The city of Seville boasts a collection of buildings and urban spaces that reflect its historical evolution and architectural and cultural diversity. Its urban and monumental development showcases the influence of various cultures and periods, ranging from Roman and Muslim eras to Christian and contemporary times. The city features an extensive array of monuments, museums, and public spaces, enabling visitors to explore its heritage and appreciate its historical and administrative significance.
Planning a visit to Seville can be organised efficiently to ensure maximum exposure to its main points of interest. The city offers digital tools and official tourist services that provide access to information regarding hours, fees, and routes. This allows visitors to plan their itineraries effectively, combining architectural heritage, urban spaces, and historic neighbourhoods that form part of the city’s cultural fabric.
Seville Cathedral and La Giralda
Seville Cathedral, constructed between 1402 and 1506 on the site of the former Almohad mosque, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Construction began in 1434, following the capitular record of 8th July 1401, which established the necessity to build a church of such magnitude unmatched by any other.
The master builder Alonso Martínez oversaw the initial project, followed by masters Ysambarte and Carlín (Charles Gautier de Ruan), who took charge of the 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 cathedral’s bell tower.
General entry to the complex costs approximately 13 euros when purchased online and 14 euros at the ticket office, with reduced and free rates available for certain groups. It is advisable to buy 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 designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its origins date back to the 10th century when the Caliph of Cordoba, Abd al-Rahman III, commanded the construction of a fortress on the site of a former Roman building. Over the centuries, the Alcázar has been extended and renovated by various cultures, including the Almohads and Christians. During the reign of Peter I of Castile in the 14th century, the Mudejar Palace was built, which was attached to the Gothic palace of Alfonso X.
Jewish Quarter of Seville
The Jewish Quarter of Seville corresponds to the collection of streets and squares that today primarily comprise the neighbourhoods of Santa Cruz, San Bartolomé, and Santa María la Blanca. The organisation of the quarter as an aljama was consolidated following the Christian conquest in 1248, although the presence of Jewish populations in the city has documented precedents from earlier periods; the Jewish community resided in the area until the final expulsion and conversion measures in the late 15th century.
In the journey through the ancient Jewish quarter, one can find spaces that retain the imprint of its past. Among these is the Church of Santa María la Blanca, which functioned as a synagogue until the 14th century and was subsequently transformed into a Christian temple. Characteristic passages such as Calle Verde, a narrow alley covered with vegetation that connects with the layout of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, also stand out. These paths, alongside squares like Santa Cruz and Los Refinadores, comprise points of interest to learn about the layout and history of the former Jewish quarter of Seville.
General Archive of the Indies
The General Archive of the Indies in Seville was established in 1785 at the behest of King Charles III, aiming to centralise documentation related to the administration of Spanish overseas territories that had previously been scattered across various archives. The archive houses around 43,000 files, containing approximately 800 million pages and 8,000 maps and drawings, largely originating from bodies responsible for the governance of overseas territories. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, along with the Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar.
Plaza de España and María Luisa Park
Seville’s Plaza de España was constructed between 1914 and 1929 as part of the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929. Designed by architect Aníbal González, the square exemplifies Andalusian regionalist architecture, combining elements of Spanish Renaissance and Mudejar styles. At the centre of the square stands a large semi-circular building housing various state bodies, surrounded by a canal spanned by four bridges and a central fountain. It is adorned with 48 benches dedicated to Spanish provinces, 52 medallions of illustrious figures from Spanish history, and heraldic shields.
María Luisa Park, adjacent to the square, was inaugurated in 1914 as Infanta María Luisa Fernanda Urban Park. In 1983, it was declared a Site of Cultural Interest in the category of Historic Garden. The park features a vast variety of plant species, fountains, and monuments, making it a popular spot for leisurely walks and outdoor activities.
Torre del Oro
The Torre del Oro is a watchtower on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, constructed during Almohad rule in the 13th century as part of the river’s defensive fortifications. Throughout its history, it has undergone renovations and repairs (including work following the 1755 earthquake) and has been part of the city’s riverfront defensive system.
Since the mid-20th century, the building has housed a naval museum focused on navigation and local maritime history; details regarding the management of the space as well as practical information on hours and fees can be found on official websites and those of the Naval Museum Foundation, which publish indicative prices (general entry around 3 euros) 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 offering views of the city.
Triana District
The Triana district, situated across the Guadalquivir River, is known for its ceramic and flamenco traditions. Its history dates back to the Roman era when it was a significant centre for ceramic production. During the Middle Ages, Triana became a key commercial and artisanal hub, and in the 16th century, the Inquisition Tribunal was established in the area. In the 19th century, Triana underwent urban transformation, solidifying 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 city’s historic centre. The bridge is a symbol of the district and offers panoramic views of the river and the city.
