As the center of Andalusia, Seville offers a multitude of attractions for tourists. The blend of Moorish architectural style and Spanish Mediterranean atmosphere has transformed Seville into a beautiful city!
Spain’s fourth-largest city is located in the southern part of the country, on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Despite its narrow and winding streets, its houses reminiscent of Moorish architecture, its monuments, and its beautiful gardens make it one of the most fascinating cities in Spain.
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Seville attractions
Catedral de Sevilla
Officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, it is a Roman Catholic cathedral and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. The building houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus.
In terms of its interior, it is the third-largest church in the world and the largest cathedral. Additionally, it is known as the world’s largest Gothic church.
In 1198, a mosque was built on the site of the cathedral, which was consecrated as a Christian church in 1248. In 1401, a decision was made to build a new cathedral, and construction continued throughout the 15th century.
The architects incorporated elements and columns from the previous mosque. Its courtyard is now the Courtyard of the Orange Trees, and its minaret was transformed into a bell tower. This is La Giralda, the most recognizable symbol of the city. La Giralda, standing 104 meters high with a base length of 13 meters, was begun in 1184, modeled after the famous Koutoubia Mosque minaret in Marrakech.
The five-aisled cathedral has impressive features: it is 135 meters long, 100 meters wide, and 42 meters high; its interior height is 36 meters; it has 15 gates on its four facades; and 80 chapels.
Plaza de España
The semi-circular building of Plaza de España was constructed in Art Deco and Neo-Mudéjar style for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition as part of the Maria Luisa Park complex.
The building houses government offices and exhibitions, where you can also view manuscripts by Columbus and Cortes.
In front of the building is a wide moat with several bridges. Among Seville’s attractions, this is the most photographed location.
The building’s alcoves, decorated with tiles, represent the provinces of Spain, depicting maps and notable historical events. Its staircases are adorned with bright ceramic tiles with a brilliant glaze.
Torre del Oro
The tower standing on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River was built in 1221 during Almohad rule for port defense purposes.
The museum inside is on two levels; the first level showcases the tower’s history, highlighted by Johannes Janssonius’ engraving depicting the city in 1617.
The upper floor houses an exhibition on the history of the Spanish Armada, featuring maps and navigation instruments. The museum also includes a viewing terrace.
Alcázar (Real Alcázar de Sevilla)
A vast palace complex symbolizing the wealth of the caliphs. Originally a Moorish fortress, it was converted into a palace in the early 700s. It was expanded in Mudéjar style by King Peter I.
The Moorish royal palace, with its stunning gardens, courtyards, fountains, and ornate arches, is a must-see in Seville.
It still serves a royal function, as when the Spanish monarch is in Seville, they can use the reserved parts of the palace.
Exploring it takes several hours, and visitors will leave with a guaranteed unforgettable experience!
All information can be found here!
Metropol Parasol
Also known as Las Setas de Sevilla (the Mushrooms of Seville), this is one of the city’s uniquely designed structures. It serves not only as a tourist attraction but also provides shade for the square.
The structure is one of the largest wooden architectural constructions in the world. It resembles six large mushrooms whose caps are fused together. Its maximum height is 28 meters.
On sunny days, it provides shade, and nozzles on top spray water mist. At night, it can be the site of performances with light and sound effects.
An elevator allows visitors to go to the top of the structure, where a winding, undulating walkway and a viewing terrace have been created.
Maria Luisa Park (Parque de María Luisa)
Located in front of the Plaza de España, this impressive park with its spectacular spaces, gardens, fountains, and monuments offers a great recreational activity.
In the southern part of the park, you can find the Archaeological Museum and an ethnographic museum.
Casa de Pilatos
This palace was built in 1483 by Pedro Enríquez de Quiñones and his wife. While it is a Moorish-style palace, it also features other architectural styles such as Mudéjar-Gothic, Romantic, and Renaissance.
The inner courtyards filled with Greek and Roman statues and the tiles are particularly notable.
All information can be found here!
Basilica de La Macarena
Although the Seville Cathedral is the main attraction, this church is also worth a visit.
Built in 1941, the neobaroque church’s white and gold exterior and somewhat ornate interior are often overlooked among Seville’s attractions.
The adjacent Macarena Gate (Puerta Macarena) with its golden color further highlights the beauty of the basilica.
Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza
Bullfighting has a long tradition in Spain and is an integral part of Seville’s culture.
The 14,000-seat arena was built in 1761 and still hosts bullfights today. It is the oldest and one of the most beautiful bullrings in the country.
If you do not wish to watch a bullfight, you can visit the museum to learn about the history of bullfighting.
All information can be found here!
Monument to Christopher Columbus (Monumento a Cristóbal Colón)
Christopher Columbus spent his last years in Seville, and his remains are interred in the cathedral.
In his memory, a double column monument was erected in the Jardines de Murillo park.
Hospital los Venerables
An interesting building with three distinct parts: an art exhibition space, a church, and a former hospital.
The 17th-century baroque building served as a residence for priests. It now houses the Velázquez Centre, showcasing the works of the famous painter Diego Velázquez.
The hospital section closed in the 1970s. The courtyard is surrounded by Tuscan arches and decorated with beautiful tiles on the walls.
All information can be found here!
Museum of Fine Arts (Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla)
The most important museum in Spain after the Prado Museum in Madrid.
Founded in 1839, the museum exhibits masterpieces by Spanish artists from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century.
Entrance is free for EU citizens! Closed on Mondays!
Flamenco Dance Museum (Museo del Baile Flamenco)
Flamenco dance is an integral part of Andalusian culture.
The museum showcases the origins and development of flamenco, with photographs, costumes, and other related items.
Naturally, you can also watch flamenco performances in the central courtyard. The reviews unanimously praise the performances!
All information can be found here!
Santa Cruz Quarter
The old Jewish quarter’s narrow streets and alleys are the most charming part of Seville. Fortunately, it is the city’s center, so most attractions are located here.
The quarter is filled with numerous restaurants, tapas bars, and souvenir shops.