To spot the Payment Management Palace of the Duke of the Park, look ahead for an imposing, cream-colored building with a wide, elegant façade. What gives it away instantly are the tall black shutters on the upper windows, lined up like soldiers on parade. Notice the strong pillars and detailed stonework along the ground-those vertical lines and sturdy corners will help you recognize the palace as you approach from the plaza.
Take a moment here and imagine yourself stepping into the bustling Oviedo of the early 1700s. This was a palace built for real nobles-dukes and marquises who wanted to show everyone just how important they were. The Palace of the Duke of the Park, also called Palacio del Fontán, rises up in classic baroque style and was the work of a master architect, Francisco de la Riva. If this palace looks familiar, it’s because his designs inspired other grand mansions around town, like the Palacio de Camposagrado.
Everything here is about making a statement! The palace has a grand, square footprint, with a lush garden tucked away inside-a secret space made for quiet strolls, or maybe for noble gossip. Don’t miss the main entrance: those thick, fluted columns frame a doorway so grand, you half-expect a march of musicians to come bursting out. The balconies above look ready for a dramatic royal wave, maybe even the odd surprise serenade from an admirer below-though in these days, I’d keep the love songs quiet.
Peer up and notice the beautifully carved stones showing off the family crests. Those you see now are actually replacements from 1901, but don’t worry-they're no less grand. And if you wander behind, the palace has a hidden courtyard, with arched walkways held up by sturdy columns.
Here’s a quirky detail for you-take a close look at the stable building angled next to the palace. Its doorway is carved with crests and flanked by heads of horses and jockeys. Clearly, the owners wanted everyone to know they had fine tastes and maybe even finer horses!
So, as you stand here, picture the carriages coming and going, nobles in silk shoes, and the endless stories these old stones could tell-some historic, some just plain gossip. Now, ready to carry on to our next stop? Or would you rather try giving your most noble royal wave from the balcony? Just don’t let anyone catch you-it’s tougher to look dignified with pigeons as your audience!
