Anglona Palace

In the heart of Madrid’s La Latina district, nestled between narrow medieval streets and the lively Plaza de la Paja, lies the Palacio de Anglona, a building that represents a rare example of a 17th-century aristocratic residence still present in the city. This palace is not only a magnificent example of historical architecture, but also a silent witness to the political, social, and cultural transformations that Madrid has experienced over the centuries. The Palace was built for the family of Álvaro de Benavides, Marquis of La Romana, but owes its name to the Prince of Anglona, who became its owner in the 19th century. The building’s design reflects the sober and functional style typical of Castilian noble residences, with an austere yet elegant facade characterized by straight lines and balanced proportions. The structure is built around an inner courtyard, following the typical model of palaces of the time, which provided privacy and tranquility to its inhabitants.One of the most fascinating elements of the Palacio de Anglona is its garden, a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. This garden, designed by Javier de Winthuysen in the 18th century, still retains its neoclassical structure today, with geometric flower beds bordered by boxwood hedges and brick pathways. The central fountain, originally made of rough marble, was replaced in the 20th century with a taller and more decorative one in polished stone, giving the garden a touch of elegance. The garden is elevated on an artificial bank that levels the slope with Calle de Segovia, creating a scenic effect that surprises visitors.Historically, the Palacio de Anglona has hosted many prominent figures of the Spanish nobility and has been the site of numerous social and political events. During the height of Bourbon Madrid, the palace was a center of political and social intrigue, reflecting the importance of the Anglona family in the Spanish court. The building is a symbol of power dynamics and aristocratic life of the time, a place where politics and culture were inseparably intertwined.Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the Palacio de Anglona underwent various restorations and modifications that partially altered its original appearance, but never lost its historical charm. Restoration efforts sought to preserve the structural integrity of the building, keeping its main features unchanged. The garden, in particular, received special care, maintaining its original structure and becoming a place of refuge and tranquility in the heart of bustling Madrid. An interesting anecdote concerns the Prince of Anglona, who was an influential Spanish military and political figure. It is said that during one of his military missions, the prince brought along some rare plant specimens that were later planted in the palace garden, further enriching the botanical variety of the place. These exotic plants became a point of attraction for palace guests, who came to visit the garden not only for its beauty but also for its botanical uniqueness.