Palace of the Barreda Bracho family (now Gil Blas Parador) · Santillana del Mar

The Palacio de los Barreda Bracho, today Parador Gil Blas, is one of the most representative buildings of Santillana del Mar. It opened its doors as a parador in 1944, taking its name from the famous literary character of René Lesage, born in the town. Built in the late seventeenth century in the mountain baroque style, its sober architecture in ashlar stone stands out for the main facade to the main square, with wrought iron balconies and the family coat of arms. It was home to powerful families and today combines history and hospitality, with a hotel, restaurant and café-terrace where you can taste the traditional sponge cake with fresh milk.