Featured Snippet
The Grutesco Gallery is one of the Alcázar’s most distinctive architectural features, blending medieval foundations with Baroque creativity. Originally an Almohad defensive wall, it was remodeled in the early 17th century by architect Vermondo Resta, who added arches, frescoes, and stone textures to imitate a natural cliff—creating the “grutesco” effect. The gallery frames the Mercury Pond and runs along the Gardens of the Dames, offering shade below and stunning panoramas above. Its dramatic design reflects the evolving tastes of the Spanish monarchy and demonstrates how the Alcázar continually reinvented itself across centuries.
Extended version
A 160-meter-long mirador created from an ancient wall—and transformed over centuries
The Grutesco Gallery is one of the most unusual architectural features of the Alcázar. What looks like a natural rocky cliff is actually an artistic transformation of an Almohad-era defensive wall, reimagined in 1612 by architect Vermondo Resta. He covered the wall with rough stones, faux grottoes, and painted frescoes, creating a theatrical Renaissance backdrop for the gardens.
The gallery begins at the Mercury Pond, with elegant arches decorated with fresco paintings inspired by classical mythology. These paintings once added vibrant color to the gardens—many still visible today if you look closely. Beyond the arches, the structure becomes a long porticoed walkway filled with alcoves, shadows, and strange textures. It was designed to evoke the grottos popular in Italian Renaissance villas.
One of its greatest pleasures is the upper walkway, open to visitors. From here, you enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the gardens—the citrus trees, fountains, pavilions, and geometric paths unfolding below like a living tapestry.
At the base of the gallery, you’ll find a type of vegetation that confuses many visitors. What looks like ivy or undergrowth is actually a row of orange trees, carefully pruned to create a low, continuous hedge—one of the gardens’ most charming curiosities.
Our tour includes this viewpoint and explains how the gallery transformed the atmosphere of the gardens. With audio headsets, you enjoy the story without missing a word.
See the Alcázar gardens from one of their most dramatic viewpoints. Book-now with 13% OFF and save 8,14€
mini FAQ
- What does “Grutesco” mean?
A style mimicking natural rock formations.
- Who redesigned the wall?
Architect Vermondo Resta in the 17th century.
- Can visitors access the gallery?
Yes, the upper walkway is visitable.