Journey back to the early 19th century to pick up insights into the establishment of Spain's first constitution at this fascinating history museum.
Browse a rich inventory of artifacts and documents from the 18th and 19th centuries at the Cortes Museum (Cadiz Court Museum). This old town attraction is housed in a neoclassical-inspired building and is dedicated to the Spanish Constitution of 1812, the first constitution in the history of Spain.
Start in the rooms on the first floor and peruse artifacts related to the siege of the city by Napoleonic troops between 1810 and 1812. Among the items are flags, weapons and medals. The constitution was drawn up at this time and enacted after the French were defeated and Spain was liberated from French occupation.
Study the oil paintings of scientists, military figures and other prominent people of 19th-century Cadiz. Pause by the staircase that leads to the first floor to admire the stained-glass window, an allegorical depiction of the Swearing of the Constitution of 1812 by representatives of the nation.
While on the first floor, look over the museum’s showpiece, a 1/250 scale mahogany and ivory model of the city. It was created in the 18th century by the order of King Carlos III and gives an idea of how Cadiz appeared at that time. In the same room is a large canvas by Salvador Viniegra that was painted between 1910 and 1912 and depicts the official announcement of the 1812 Constitution.
Go to this floor’s main hall which is dedicated to the defense of Cadiz during the Peninsular War between Napoleon's empire and Spain. Look at weapons, projectiles, a flag and portraits of members of the Cadiz High Board of Defense. Other museum highlights include oil paintings of city views and facsimile maps of buildings and fortifications from the period.
The Cortes Museum is located in the heart of the old town of Cadiz next to the Oratory of San Felipe Neri, a 18th-century temple. Park in nearby paid underground car parks or arrive by bus. The museum is open every day except Mondays and admission is free.
While in this area, consider visiting the nearby Torre Tavira, a tower with an observation deck that offers panoramic city views.
