Many of those who have been spending a few days of vacation to the Algarve often take the opportunity to visit some cities in southern Spain. However, there is a famous city in Andalusia that is away from the sea and where in summer many can not even leave home during the day. The heat is the ‘culprit’ and there, during the months of July and August, temperatures even exceed 40 degrees.
Seville, one of Andalusia’s ‘jewels’, stands out alongside Cordoba and Granada as part of the most famous trio of historical cities in the region. Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, the city conquers many of those who visit it, including the Portuguese.
Rio Guadalquivir, the ‘soul’ of the city
The Guadalquivir River, navigable much of its course, crosses the city and reinforces its natural charm. Its waters reflect the mixture of cultures that marked Seville over the centuries, from the Arab presence to the Christian and Gypsy influences. The city is known for the monumental heritage and its deeply rooted cultural tradition. Andalusian cuisine and solarengo climate are other of the elements that make Seville a much sought after destination in southern Spain.
One of the highlights is the Real Alcázar de Seville, classified as a World Heritage by UNESCO. This Mouro Royal Palace is famous for its ornamental details and the Mudéjares tiles that decorate their halls, arches and courtyards with “an impressive beauty” in the words of the blog authors.
Gardens with History
The structure of the Alcázar has been enriched over time with gothic and baroque influences, the result of successive remodeling. Its lush gardens also deserve a visit and fans of the “War of Thrones” series will be able to recognize the scene that has been the scene for Dorne’s gardens.
The palace is still used today as an official residence of the Spanish royal family when visiting the city, remaining as the royal castle in older use in Europe.
La Giralda, to Emblematic Tower
Another unavoidable symbol of Seville is La Giralda, a tower that began to be a minaret of the old mosque and was later transformed into a bell tower of the cathedral. Christians added a third of their height, leading it to the present 104 meters.
At the top of the tower is El Giraldillo, the sculpture that crowns La Giralda and gives him name. In times it was considered the highest tower in the world, and climbing its top offers a 360 -degree panoramic view over the city.
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A climb with history
It should be noted that there are no stairs on the climb to the top of La Giralda, just a sloping ramp. Legend has it that it was built so so that the magnet could rise mounted on a donkey five times a day to make the call to prayer.
Another emblematic place of Seville is Plaza de España, built in 1929 for the Ibero-American exhibition. This square, considered one of the most beautiful in the city, displays tile benches representing all Spanish provinces.
Cinema scenario
In addition to architectural richness, Plaza de España is also a place of worship for fans of the “Star Wars” saga as it set a scenario for some scenes of the movies. Visitors can also enjoy a boat trip through the channels that serpent through the square.
As the night approaches, Seville makes a new life. Walking on the banks of the Guadalquivir River allows you to enjoy the Del Oro Tower, an old military tower that kept the riches brought from the colonies, while choosing a restaurant to taste local cuisine and end the day in the best way.
In summer, the night is the best time to take a walk in Seville, as during the day the sun is usually intense and there are many days when temperatures reach or exceed 40 degrees.
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