The Cenador of Carlos V Regains Its Splendour with an Investment of 1.6 Million

Seville City Council has begun the comprehensive restoration of the Cenador of Carlos V, with a budget of 1.6 million euros, coinciding with the 500th anniversary of the emperor's wedding.

The restoration works of the Cenador de Carlos V, in the Real Alcázar of Seville, started on March 26 with an investment of 1,647,099.48 euros. The mayor, José Luis Sanz, visited the site on Wednesday, as part of the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the emperor's wedding to Isabel of Portugal, held in this very venue in 1526.

A Renaissance Jewel with Almohad Roots

The cenador, built on an ancient qubba almohade, combines Renaissance architecture, Mudéjar tradition, and a historic garden. Its most valuable element is the 16th-century wooden dome, considered a masterpiece of Spanish carpentry. However, the dismantling of the roof has revealed greater deterioration than expected, with serious structural issues in the perimeter gallery due to leaks and poor ventilation.

Mayor Sanz highlighted that "we could not let this anniversary pass without initiating an action that has been long awaited." The intervention, which was initially going to be limited to a single roof section, has been expanded to include all roofs to ensure the building's stability. The people of Seville will once again be able to enjoy this unique space, which will remain closed to the public during the works, expected to last for several months.

A Heritage Emergency Plan of 7 Million

The restoration of the cenador is part of an ambitious conservation plan for the Real Alcázar, which has mobilised more than seven million euros in the last three years. Completed works include the restoration of the Mercury Pond (443,000 euros), the facade of the Apeadero, the House of the Englishman, and the historic Sargas of the Gothic Hall. Ongoing projects include the comprehensive restoration of the Patio de las Doncellas, the Chapel of the Mareantes, and the renovation of the café.

The mayor emphasised that "restoring heritage often means intervening where almost no one sees it, reinforcing structures, studying each piece, and making very complex decisions." For visitors, this translates into a more accessible and better-preserved Alcázar, with new facilities such as the future Interpretation Centre in houses 7 and 8 of the Patio de Banderas.

A Before and After for the Monument

Inspections have uncovered hidden damage that has persisted for decades. The combination of moisture and lack of ventilation has caused the rotting of beams, sleepers, and pairs in the gallery structure. Technicians are now working on the replacement and reinforcement of these elements, following restoration criteria that respect the original work. The intervention also includes the protection of the trees and ornamental elements of the garden.

For the residents of Seville, the recovery of the cenador means reclaiming "one of the most unique and least known spaces" of the monumental complex, in the words of the mayor. The City Council expects the works to be completed by 2026, coinciding with the year of the fifth centenary. In the meantime, the progress of the works can be followed through the official channels of the Real Alcázar.