The Palace of the Constables of Castile, also known as Casa del Cordon or the Rope House, is one of the brightest landmarks of Burgos. It earned this status due to its interesting architecture and rich history. The building is located in the old part of the city at Liberty Square. Even if you plan to stay in Burgos for one day only, definitely visit this iconic local place.

In 1473, Pedro Fernandez de Velasco was appointed as the Constable of Castile. A few years later, the construction of his new residence began in Burgos. Famous Spanish architect and sculptor Juan de Colonia along with his son and apprentice Simon de Colonia were the authors of the project and supervisors of the construction project.

Initially, the building looked like a large and luxurious palace in Gothic style with a central courtyard and double arcade around its perimeter. The building that fitted perfectly into the medieval cityscape had an aura of monumentality, sophistication and harmony. Over the years, the palace has seen many owners and renovations as a result of which it lost part of its original appearance and grandeur but remained an important architectural landmark of Burgos.

Casa del Cordon had been used exclusively as a royal residence up until 1748. It witnessed many important events in the history of the city and the country. In the late 15th century, a meeting of Christopher Columbus and Castile rulers after his second research expedition to the New World took place here. During the same period, this place was a wedding venue for John II of Aragon, the son of Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, and Margaret, the daughter of Emperor Maximilian I and Mary of Burgundy. At various points, King Philip II and Juan Carlos I resided in the palace, meanwhile, during the Civil War, the former royal residence served as the headquarters of General Francisco Franco and his troops.

Today, Casa del Cordon houses the central office of Bugos bank and the cultural centre that hosts exhibitions and concerts.