
Casas de Paredes (Houses of Paredes), La Coruna
The Casas de Paredes is a remarkable architectural complex, embodying the neoclassical style that flourished in northern Galicia from 1778 onward. This ambitious project was initiated by Pedro MartÃn Cermeño y GarcÃa de Paredes, the Captain General of Galicia, and a prominent engineer and architect. The construction of the Casas de Paredes aimed to create an imposing maritime facade that would enhance the city’s strategic and commercial presence. Influenced by the neoclassical designs introduced by military engineers in Galicia, particularly in the city of Ferrol, these buildings reflect a rationalist aesthetic with a disciplined sense of symmetry and elegance.
The neoclassical movement in Galicia, although initially developed in Santiago de Compostela by architect Domingo Antonio Lois Montegudo, gained significant momentum through military engineers stationed in the region as part of the Bourbon reformist projects. These projects included the construction of fortifications, road networks, and the arsenal of Ferrol, which served both defensive and economic purposes. Engineers like Carlos Lemaur, who designed the Rajoy Palace in Santiago de Compostela, and Julián Sánchez Bort, known for his work on the new facade of Lugo Cathedral and the San Julián Co-Cathedral in Ferrol, played crucial roles in spreading neoclassical ideals. The Casas de Paredes is a testament to this influence, showcasing structured porticoed ground floors, continuous balconies, and triangular decorative motifs that characterize its facades.
Throughout its history, the Casas de Paredes has served various purposes, reflecting its central role in the city's political and commercial life. Originally conceived as residential and administrative buildings, its ground floors have long been hubs for commerce. Notably, the complex once housed the headquarters of the Real Club Deportivo de La Coruña football team, further cementing its place in the city's legacy. A significant renovation in 2018 transformed the space into a vibrant leisure and hospitality center, breathing new life into its historic walls.
The neoclassical movement in Galicia, although initially developed in Santiago de Compostela by architect Domingo Antonio Lois Montegudo, gained significant momentum through military engineers stationed in the region as part of the Bourbon reformist projects. These projects included the construction of fortifications, road networks, and the arsenal of Ferrol, which served both defensive and economic purposes. Engineers like Carlos Lemaur, who designed the Rajoy Palace in Santiago de Compostela, and Julián Sánchez Bort, known for his work on the new facade of Lugo Cathedral and the San Julián Co-Cathedral in Ferrol, played crucial roles in spreading neoclassical ideals. The Casas de Paredes is a testament to this influence, showcasing structured porticoed ground floors, continuous balconies, and triangular decorative motifs that characterize its facades.
Throughout its history, the Casas de Paredes has served various purposes, reflecting its central role in the city's political and commercial life. Originally conceived as residential and administrative buildings, its ground floors have long been hubs for commerce. Notably, the complex once housed the headquarters of the Real Club Deportivo de La Coruña football team, further cementing its place in the city's legacy. A significant renovation in 2018 transformed the space into a vibrant leisure and hospitality center, breathing new life into its historic walls.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in La Coruna. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Casas de Paredes (Houses of Paredes) on Map
Sight Name: Casas de Paredes (Houses of Paredes)
Sight Location: La Coruna, Spain (See walking tours in La Coruna)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: La Coruna, Spain (See walking tours in La Coruna)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in La Coruna, Spain
Create Your Own Walk in La Coruna
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La Coruna Introduction Walking Tour
A coastal city in Spain’s autonomous region of Galicia, La Coruña carries a layered history shaped by its connection to the sea, strategic position, and strong regional identity. With elegant architecture, sweeping ocean views, and golden beaches, the city delivers a full sensory experience, with moments of beauty around every corner.
Perched on a rocky headland along the Atlantic, the area... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles
Perched on a rocky headland along the Atlantic, the area... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.9 Km or 2.4 Miles