Overview

This stately house is the finest example of non-religious Gothic architecture in Spain. It's just two minutes from the Plaza Mayor. It's named after the shells, or "conchas," that decorate the façade. These were added to celebrate the marriage of Rodrigo Maldonado's son. Maldonado was a professor at the university and he owned the building. Construction began in 1493, in a style that combined Spanish and Flemish Gothic features with early Renaissance motifs. A tourist information office, a public library and a conference and exhibition hall are all now housed here. Admission is free.