A historic retreat in the heart of old Cádiz
Located on Manuel Rancés Street, a commercial axis and important business center during the era of the Spanish Indies trade, this Casa Palacio is one of the earliest buildings constructed in the block, due to the size of the plot and the arrangement of its courtyards.
The exact date of construction is unknown, but it is believed to date back to the late 17th century, making it a very old building. Much of the current structure dates back to the Baroque period (late 17th century), configured around the main courtyard up to its noble floor, covering the entire plot; it features a rear courtyard and two side courtyards, originally attached to a defensive wall.
In the early 19th century, the house belonged to Nicolás Cruz Bahamonde, the first constitutional mayor of Cádiz, a Chilean military officer who was also a merchant, writer, and art collector. In 1810, he was granted the title of Count Maule, a distinction he purchased himself. His surname may be the origin of the coat of arms that appears on the facade.