Monuments in Seville

World Heritage Site

Indias archive – was built in the 16th century and has undergone a number of modifications over a period of time. Important documents depicting the Spanish relationship with American colonies are stored here. This was originally the Mercaderes Market and was built in 1572. Juan de Herrera was the architect whereas construction was done by Alonso de Vandelviva and Juan de Minjares.

Seville Cathedral – has been built on the site where a 12th century Great Mosque existed. This is built based on Gothic architecture and is the world’s 3rd largest temple. The parts of the Great Mosque that exist even today are – the 16th century minaret, Abluciones courtyard and Puerta Del Perdón door. This structure has undergone lots of changes over a period of time and hence reflects the Mudejar, Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque and Neo-classical architectural styles.

The Royal Alcázar of Seville – is the place where Carlos V married Isabel of Portugal. This palace deteriorated over a period of time and was renovated by Isabel II. Inside the building there are two courtyards – Las Doncellas where official work was done and Las Muñecas which was used for private purposes. The 16th century staircase provided for accessing the top floor has the paintings of Madrazo and Roelas.

Other Monuments

1.María Luisa Park – was gifted by the Duchess of Montpellier in 1893. Its shape is a trapezium and it has two avenues – Pizarro and Hernán Cortés – that crisscross each other. This park is full of plants and fountains and is ideal for strollers. Statues and fountains are provided at the meeting points of the avenues making it appear like an open air museum. Frogs fountain and Lions fountain are the best fountains. Duck and Lotus pools are also famous.

Plaza de España Square – was designed and built in 1929 by Aníbal González for conducting the Ibero-American exhibition. The ceramic benches were put all round the square and painted to represent all Spanish provinces. It is being used as a cultural meeting place. Exposed bricks, wrought iron and ceramics were used in this building. It has a semicircular floor plan. There are two main towers that prevail in this building.

Real Maestranza Bullring and Museum – was built in 1761 and the age of this bullring is more than 240 years. This building is one of the significant buildings in Seville. This bullring is oval in shape, thereby making it unique. Originally stones were used for the seating arrangement; but this was replaced by bricks in 1914. It has a bullring museum showing costumes, photographs and paintings that are related to bullfighting, thereby educating the visitors.

In addition there are other monuments – Plaza de América Square, The Torre del Oro tower, La Giralda tower, El Divino Salvador Church-College, Los Venerables Hospital, La Caridad Hospital, etc.