Augustin Zulueta Palace facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Augustin Zulueta Palace |
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| Native name Spanish: Palacio Augustín Zulueta |
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| Location | Vitoria, Spain |
| Built | 1912 |
| Architect | Julián Apraiz and Javier Luque |
| Architectural style(s) | Historicist |
| Governing body | Regional Council of Álava |
| Official name: Palacio Augustin | |
| Type | Non-movable |
| Criteria | Monument |
| Designated | 1962 |
| Reference no. | RI-51-0001300 |
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The Augustin Zulueta Palace (which in Spanish is called Palacio Augustín Zulueta) is a beautiful old building located in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Álava, Spain. You can find it on Fray Francisco promenade.
This palace was built in 1912 by two famous architects, Julián de Apraiz and Javier Luque. They also designed the New Cathedral in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The palace was made for a wealthy couple, Elvira Zulueta and Ricardo de Augustin, who wanted a grand home.
Today, the palace is home to the Museum of Fine Arts of Álava. This museum shows off Spanish art from the 1600s to the 1900s. It also has a special collection of Basque art from 1850 to 1950. In 1962, the palace was recognized as an important cultural landmark.
Contents
History of the Palace
How the Palace Began
In 1912, Elvira Zulueta and Ricardo de Augustin started building their private home. Elvira came from a rich family. After she married Ricardo in 1905, they decided to build their own palace. They chose a fancy area of Vitoria-Gasteiz for their new home.
The couple picked Javier Luque and Julián de Apraiz to design the palace. These architects were very well-known in the city. They had just won a big competition to help restore the New Cathedral of Vitoria.
The palace was mostly finished by 1916, and Elvira and Ricardo moved in. Sadly, Elvira passed away in 1917, and Ricardo later left the city. Since they didn't have children, the palace eventually went to the Catholic Church. However, Ricardo made an agreement in 1924 to keep owning the palace.
Becoming a Museum
In 1941, the local government of Álava bought the Augustin Zulueta Palace. They wanted to turn it into the Museum of Fine Art. The idea was to have a place to keep important art and historical items.
The museum brought together many art collections. These included religious art from the Vitoria Diocese, paintings from the Museo del Prado, and works from local artists. Some private citizens also donated their art.
In the 1960s, a new agreement was made to show the works of artist Fernando de Amárica at the palace. To make space, a new section was added to the building in 1965. This new part was designed by Jesús Guinea.
Later, in 1975, the museum started collecting contemporary art. This collection grew a lot over the years. It became one of the most complete collections of its kind in Spain.
Today, the palace still houses the Fine Art Museum. It has three main parts: the original palace, the section added in the 1960s, and a newer entrance building.
Palace Design
The Augustin Zulueta Palace is a great example of "historicist architecture." This means it mixes different old styles and ideas. The palace has a square shape and is surrounded by a large garden.
The building has a basement and three main floors. There are also two smaller sections that stick out. One is at the front, and the other is on the left side. The front part has a covered entrance with arches. The left side has a staircase inside.
Added Sections
The first added section was designed by Jesús Guinea. This part of the museum connects to the original building through stairs. It has two floors. Its outside looks similar to the palace, but it's more simple. Because of its plain style and the plants around it, this addition blends in well.
Keeping it New
The palace has been updated several times over the years. These updates always made sure to keep the original look of the building. For example, in 2000, the entrance was made easier for people using wheelchairs. Before, you had to climb ten steps to get inside.
Later, a new entrance building was added. This part is made of glass and wood. It serves as the main entrance to the museum today.
See Also
In Spanish: Palacio de Augustín-Zulueta para niños
