Interesting City Of Seville
Seville is more correctly named Sevilla but Seville is the more common name used. This exciting city is the capital of southern Spain as well as the heartbeat of Andalucia. It is full of soul and life as it is the home of many traditions, such as flamenco, fiestas and bullfighting.
It contains many beautiful buildings that are both modern and ancient, giving different senses to its varied offerings.
Ancient Quarter
The first section to tour Seville is its ancient quarter of Jewish origin at Santa Cruz barrio. You will be amazed with the intricate network of narrow pathways that are long and winding with ancient buildings looming over you as you walk past. The streets are so narrow that its residents can lean out to shake your hand from their window.
However, these narrow pathways ensure little traffic and keep the area cool with its close and tall buildings; even in the hottest summer days. Nevertheless, it can be quite a challenge to move around the ancient quarters without a good map or guide, as the passageways are really confusing with so many through paths.
Interesting Sights
The best sight at Seville is its Cathedral which is the world’s largest standing Gothic structure and the 3rd biggest church with its side Giralda. It was originally a mosque built by Muslims who invaded the land; now the minarets of the mosque are included with the Cathedral when the Christian re-conquest conquered the town. The unique minaret was made a part of the Cathedral’s bell tower where a weather vane spots the top in a female form to represent fate. The bell tower offers amazing views of the city.
Close by is the Moorish Alcazar fortress which became King Pedro’s castle when the Christians conquered the town. Most of the Moorish influence was retained through a lot of renovation with authentic Moorish workmen hailing from Granada. It is magically beautiful on summer nights with its floodlights on.
Still another splendid building to visit is the Casa de Pilatos, or Pilatos Castle, which contains Mudéjar influence. This beautiful renaissance building houses antique furniture, silverware, paintings, ancient plates and the like. Everyone is welcome to view its outside and inside except at times when the Royal family and aristocrats make their appearance in Seville.
Seville is a must for all visitors in Spain as it is an amazing city of rich history. The locals are also very hospitable as you wander around the sites to appreciate their beauty.
There is never a dull moment at Seville as there are wonderful eateries like bars and restaurants to whet your appetite on the local fare. Be entertained by a flamenco or sevilliana while in Sevilla.