija in the early 20th century.
History And Architecture Of The Lebrija Palace
The Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija was originally constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries, built in classic Sevillian manor-house style. Its layout, with a central patio, Mudejar elements, carved wooden ceilings, and tiled walls, reflects the architectural traditions that shaped many noble homes in the Andalusian capital.
In 1901, Regla Manjón Mergelina—the Countess of Lebrija—acquired the residence. Renowned for her deep interest in archaeology, history, and the decorative arts, she transformed the palace into a personal museum. Her passion led her to assemble one of the world’s most significant private collections of Roman mosaics, most of them excavated from the ancient Roman city of Italica.
Today, the palace showcases an extraordinary mix of artifacts: mosaics, ceramics, sculptures, tapestries, antique furniture, Asian and Moorish decorative pieces, and paintings from several European schools.
What To Expect Inside The Palace
Visitors enter directly onto the mosaic-covered ground floor, where more than 580 m² of Roman flooring spreads across the rooms—making it one of Spain’s largest private Roman mosaic collections. The patio is adorned with marble columns, Islamic tiles, and a mixture of Renaissance and Mudejar design features.
Guided visits (included for the upper floor) reveal a collection of intimate family rooms, including the former dining room, a private chapel, an oriental hall, several Arabic-influenced chambers, and the Countess’s library. The upper floor contains works attributed to artists connected to the Murillo school and a painting by the Flemish master Van Dyck.
The palace remains somewhat hidden behind its modest façade, making it easy to miss while walking through central Seville—yet once inside, it’s one of the most unexpectedly impressive houses in the city.
Key Facts About The Palacio De Lebrija
- Location: Calle Cuna 8, in Seville’s historic Casco Antiguo district.
- Architectural Style: Primarily Mudejar and Sevillian manor-house style from the 15th–16th centuries.
- Owner & Transformation: Purchased in 1901 by Regla Manjón Mergelina, Countess of Lebrija.
- Roman Mosaic Collection: Over 580 m² of perfectly preserved Roman mosaics, many sourced from the archaeological site of Italica.
- Other Collections: Persian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman ceramics; antique jewelry; Louis XIV furniture; and Asian art pieces.
- Upper Floor Highlights: Oriental salon, Arabic rooms, family dining room, private chapel, library, Murillo school paintings, and a Van Dyck piece.
- Visit Format: Self-guided access to the ground floor; guided visit required for the upper floor.
- Why It’s Important: Often considered one of the most beautifully curated private palaces in Europe.
- Nearby Landmarks: Close to Las Setas de Sevilla and Calle Sierpes in the city center.
- Perfect Combo: Many visitors pair the palace with a relaxing Seville river cruise for a cultural half-day in the city.
Practical Information
Address
C. Cuna, 8, Casco Antiguo, Sevilla, Spain
Ticket Prices
- Adults: 14 EUR
- Children (6–12): 6 EUR
Opening Hours
- September to June: Daily, 10:00 – 17:00
- July & August: Daily, 10:00 – 14:30
Visit Tips
- Don’t miss the guided tour of the upper floor—it’s the only way to see the Oriental rooms and private chapel.
- The building’s modest exterior makes it easy to walk past; watch for the entrance signage.
- Plan about 1–1.5 hours to explore comfortably.
Palacio de Lebrija – Quick Reference Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Type | Historic aristocratic palace & art museum |
| Location | Calle Cuna 8, Casco Antiguo, Seville |
| Founded | Original structure: 15th–16th centuries |
| Renovated By | Countess of Lebrija (Regla Manjón Mergelina) in 1901 |
| Key Feature | 580 m² of Roman mosaics from Italica |
| Art Collections | Roman, Greek, Persian, and Etruscan artifacts; European paintings; antique furniture |
| Floor Access | Ground floor self-guided; upper floor guided |
| Notable Rooms | Oriental Room, Arabic Rooms, Private Chapel, Library |
| Nearby Attractions | Las Setas, Metropol Parasol, Calle Sierpes |
| Ideal Combination | Museum visit + Seville river tour for a full cultural day |
Why You Should Visit Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija
A visit to this palace is a journey into layers of Andalusian, Roman, and aristocratic history—all preserved in a uniquely intimate setting. Its collection is both academically valuable and visually spectacular. Whether you are interested in archaeology, architecture, antiques, or simply beautiful spaces, the Palacio de Lebrija is one of the most rewarding places to explore in central Seville.
For a perfectly rounded day, many travellers enjoy combining the palace with a relaxing Seville sightseeing cruise along the Guadalquivir River, offering a serene contrast to the dense beauty of the museum.