The Casa de las Conchas is one of the most beautiful and striking places in Salamanca . It is located in the center of the city and is a spectacular Gothic-style mansion that is named for the more than 300 shells that it has embedded in its facade. Without a doubt, a place that is worth seeing as it is very original. Currently it is the Public Library and several cafeterias, and its access is free.
Its construction began in 1943 by order of Rodrigo Maldonado de Talavera, who was a Knight of the Order of Santiago and a member of the Royal Council of Castile. At first, it was built so that the pilgrims who made the Camino de Santiago could stay there and thus the city of Salamanca would be an important part of the pilgrim routes.
Must visit
The Casa de las Conchas is a must for everyone who travels to Salamanca, especially for pilgrims , who see this building as one of the many holy places they find on their way to the Cathedral of Santiago, the end point of their routes. It is visited especially by pilgrims who follow any of the routes that start from the south of the Spanish peninsula.
History
In the 18th century, the building underwent a major remodeling as many cracks appeared, which is why there are some parts that do not have embedded shells. Above the front door is the Maldonado family coat of arms , which also appears on the walls and around the windows. Inside there is a spectacular two-story patio with various pillars and columns.