Casa del Almirante, Baroque palace in central Cádiz, Spain.
Casa del Almirante is a Baroque palace in central Cadiz distinguished by a striking red Genoese marble entrance and two flanking watchtowers. The interior revolves around a central courtyard enclosed by arcaded galleries supported by Tuscan columns.
The palace was built in 1685 as the residence of Admiral Diego de Barrios, a high-ranking commander of the Indies Fleet, reflecting Cadiz's maritime power during that era. The building stands as proof of the city's role as one of Europe's wealthiest and most influential ports.
The building reflects Cadiz's role in maritime commerce through its design, with observation towers that allowed residents to monitor harbor activity. These towers symbolized the family's status and their involvement in controlling shipping trade during the city's golden age.
The building sits on Plaza de San Martin and is currently undergoing renovation work that limits visitor access. Check current conditions before visiting to understand what parts of the structure are viewable or if tours are available.
During renovation, workers discovered 24 underground storage jars that hint at the goods stored and traded through the port. These vessels will be displayed through glass floor sections, allowing visitors a glimpse into the daily operations of trade at this location.
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