The city of Seville boasts a collection of buildings and urban spaces that illustrate its historical evolution and architectural as well as cultural diversity. Its urban and monumental development reflects the influence of various cultures and periods, from the Roman and Muslim eras to the Christian and contemporary times. It is home to a wide range of monuments, museums, and public spaces that allow visitors to explore its heritage and appreciate its historical and administrative significance.
Planning a visit to Seville can be organised effectively to enable exploration of the main points of interest. The city offers digital tools and official tourist services that facilitate access to information on schedules, fees, and itineraries. This allows visitors to organise their itineraries efficiently, combining architectural heritage, urban spaces, and historic neighbourhoods that form an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric.
Seville Cathedral and the Giralda
The Seville Cathedral, constructed between 1402 and 1506 on the remnants of the old Almohad mosque, is the largest Gothic temple in the world. Construction began in 1434, following the chapter act of July 8, 1401, which dictated the need to build a church of unparalleled magnitude.
Master Alonso Martínez was responsible for the initial project, followed by the masters Ysambarte and Carlín (Charles Gautier de Ruan), who took over the direction of works in 1439 until his death in 1448. The Giralda, originally the minaret of the Almohad mosque, was constructed between 1184 and 1198 under the caliphate of Abu Yusuf Ya’qub al-Mansur. Renaissance elements were later added in the 16th century to adapt it as the bell tower of the Cathedral.
General admission to the site costs approximately €13 if purchased online, and €14 at the ticket office, with reduced and free entry available for certain groups. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance due to high demand.
Royal Alcázar of Seville
The Royal Alcázar of Seville is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its origins date back to the 10th century, when the Caliph of Córdoba, Abderramán III, ordered the construction of a fortress on the site of a previous Roman edifice. Over the centuries, the Alcázar has been expanded and renovated by various cultures, including the Almohads and Christians. During the reign of Peter I of Castile in the 14th century, the Mudéjar Palace was constructed, adjoining the Gothic palace of Alfonso X.
Jewish Quarter of Seville
The Jewish Quarter of Seville corresponds to a collection of streets and squares that today mainly comprise the neighbourhoods of Santa Cruz, San Bartolomé, and Santa María la Blanca. The organisation of the neighbourhood as an aljama became established following the Christian conquest of 1248, although documented evidence of Jewish populations in the city predates this; the Jewish community remained in the area until the final expulsion and conversion measures of the late 15th century.
While exploring the old Jewish quarter, one can find spaces that retain the traces of its past. Among them, the church of Santa María la Blanca stands out, which functioned as a synagogue until the 14th century and was later transformed into a Christian temple. Notable passages include Calle Verde, a narrow alleyway covered in greenery that connects with the layout of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood. These pathways, along with squares such as Santa Cruz and Refinadores, represent points of interest for understanding the design and history of the ancient Jewish quarter of Seville.
General Archive of the Indies
The General Archive of the Indies in Seville was established in 1785 at the initiative of King Charles III, with the purpose of centralising documentation regarding the administration of Spanish overseas territories, which had previously been scattered across various archives. The archive preserves approximately 43,000 files, consisting of around 800 million pages and 8,000 maps and drawings, primarily originating from the bodies responsible for administering overseas territories. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, alongside the Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar.
Plaza de España and Parque de María Luisa
The Plaza de España in Seville was constructed between 1914 and 1929 as part of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Designed by architect Aníbal González, the square is an exemplar of Andalusian regionalist architecture, combining elements of Spanish Renaissance and Mudéjar styles. At the centre of the plaza stands an immense semicircular building that houses various state organisations, surrounded by a canal crossed by four bridges and a central fountain. It features 48 benches dedicated to the Spanish provinces, 52 medallions of notable figures in Spanish history, and heraldic shields.
The adjacent Parque de María Luisa was inaugurated in 1914 as an urban park named after Infanta María Luisa Fernanda. In 1983, it was declared a Site of Cultural Interest in the category of Historic Garden. The park contains a diverse range of plant species, fountains, and monuments, making it a popular spot for walks and outdoor activities.
Torre del Oro
The Torre del Oro is a watchtower on the banks of the Guadalquivir River built during the Almohad rule in the 13th century as part of the river’s defensive structures. Throughout its history, it has undergone various renovations and repairs, including interventions following the earthquake of 1755, and has been part of the city’s defensive system along the riverfront.
Since the mid-20th century, the building has housed a naval museum featuring collections related to navigation and local maritime history; management of the space and practical information regarding opening hours and fees are available on official sites, including the Naval Museum Foundation, which publishes indicative prices (general admission around €3) and opening hours.
Metropol Parasol
The Metropol Parasol, popularly known as “Las Setas”, is a wooden and concrete structure located in Plaza de la Encarnación. Designed by German architect Jürgen Mayer, the structure was inaugurated in 2011 after several years of construction. With a length of 150 metres, a width of 70 metres, and a height of 26 metres, it is the largest wooden structure in the world. The Metropol Parasol houses a market, an archaeological museum, and a panoramic platform from which views of the city can be enjoyed.
Triana District
The Triana district, situated on the other side of the Guadalquivir River, is renowned for its ceramic and flamenco traditions. Its history dates back to the Roman period, when it was a significant centre for ceramic production. During the Middle Ages, Triana emerged as a prominent commercial and artisan hub, and in the 16th century, the Inquisition Tribunal was established in the district. In the 19th century, Triana underwent an urban transformation that consolidated its identity as a popular and traditional neighbourhood.
Access to the district is via the Triana Bridge, inaugurated in 1852, which connects the neighbourhood with the historical city centre. The bridge is a symbol of the area and offers panoramic views of the river and the city.
