Wednesday 11 January 2012

Real Alcázar de Sevilla


After our visit to Seville's newest attraction, the Parasol, Russ and I headed to perhaps one of the the oldest, the "Real Alcázar" palaces, parts of which date back to the 10th century.

The complex was originally the residence of the Moorish Kings and has evolved in many different styles over many centuries. It is considered to be the oldest active Royal Palace in the whole of Europe, being used when members of the current Spanish Royal Family stay in the city.
The Puerta del León that opens out into the Plaza del Tríunfo pictured below.

The courtyards and patios have an abundance of fountains and water features.



Exquisite tiles and stuccoed Arabesque work decorate the rooms.
The multi-arched Damsels Courtyard, parts of which date back to the 14th century.






A true pro in action - Russ getting the perfect shot.

The extensive gardens are a delight and one can only imagine the colours and fragrances of it in springtime or summer. Above, looking at the the "Estanque de Mercurio" (Mercury's Pool), fed by water from the roof of a nearby building.




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