Hacienda de Su Eminencia: Seville’s Hidden Country Palace

The Hacienda de Su Eminencia, in Palmete beside the SE-30 motorway and surrounded by a park, is a hidden treasure. Its history is closely linked to Cardinal Solís, who gave it its name and transformed it into an impressive country palace in the mid-18th century. The property also lent its name to the neighbourhood and road, serving as the Cardinal’s refuge from the city’s bustle. Originally an agricultural estate growing olives and citrus fruit, it became a grand residence combining country life with monumental architecture.

The building we see reflects that transformation, probably designed by Pedro de Silva, the archdiocese’s chief master of works, or another architect working at Seville Cathedral. No surviving document confirms the attribution precisely. What is known is that builders working on the Cathedral took part in its construction, contributing considerable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Cardinal Solís invested so heavily in the property that he ended up ruined, but he left a lasting mark on its history. After his death, the estate passed to the Cathedral Chapter, and following the Mendizábal confiscations, to the State. It was later leased to aristocratic families such as the Duke of the Infantado, before passing into private hands. Its last resident owner was the Marchioness of Tábara, who lived there until her death in 1992.

This imposing building has two storeys, with terraces and viewpoints overlooking the Seville countryside. Its walls feature Doric and Ionic pilasters, while the rooftop’s iron railings add to its aristocratic character. The ground floor held reception rooms, kitchens, storerooms and a chapel. The main staircase led to the principal floor, with formal rooms and private quarters.

Among its rooms, the grand ballroom stands out: a solemn space covered by a vault topped with a small dome and lantern. Arches and windows open the room towards the countryside, bringing in views of the surrounding landscape and a garden retaining palm and orange trees.

The hacienda was more than a place of leisure and retreat. Beside the main residence stood agricultural buildings: workers’ homes, stores, stables and henhouses. A wall enclosed the estate, with an imposing wooden gateway decorated with the Cardinal’s coat of arms.

The estate originated in the 14th century as extensive land devoted to olives and citrus fruit, stretching towards places such as Hacienda de Amate and Puente de la Piedra. It later housed Fundación Forja XXI until that organisation failed.

Declared a Bien de Interés Cultural, a protected heritage asset, Hacienda de Su Eminencia remains an increasingly overlooked reminder of old Seville’s charm, waiting for its history to be rediscovered.

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