At the highest point of the town of lerma is found the ducal palace. it was constructed on the site of a 15th c. castle and built according to architect francisco de mora's plans in successive phases between 1601 and 1617. francisco gA?A³mez de sandoval y rojas, first duke of lerma, ordered the castle built as a place of lodging, rest an general enjoyment for king felipe iii. this building features a central courtyard surrounded by columned arcades in altenating sections: the first has 20 tuscan columns with semi-circular arches, and the second has 20 ionic columns. the palace was restored and converted into a parador rooms that have a capacity of 133 persons. aside from the usual hotel services such as restaurant and convention rooms, the parador is also equipped with internet access.