House of the Ovando (Caceres)

Built during the 15th century, the House of the Ovando is a Renaissance building located inside the monumental enclosure and built on the foundations of an old mansion on which work began in the 15th century and stopped under orders from the Catholic Monarchs in 1480.

Its current appearance is completely different from that of the original house, as it underwent a renovation in 1519 and then a deeper and more significant one in the 18th century. Thus, the style of its façade and many other ornamental details were changed.

The original design had two towers that flanked the main façade but only one was finished. This tower is the best preserved of the original façade, as much of it remains unchanged. Its beautiful window decorated with an ogee arch makes it look majestic and slender.

This building is considered one of the best examples of palatial architecture in Caceres throughout the 15th and 16th centuries. Of note are the detail of the ironwork that can be seen in its windows and also its beautiful doorway with a stone arch.

The beauty and patrimonial value of the House of the Ovando is so great that it received the declaration of Spanish Historical Heritage. Since then, it has become one of the most visited historical monuments in Caceres.