Palacio de la Lonja

The Palacio de la Lonja in Zaragoza is an important example of Aragonese Renaissance architecture, built in the first half of the 16th century. Originally designed as a civic trading hall, the building now houses an exhibition hall run by the city council. Construction began in 1541 on the initiative of the city council and under the patronage of Archbishop Hernando de Aragón. The architect Juan de Sariñena drew up the design, which is considered the first building in this region executed entirely in the Renaissance style. It combines Italian influences from the Florentine Quattrocento with local Mudéjar elements. After the architect's death, the planned central tower was abandoned and replaced with a simple gable roof, and the building was officially completed in 1551.

The architecture impresses with its rectangular floor plan and a facade divided into three levels, even though the interior consists of just one tall story. Built of brick, a material highly prized in the Aragonese tradition, the exterior features an elegant gallery of paired round arches. These arches frame windows that are now fitted with alabaster panes, while the original stained-glass windows date from before the 18th century. Decorative elements such as colorfully painted tile medallions with portraits and a broad, carved wooden ridge beam shape its appearance. The lower levels have large doors with stepped arches that recall the architectural forms of the Mudéjar style.

Inside, a spacious hall dominates, supported by eight columns whose shafts are decorated with a distinctive ring at two-thirds of their height. These so-called Aragonese Ionic columns give the space classical proportions. The ceiling consists of fifteen star-shaped ribbed vaults that, despite their Renaissance look, still show Gothic structural features. The walls are decorated with sculptural reliefs, painted keystones, and an inscription in Gothic lettering that refers to the history of the city. You will also find the coat of arms of Charles V with the Golden Fleece, as well as the city coat of arms of Zaragoza. Between the roof truss and the vaulting is a former armory area, which was reached by an exterior staircase and is documented in historical views of the city as a small tower structure.