Casa de las Conchas

Casa de las Conchas is a late-15th-century urban palace on Calle Compania in Salamanca's historic centre. Its best-known feature is the facade covered with more than 300 carved shells, an emblem associated with the Order of Santiago. The building combines late Gothic, Renaissance, Mudejar, and Isabelline details, including Gothic ironwork, coats of arms, and an internal courtyard with mixed-line arches. Construction began near the end of the 15th century, when Salamanca's noble families were reshaping the streets around the university and cathedral quarter.

The building now houses Salamanca's state public library. Visitors generally come to see the exterior and enter the courtyard rather than tour a furnished historic residence. Access is free, but library operations, holidays, conservation work, or special events can affect which areas are open. The palace stands opposite La Clerecia and close to the University of Salamanca, so it fits naturally into a walking route through the compact old city. Check the current regional tourism listing before visiting for the latest schedule and access conditions.