Palacio de la Marquesa de Sonora, Palace and cultural monument in San Bernardo Street, Madrid, Spain
The Palacio de la Marquesa de Sonora is a palace on San Bernardo Street that blends neoclassical and neoherreriana architectural features across its exterior and interior spaces. The building displays pronounced geometric symmetry and multi-story facades typical of late 18th-century residences.
The structure was built in 1763 under the direction of Bernardo de Grimaldo with architect José Serrano overseeing the design. This construction period coincided with Madrid's architectural modernization under Bourbon influence and preference for neoclassical styles.
The palace shapes the character of this central Madrid street with its symmetrical neoclassical facade that commands attention from passersby. Its presence reflects how grand residences once defined the status and influence of the Spanish nobility in the city.
The building sits in a lively city-center area and is easy to reach on foot or by public transport. Since it now serves governmental functions, interior access is restricted, but visitors can view the exterior facade from the street.
The palace interior was repeatedly modified to adapt the space for administrative use while the original exterior facade remained unchanged. This duality lets visitors see the historic shell while modern government operations take place inside.
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