Despite its competitors, Seville remains the beating heart and cultural soul of Spanish Andalusia. Capturing the quintessential image most people have of Spain, the city abounds with flamenco posters, castanets, and bullfighting to fulfill even the deepest Iberian fantasies.
The Heart of Spain
Seville is steeped in history, with palaces and monuments captivating tourists and “Game of Thrones” fans alike. It’s a city of immense beauty, deeply religious yet equally passionate in its pursuit of pleasure — a paradox that has blended and thrived for centuries. Olé!
1. Real Alcázar (Real Alcázar)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alcázar of Seville is the oldest royal palace in Europe still in use. Dating back to the 11th century, when Muslim authorities decided to build a fortress there, centuries of architectural additions have only enhanced its charm.
Sumptuous Gardens
The adjacent gardens are a feast for the eyes, with lush palms and orange trees showcasing their vibrant colors.
2. Palacio de las Dueñas
This luxurious 15th-century palace, once the favorite residence of the Duchess of Alba, is a major landmark in the city. It features a blend of Gothic and Mudéjar architectural styles. A visit to the building and its gardens offers a vivid glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and famous who lived there.
3. Seville Cathedral
The magnificent Seville Cathedral is unparalleled in size and grandeur. As the largest Gothic church in the world, this place of worship was built between 1434 and 1517 on the remnants of what was once the city’s main mosque.
The Giralda Bell Tower
The imposing Giralda incorporates the original minaret of the mosque, blending centuries of religious history. The cathedral also houses the monumental tomb of Christopher Columbus and the Capilla Mayor with its dazzling golden altarpiece.
4. ‘Las Setas’ (The Mushrooms)
The Metropol Parasol, also known as the “Mushrooms of Seville” (“Las Setas de Sevilla”), dominates Plaza de la Encarnación. Designed in 2001 by German architect Jürgen Mayer, it is the largest wooden structure in the world, incorporating the remnants of a Roman settlement.
5. Plaza de España
Seville’s Plaza de España—the largest in Spain—was designed by renowned Sevillian architect Aníbal González as an iconic space for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. A 515-meter-long canal surrounds it, bordered by tiled benches representing the provinces of Spain.
6. Traditional Horse Carriages
Seville’s iconic horse-drawn carriages date back to the 19th century when wealthy families rented them to attend the Feria de Abril festivities. Today, they’re a popular tourist attraction, offering a charming way to explore the city, with fixed prices that ensure no scams.
7. Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold)
The Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold), located along the Guadalquivir River near Puente San Telmo, is a remnant of the Moorish fortified walls that originally enclosed the city with 166 towers and 15 gates. This watchtower, built to protect the docks, is one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks.
8. The Triana Neighborhood
Across the Guadalquivir River, beyond its iconic bridge, the Triana neighborhood feels like a city within a city. Known for its sailors, bullfighters, and flamenco dancers, Triana is considered the spiritual heart of Romani culture. At night, it comes alive, with Calle Betis buzzing with wine, tapas, and the ubiquitous “duende.”
9. Holy Week
At its core, Holy Week is a religious celebration, but solemnity gives way to revelry for much of the week. Spain’s most symbolic Holy Week features as many festivities as prayers, with bars filled day and night by entire families. Processions of brotherhoods and penitents parade elaborate floats bearing images of the Virgin or Christ from the 17th century.
10. Real Maestranza Bullring
The Plaza de Toros de Sevilla, in the El Arenal port district, is Spain’s largest and most important bullring. With a capacity of 13,000 and a stunning baroque façade, it’s a superlative landmark, though perhaps not for everyone.
11. La Carboneria
As its name suggests, this was once a coal warehouse. Today, it’s a rustic, cool bar featuring nightly flamenco performances. Though often packed with tourists, its free entry and informal shows are one of the best ways to experience Seville’s passion for this timeless art form, with an energy that’s truly palpable.
12. Santa Cruz Neighborhood
Seville’s old Jewish quarter, the Santa Cruz neighborhood, is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. A labyrinth of narrow streets and winding alleys steeped in history at every turn, it’s also home to a growing number of tapas bars and restaurants. Avoid tourist traps and head to Cervecería Giralda, with its golden ceiling, once a stunning Moorish hammam.