Palacio de los Concejos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Palacio de los Consejos |
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| Location | Madrid, Spain |
| Official name: Palacio de los Consejos | |
| Type | Non-movable |
| Criteria | Monument |
| Designated | 1982 |
| Reference no. | RI-51-0004746 |
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The Palace of the Councils (also known as the Palace of the Duke of Uceda) is a historic building in central Madrid, Spain. It was built a long time ago, in the 1600s. You can find it on Calle Mayor, right near Calle Bailén Street. This beautiful palace shows off the Spanish baroque style of architecture.
A Grand Design
This impressive palace was ordered by Cristóbal Gómez de Sandoval-Rojas, who was the first Duke of Uceda. He was a very powerful person, acting as a main advisor to King Philip III of Spain. The palace was designed by Francisco de Mora. However, the actual building work was managed by Juan Gómez de Mora. Captain Alonso Turrillo carried out the construction. The work took place from 1608 to 1613. The palace stands near the Church of Santa María de la Almudena.
From Duke's Home to Royal Property
When the palace was first built, it was decorated with the family symbols of the Sandoval family. These symbols were flanked by lions. People thought the palace looked too grand for a nobleman. Later, the Duke of Uceda lost his powerful position. Because of this, the palace became property of the Royal family. It became the home of the queen mother, Mariana of Austria. She was the mother of King Charles II of Spain. Queen Mariana lived there until she passed away on May 16, 1696.
The Palace of the Councils
In 1701, a new king, Philip V of Spain, arrived in Madrid. He decided to move many of the royal offices, or "councils," from the old Real Alcázar of Madrid palace to the Duke of Uceda's palace. From that time on, the building became known as the Palace of the Councils. The most important council, however, stayed in the main royal palace. Later, in the 1800s, the Spanish Council of State and the Capitanía General (a military command center) also moved into the building.
See also
