The Palacio de la Magdalena is situated on the vast Magdelana Peninsula, on the edge of the city, and has become somewhat of a symbol of Santander. Built between 1908 and 1912, it’s one of the best examples of the eclectic style of architecture in the whole of northern Spain.

The palace has enjoyed a long and interesting history throughout its existence right up to the present day. It was originally built as a home for the Spanish Royal Family, as a place to spend their vacations away from the hustle and bustle of Madrid. The palace was built between 1909 and 1911 and used by the royal family. However, after the start of the Spanish Civil War in 1936, when King Alfonso XIII went into hiding, the site became used more to house prisoners of war. The caballerizas horse stables were turned into a POW camp. A far cry from today where they have been converted into bedrooms and used by students attending the local university.

In recent times the exterior of the palace has been used for the filming of a TV series; 'El Gran Hote'l. The series was shown on Spanish TV from 2011 to 2013 and all three seasons are currently available on Netflix

The palace is also used by the local university, Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo, with courses taking place there since 1932. Some students attend classes at the palace while the annual immersive English course uses the former horse stables as accommodation.

More Info: justtravellingthrough.com