Sumptuous carvings and ornate columns adorn the galleries of this magnificent courtyard, which houses an intriguing private collection of paintings.
Peruse a collection of artworks in the Patio de la Infanta, a Renaissance-era courtyard within the headquarters of the Ibercaja Bank. Formerly located within a grand palace residence, the courtyard dates back to 1550 and its intricate stonemasonry is remarkably intact. Stroll around the courtyard and learn about its history and examine the exhibitions and displays on the patio walls.
The Patio de la Infanta’s fascinating history dates back to the mid-16th century, when it was built as a crowning feature of the Palace of Zaporta. Razed by fire in 1905, the palace was almost completely destroyed. Untouched by the flames, the inner courtyard was removed and traded as an antique relic until it was finally installed in the Ibercaja Bank building in 1980. Wander around the patio and imagine how it would have looked in a grand Aragonese palace.
Admire the courtyard’s ornate construction, which is comprised of a lower and upper level. Elaborately carved columns support the upper gallery and feature a stunning array of plateresque (16th-century Spanish Baroque) designs. You’ll see human figures carved into the columns, as well as medallions with portraits of Roman emperors and religious leaders. Gaze up at the upper level to see a series of semicircular arches and a balcony decorated with gorgeous reliefs. Look closely to see the resemblance of the carvings to Guadalajara’s Palacio de los Duques del Infantado.
Continue exploring to discover the Ibercaja Bank’s collection of artworks, which includes a series of works by Goya. Study the beautifully painted portraits and scenes, as well as sketches produced by the artist as preparation for significant works. You’ll see a rotating display of paintings from the collection, as well as temporary exhibitions.
The Patio de la Infanta is within the modern Ibercaja Bank building, which is located in Basilio Paraíso Square. The building is 0.4 miles (0.6 kilometers) south of the Plaza de España and is easy to reach on foot from Zaragoza’s historic district. The courtyard is open daily and free to visit, but note that it closes for a few hours over the lunch period.
