A visit today to Seville in the company of friend Russ from Canada, specifically to see the "
Metropol Parasol", one of the cities newest visitor attractions.
The wooden structure, apparently inspired by the trees of a nearby park, took six years to construct and spreads itself over four levels.
The basement level displays roman mosaic floors and other artefacts discovered during construction. The upper levels contain an indoor market area, cafes and restaurants, with the top level offering stunning views over the city via a walkway over the top of the structure.
It's worth noting, as it's not very obvious, that access to the roof level is by a lift in the basement area with an entry fee of the best €1,20 I've ever spent.
Anyway, enough of my rambling, apart from adding that it is a truly stunning piece of architecture and a must if you visit Seville. The many pictures here do not do justice to an incredible piece of art and engineering but I hope you enjoy them.
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.
