Palacete de los Ocharan

The Palacete de los Ocharan, also known in its original name as Palacio de Ocharan, is an architectural gem nestled in the charming town of Castro Urdiales, in the region of Cantabria, Spain. This magnificent estate, designed by the renowned architect Eladio Laredo, was commissioned by Luis de Ocharan, a notable writer, photographer, and businessman from Bilbao. The Palacete de los Ocharan is not just a single building but a complex of structures that together form one of the most significant monuments in this picturesque coastal town.

The History of Palacete de los Ocharan

Constructed in 1901, the Palacete de los Ocharan was the first element of a series of architectural works that Luis de Ocharan envisioned for his estate. Luis de Ocharan was a man of many talents and interests. His passion for photography earned him a place among the best pictorialists of his time, and his success in various fields allowed him to embark on such an ambitious project. The palacete was strategically built near the port of Castro Urdiales, allowing Ocharan to keep a close eye on the comings and goings of his ships, which were essential to his business ventures in the mining industry.

In 1914, a neo-Gothic castle was added to the estate, complete with a Mudejar-style crenellated wall and a small observatory reflecting Ocharan's interest in astronomy. This eclectic mix of architectural styles, set amidst lush gardens with over fifty species of trees, created a unique and enchanting environment. The estate also included a private chapel and a house for the caretakers, ensuring that the property was well-maintained and secure.

Architectural Marvels

The Palacete de los Ocharan is a stunning example of eclectic architecture, characterized by its pink and white marble facade adorned with Greek and Italian elements. The porticoed facade is framed by ten Ionic columns arranged in double rows, creating the appearance of a small temple. A lateral double staircase adds to the grandeur of the entrance. The facade is further embellished with ceramic tiles designed by Daniel Zuloaga, a renowned painter and ceramist known for his work on prominent buildings such as the Palacio de Cristal in Retiro Park and the Hospital de Maudes in Madrid.

The main facade of the palacete rests on a masonry base, featuring five openings with spiderweb-like iron grilles. The roof is a hipped design, sloping on all four sides, and is crowned by a classic square tower with acroteria at the corners and floral motifs as decoration. This combination of elements creates a visually striking and harmonious structure that captures the imagination of all who visit.

The Neo-Gothic Castle and Observatory

Adjacent to the palacete, the neo-Gothic castle stands as a testament to Eladio Laredo's architectural prowess. The castle is surrounded by a Mudejar-inspired crenellated wall, featuring several battlemented towers and horseshoe-arched openings. Inside the castle, a small observatory was built to cater to Luis de Ocharan's fascination with the stars. The observatory's oriental design adds an exotic touch to the overall aesthetic of the estate.

The castle and observatory are situated near the now-defunct Castro-Traslaviña railway line, surrounded by exotic vegetation that enhances the mystical ambiance of the estate. The combination of neo-Gothic and Mudejar elements creates a captivating and unique architectural ensemble that is both historically significant and visually stunning.

The Gardens of Palacete de los Ocharan

The extensive gardens surrounding the Palacete de los Ocharan are a botanical wonder, featuring a diverse array of over fifty tree species. Among the notable trees are two coconut palms, sequoias, lindens, acacias, laurels, and two Ginkgo biloba trees. The Ginkgo biloba, also known as the tree of hope, is native to Japan and is renowned for its resilience. After the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, a Ginkgo biloba tree located one kilometer from the explosion site began to sprout new leaves, symbolizing hope and renewal amid devastation. These gardens, meticulously landscaped to create a unique ecosystem, provide a serene and enchanting backdrop to the architectural marvels of the estate.

Modern History and Public Access

In the 1970s, the estate came under the ownership of Miguel de la Vía, a prominent businessman known for his restoration and public opening of the Torre Loizaga in Galdames, Biscay. De la Vía's collection of Rolls-Royce vehicles, housed in Torre Loizaga, is considered one of the finest in Europe. In 2000, the estate officially became a museum and joined the European Route of Industrial Heritage (ERIH).

In 2015, a project was launched to organize guided tours of the Palacete de los Ocharan, allowing students from local schools to explore and learn about this important cultural landmark. The tours, led by historians and local experts, provide valuable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the estate.

The Palacete de los Ocharan is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Castro Urdiales. Its walls and gardens tell stories of a bygone era, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur and beauty of this remarkable estate. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Palacete de los Ocharan offers a captivating and unforgettable experience.