Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The Palacio Episcopal was commissioned by Bishop José Franquis Lasso de Castilla in the 1700s.

2. 2

   The facade is famous for its 'retablo' style decoration, which mimics the design of a church altar on the exterior wall.

3. 3

   The building incorporates an inner courtyard that reflects the traditional Andalusian aristocratic layout.

4. 4

   It was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Property of Cultural Interest) in 1991.

5. 5

   The interior contains sections that were historically reserved for the private living quarters of the Malaga Bishops.

Overview

The Centro Cultural Fundación Unicaja de Málaga is housed in the 18th-century Palacio Episcopal, a landmark example of Spanish Baroque civil architecture. It serves as a primary exhibition space for the Unicaja Foundation, rotating through fine art, photography, and archaeological displays. The building itself is notable for its polychrome facade, which features decorative brickwork and stone carvings characteristic of the period. Visitors traverse multiple levels that preserve original architectural elements while housing modern gallery installations. It functions as both a heritage site and a contemporary cultural hub within the historic district. The foundation uses the space to foster regional artistic development through diverse, multi-disciplinary exhibitions.

Insider tips

• Check the official website ahead of your visit to see which temporary exhibition is currently installed.

• Visit the courtyard to observe the architectural details that are often overlooked by visitors heading straight to the galleries.

• Combine your visit with the nearby Malaga Cathedral, as the palace was designed to be aesthetically linked to it.