Palacio de los Vilches

Palacio de los Vilches stands in the heart of Jaén, Andalusia, on Plaza del Deán Mazas, just behind Plaza de la Constitución (also known locally as Plaza de las Palmeras).

When was the palace built?

The building dates back to the 16th century and is linked to the Vilches family, specifically to Cristóbal Vilches Coello, who is credited with commissioning it. It occupies part of what used to be the Plaza del Mercado, Jaén's main square for centuries. Today the palace is the only remaining trace of that vanished square, most of which disappeared as the city was rebuilt over time.

How has the building been used over the centuries?

Its role has shifted more than once: a noble family residence first, then a travelers' inn, and later a hotel and a hostel. Since 1984 it has housed a bank branch, which remains its current use.

What makes the façade distinctive?

The standout feature is the corner façade, cutting diagonally across the junction of two streets, formed by six semicircular arches resting on eight Doric columns. Busts of figures from classical antiquity fill the spaces between the arches, a decorative touch typical of Renaissance civil architecture in Spain. Despite repeated renovations inside, parts of the interior still show the same Renaissance character visible on the exterior.

Is the palace a protected monument?

Yes. A request to protect it as a Bien de Interés Cultural was first filed in 1980, but the process stalled for decades. It was finally resolved in January 2010, when the Andalusian regional government, the Junta de Andalucía, formally listed Palacio de los Vilches in the General Catalogue of Andalusian Historical Heritage under the Monument category (Decreto 10/2010, dated 12 January).

Why does the palace matter to Jaén's history?

The importance of Palacio de los Vilches goes beyond its architecture. The building is the last physical link to the Plaza del Mercado, which for most of the city's history served as its main commercial and social hub. Once the old square's surrounding buildings gave way to later urban redevelopment, the palace remained the only structure from that era still standing on its original site. For that reason, locals treat it less as a standalone architectural showpiece and more as a reference point for the history of the city centre itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Palacio de los Vilches located? In central Jaén, on Plaza del Deán Mazas, right behind Plaza de la Constitución.

Who built the palace? Its construction is attributed to the Vilches family, particularly to Cristóbal Vilches Coello, who initiated the building in the 16th century.

Can visitors go inside? The building currently operates as a bank branch, so access is limited to banking hours and its commercial function — it isn't set up as a museum open for general visits.

When did it receive official heritage protection? In January 2010, when the Junta de Andalucía listed it as a Bien de Interés Cultural with Monument status, decades after the protection request was first filed in 1980.