Seville exudes an abundance of atmosphere! It is renowned as one of Spain's most iconic cities. With its fragrant orange-filled courtyards, breathtaking Mudéjar architecture, and lively impromptu flamenco performances in intimate squares under the night sky, Seville is truly a magical destination. However, this initial impression merely scratches the surface... Seville offers a plethora of activities to indulge in, making it an ideal winter getaway.
Alcázar Palace
Seville's Réal Alcazar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city's history. The palace's walls hold centuries of evolution, from the Arabic period and Middle Ages to the Renaissance and Baroque period. Originally built for King Peter of Castille on the site of a Muslim fortress, the royal family still uses the upper rooms as a personal residence today.
One of the most unique features of the Réal Alcazar is the Princess Bath, which is unlike anything else you've ever seen. Visitors will wind their way through a maze of indescribably beautiful tile-covered rooms, chambers, towers, and gardens, all housed within the incredible palace.
If you're planning a visit, be sure to see the Salon de Embajadores, or Ambassadors Reception Room, where the king stayed centuries ago. This room was the most luxuriously decorated in the palace during that time, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in the history and opulence of the royal family.
Famous Seville Cathedral
The Seville Cathedral, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is considered the largest cathedral of its kind in the world. It took over a century to complete and was designed with the intention of being so grand that those who saw it would think the builders were insane.
The exterior is adorned with countless spires and arches, while the interior boasts an impressive central nave that reaches a height of 42 meters, 80 side chapels, and a breathtaking hand-carved altarpiece known as the Retablo Mayor.
The Retablo Mayor is located in the Great Chapel and is the result of one craftsman's lifetime of work. The altarpiece features 45 scenes from the life of Christ and is a truly captivating sight. The cathedral's beauty extends beyond the altarpiece, with sparkling stained glass windows and ornate white stone walls that frame the space. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the cathedral, as there is something to see everywhere, from the patterned floors to the spectacular ceilings.
For those who want to take in the views from above, the Giralda Tower offers far-reaching vistas of the surrounding area. And don't forget to pay a visit to Christopher Columbus' tomb, which can be found within the cathedral's walls.
All in all, the Seville Cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply experiencing the grandeur of one of the world's most impressive cathedrals.
Tomb of Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus, regardless of how history may ultimately judge him, undeniably holds the distinction of being the individual who had the greatest impact on world history, excluding religious figures.
While it is becoming increasingly evident that other Europeans may have reached the Americas before Columbus, he was the one who returned to Europe with the news and ignited the era of New World colonization.
The Cathedral of Seville houses what is believed to be Columbus' tomb, where his remains were laid to rest after being brought back from the New World. Although Columbus passed away in Valladolid, Spain, he had expressed his desire to be buried in the New World.
Consequently, his daughter-in-law transported his bones to the Dominican Republic, where they remained in the cathedral of Santo Domingo until 1795. When the Spanish withdrew from the Caribbean, Columbus' remains were brought back with them, and he now rests in the Cathedral of Seville, the city from which he embarked on his journey to the New World. Notably, the Cathedral's catafalque is a remarkable work of art.
During the procession, the coffin of Columbus is carried by figures representing the kings of Spain's four regions: Castilla, Leon, Navarra, and Aragon. Each of these figures dons a tunic adorned with the distinct coats of arms of Spain's constituent kingdoms.
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