Andalusia is a marvellous region known for representing Spanish culture as faithfully as possible. Let's set off today to discover the region's capital, Seville! You can't help but fall in love with this charming city with its many monuments, authentic streets, food and pace of life. Here are the Top 10 things to do during your stay in Seville.
1. Visit the Real Alcazar and its garden: located in the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, this 9th century fortified palace is steeped in history and has been remodelled many times over the years, making it one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture. It is also the oldest inhabited palace in Europe because the Spanish royal family takes its quarters here when they come to the Andalusian capital. Stroll through the magnificent gardens with their beautiful flower beds, ideal for a breath of fresh air during the summer. Also check out the Palaces of Pilate and Palacio de las Duenas to imagine Seville during its golden age in the first part of the 16th century.
2. Marvel at the Cathedral of Seville: built-in 1401 on the foundations of an old mosque, you can't miss its huge bell tower, the Giralda, which was the minaret of the original mosque. Inside you can admire its Gothic altar composed of 45 panels representing the life of Christ, the tomb of Christopher Columbus and a beautiful collection of jewellery and religious paintings.
3. Take a walk along the Guadalquivir River: it runs through Seville and has allowed the city to be a true commercial centre in the western world for more than 200 years. As you walk along the river, you will be able to feel the vibrant atmosphere in which the city was once bustling. Also you will see beautiful monuments like the Torre del Oro, a defensive tower built by the Arabs in the early 13th century. You will also be able to practice many sports activities such as canoeing, rowing, etc...
Did you know that?
In 1519, Ferdinand Magellan left from Seville on his first trip around the world. When you cross the San Telmo Bridge you can see the beacon that commemorates the zero kilometre of this trip.
4. Go to the Plaza de España: it is an extraordinary and huge square built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929. There is a majestic palace with beautiful canals. You will find many symbols associated with Spain, the 4 bridges represent the 4 ancient kingdoms of Spain, the arcades, fountains and the 48 benches of azulejos that symbolize each province of the country.
5. Take a walk in the Maria Luisa Park: located next to the Plaza de España, this is the most prestigious park in the city. A true green lung of Seville, it was once part of the private garden of the Palace of San Telmo, residence of the Dukes of Montpensier. The Frog Fountain, the Lion Fountain and the Island of the Ducks are must-sees during your walk.
6. Visit the Real Maestranza de Caballeria Arena and the Plaza de Toros: better known as the Arena of Seville, it is one of the oldest and most beautiful areas in the country. Installed in the middle of the city, bullfighting is an integral part of Sevillian culture, as is flamenco.
7. Climb on the Metropol Parasol: you won't be indifferent to this amazing wooden structure installed in the heart of Seville. Although it was initially a very controversial project, it is now an integral part of the city's landscape. You can go up there and admire the city, the best is to go there to enjoy the magnificent sunset.
8. Admire the works of art in the different museums in Seville: the city is full of museums, each one as magnificent as the next. These include the Seville Museum of Fine Arts with its many religious works, the Contemporary Andalusian Museum and the Archaeological Museum under the Metropol Parasol.
9. Vibrate to the sound of flamenco: it's a must if you come to Seville. Flamenco is native to the region, so take the opportunity to go to one of the famous tapas bars to listen to and see flamenco dancers. Among the most famous are the Casa de la Guitarra, the Carboneria and El Arenal.
10. Cross the Gadualquivir: Discover the Triana neighbourhood on the right bank of the river. This is the old gypsy quarter of Seville, and is the cradle of flamenco. See the magnificent San Jorge Castle, an ancient Muslim fortress used as a siege during the Inquisition. Also take a stroll along the market stalls of Triana to taste the specialities of the region.
You can't help but love this beautiful city of Seville, both charming and vibrant, let yourself be carried away by the Spanish zeal!
