palace of Villabona

The Palace of Villabona is a 17th-century noble residence standing in the hamlet of Villabona, within the municipality of Llanera in Asturias. The building is regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque residential architecture in the region and has been protected as a Cultural Heritage Site (BIC) with Monument status since 1982.

How did this palace come to be built?

The land on which the palace stands had already belonged to the Alonso de Villabona family by the end of the 15th century, but it was only in the early 17th century that the family decided to raise a residence befitting their standing. In 1615, Toribio Alonso de Villabona and his wife, Quiteria González de Oviedo y Portal, established the family entailment (mayorazgo), and construction began four years later, in 1619. The palace was raised in two distinct building phases roughly forty years apart, which explains the stylistic differences visible between its different sections today.

What can you see when you visit?

The most striking feature of the complex is its façade, completed between 1661 and 1669. It was originally flanked by two towers, one of which burned down in a fire during the 17th century and was never rebuilt — today only a single tower remains, giving the palace its distinctive asymmetrical profile. Inside, the highlight is the chapel dedicated to the Three Wise Men, designed by the architect Juan de Naveda and dated to 1625, making it one of the oldest and best-preserved features of the interior. Further alterations took place through the 17th and 18th centuries, adding new elements while leaving the palace's original Baroque character intact.

How do you get there?

Villabona sits within the municipality of Llanera, a short drive from Oviedo, in the heart of Asturias. The surrounding countryside is typical of the region: gentle hills, scattered farmhouses, and small villages. The easiest way to reach the palace is by car, either from Oviedo or from the nearby Asturias Airport, both usually within 20 to 30 minutes' drive. It's worth combining the visit with a tour of other historic manor houses scattered across Llanera, a municipality known for several similar 17th-century residences.

When is the best time to visit?

Since the palace now operates as a venue for weddings and private celebrations, public access can be limited — it's worth checking ahead whether a private event is scheduled on the day you plan to visit. Spring and early autumn tend to be the best seasons, when Asturian weather is mild enough for exploring the surrounding countryside and the grounds look their most picturesque.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors go inside the palace? Access to the interior can be restricted because the building operates commercially as a wedding and banquet venue. It's advisable to contact the venue managers before planning a visit.

How old is the building? The main structure was raised between 1619 and 1669, though the family had already owned the land since the 15th century, and further renovations continued into the 18th century.

Why does the palace only have one tower? The façade originally had two towers. One burned down in a 17th-century fire and was never rebuilt, leaving the palace with its current asymmetrical silhouette.

What is the most valuable feature inside? The chapel dedicated to the Three Wise Men, dating from 1625 and designed by Juan de Naveda, is considered the most significant architectural detail inside the palace.