This emblematic 16th-century building, located in the Realejo-San Matías neighborhood, now adds the function of a cultural center to its extensive history, which includes having been a residence, hospital, and municipal seat.
Originally a 16th-century palatial house, it was donated by Juan Muñoz de Salazar to found a pilgrims' hospital in 1501. Popularly known as the Rey Soler building for housing a transport company's headquarters for much of the 20th century, it is considered one of Granada's early Renaissance palaces and is part of the Andalusian Historical Heritage.
After its acquisition by the Granada City Council in 1985, the building has housed various institutions, including the Granada Press Association and the press museum. Following a closure in 2017 and the halting of previous projects, public-private collaboration with Fundación Unicaja has enabled its renovation and opening.
The property, spanning over 1,600 square meters, is notable for its two angular towers characteristic of Granada's early modern domestic architecture. It has three floors and a semi-basement, with two main access facades, one towards Escudo del Carmen street and another towards Placeta de los Peregrinos, on San Matías street.
The facade on Escudo del Carmen displays a proto-Renaissance style with Gothic elements, while the one on San Matías incorporates Mannerist details. Inside, a porticoed courtyard with galleries and Tuscan columns from Sierra Elvira preserves original parts despite renovations.
