Palacio de San Esteban

The Palacio de San Esteban is a Renaissance palace in Murcia featuring two connected courtyards with marble columns and semi-circular arches that reflect strong Italian Renaissance influences. The building now houses the headquarters of the Presidency of the Region of Murcia and contains exhibition spaces within its former church.

Construction began in 1555 as a Jesuit school funded by Bishop Esteban de Almeyda, with the main structure completed in 1557 and the church in 1569. The building has evolved from its religious origins to serve different administrative functions over the centuries.

The palace served as a seminary where regional scholars studied for generations, including the renowned sculptor Francisco Salzillo and writer Francisco Cascales. This educational legacy shaped how locals understand the building's role in their community.

The building is located in a central part of Murcia and is easily accessible on foot, with public areas open during regular hours. Keep in mind that some sections may be restricted since the palace still functions as an administrative center.

Archaeological excavations in 2009 revealed a 12th-century Arab neighborhood beneath the palace gardens, showing that this location had a long settlement history. This layer demonstrates the site was inhabited centuries before its Renaissance transformation.