Palacio de la Cotilla

Palacio de la Cotilla is a Renaissance building in Guadalajara with a two-story brick facade and white limestone entrance, decorated with a coat of arms and sturdy window bars. Inside, multiple rooms connect around a central courtyard with limestone columns, along with underground galleries and basement spaces.

The building was constructed in the early 17th century on land belonging to the Cotilla family and underwent major renovations in 1892 under architect Manuel Medrano de Miguel. This renovation transformed the structure into its current appearance and ensured its preservation to the present day.

The palace now houses a municipal arts school and serves as a venue for theater performances and musical events. Local artists and students regularly use the spaces for creative activities and cultural gatherings.

The building is easily reached from the city center and its interior spaces are well lit and clearly organized. Visitors should keep in mind that some areas can feel tight and the underground sections deserve careful attention when exploring.

A notable feature is the tea room, whose walls are decorated with hand-painted wallpaper depicting medieval Chinese scenes. This decorative element reflects the classical painting style of the Qing dynasty and creates a surprising contrast with the European Renaissance design of the building.