At last, after fifteen months of living here in Spain, we have at last made it to Seville. Prompted by our friends Chris and Stan who had visited before us and mentioned that it was closer in distance than Cadiz, we set off this morning at 8.30 arriving in Seville just over an hour later.
Experience has told us that it is best, if possible, to make several visits to large towns and cities, rather than try to cram all the sites into one frantic visit.
Our plan therefore was to visit the Plaza de España, the Reales Alcázares, a group of palaces dating back over a thousand years and the Cathedral of Seville, dating back to the 9th century.
We parked the car in one of several underground car parks by the river and armed with our city guide set off on our travels.
After a short walk through the Parque Maria Luisa we arrived at the Plaza de España. Built between 1914 and 1928 in a semi-circlular shape, it now houses mainly Government offices.
Leaving the Plaza, we headed through the Jardines de Murillo and into the Santa Cruz district, where the Alcázar is located.
Cycling here seems to be very popular with well laid out cycle lanes. This row of bikes were presumably at a hire and drop off point. Not for us today though !!.
The outer wall of the Alcázar.
Those of you who read the blog know that we love the old parts of any town or village that we visit and this was no exception.
The narrow streets and squares were a delight with many small shops and cafes.
We came across this chap playing his guitar and we were happy to listen and contribute a small token towards his continued success. Anne said it may bring us luck......I think somehow we have that already.
After a short while we came to the main entrance of the Alcázar, just around the corner of this ancient wall.
The complex of palaces dates back to the year 700, comprising many different styles added over the centuries.
More detailed information can be found here.
One of the many beautiful ornate inner courtyards.
The main part of the palace, the Patio de las Doncellas (Patio of the Maidens), with decorations and tiles from the 16th century.
One of many Flemish tapestries in the Salón de Carlos V.
More of the tapestries in beautiful surroundings.
The exit point of the Alcázar.
Definately worth the entrance fee (€7), just to marvel at the building, the artwork and the decoration.
The "Giralda Tower" of the nearby Cathedral.
One of the many horsedrawn carriages showing tourists the sights.
The ancient minaret, known as the "Giralda Tower", was part of the original mosque on this site. Building started in 1184 and finished in 1198.
We didn't go into the Cathedral as time was moving on and we had a fair walk back to the car park. Another time perhaps.
It's not as cold as it looks....honest!!.
Walking back to the car we passed by this unusual statue. We had to look twice before we realised he was actually breathing.......we only noticed when he moved his foot!. Very good.
Looking back down the Avenida de la Constitución towards the Cathedral.
The Torre del Oro that houses the Maritime Museum which we passed on our way back to the car.Just like Cadiz, there is so much to see in Seville that it will no doubt take several visits. We look forward to returning in the not too distant future.
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