Casita del Príncipe, Royal pleasure house in El Pardo, Spain.
Casita del Príncipe is a neoclassical building in El Pardo with three protruding sections connected by two recessed bodies constructed in granite and brick. The structure now functions as a museum displaying original furnishings and interior decorations from its time of creation.
Juan de Villanueva designed the building in 1784 for Charles, Prince of Asturias, seeking a retreat from the formal conventions of the Royal Palace. The project marked a turning point in Villanueva's career and influenced his approach to later architectural commissions.
The rooms display works by major artists that reflect the refined taste of the royal court and remain on view today. These pieces give a sense of the artistic sophistication that defined this private royal retreat.
Access is only by guided tour through Patrimonio Nacional, requiring advance reservation to visit. It is helpful to check opening conditions in advance as hours may be limited and availability varies.
The building served as a testing ground for Villanueva's techniques that appeared in later, more famous works. This early exploration of materials and design made it an overlooked turning point in Spanish architectural development.
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