Casa Raimundo, Monroyo

Strategically located in the urban centre of Monroyo, at Calle La Llana, 3, Casa Raimundo stands at the junction with the plaza de Josa. This impressive noble house conceals behind its walls legends and a rich history.

Local oral tradition holds that Casa Raimundo was the residence of the commander of the Order of Calatrava. It is said that it was built using stones recovered from the castle after it burned down, a theory seemingly confirmed by the majesty of its portals and the detailed stone gargoyles that adorn its roof. It is even whispered that the door that today opens onto Calle Llana was, at the time, the main entrance to the old castle of Monroyo.

The building, two storeys high and flanked by neighbouring structures, displays a blend of materials. Although it may originally have used ashlar masonry, today much of its main structure is built in rubble masonry where the original ashlar has given way.

On the main floor, the windows with their moulded jambs and sills stand out. A central feature of the facade is the balcony, with an equally moulded stone projection and elegant ironwork that adds character to the whole. The main facade is defined by an imposing portal with a round arch, whose large voussoirs, narrow and slightly rusticated, testify to its noble character.

To the right of this facade, another round arch can be seen which, although today blocked by a relieving arch, still allows the remains of a moulded sill of a former opening to be appreciated, revealing layers of its constructive history.