Diving into the essence of people is what makes the difference on a journey. And Seville clearly shows all the strength of Spain, exactly the way we imagine it: in the architecture of Moorish traces, in the tasty cuisine with a mixture of influences, in the firm steps of flamenco, in the vibrant colors and in the traditional (and currently so criticized) bullfights.
I was in Seville more than 20 years ago for the first time and returning to the capital of Andalusia was sensational. It’s amazing how each trip brings us new teachings and picks us up in different moments of life. That’s why I love seeing places I’ve been to before and I confess that I’ve fallen in love with Seville.
The historic centre is relatively small, which makes the city easy to explore by foot, by tram or by bike. Everything revolves around the Plaza del Triunfo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is the unmissable Cathedral of Santa Maria da Sede (which has an Arab tower, the Giralda Tower), in addition to the Royal Alcazar palaces and the Indian Archives (which holds the history of great navigations).
To stay very well accommodated, in front of these icons of world history choose the traditional Alfonso XIII hotel. It was built exactly to welcome the noble visitors of the time. It is a classic. It has Moorish features and very elegant decoration.
Seville also has an old Jewish quarter, Santa Cruz. Today, it is a lively place, full of bars and restaurants. It’s worth trying the Oriza and Las Terezas when you want to take a break from walking through the labyrinthine streets of the neighborhood. To watch a legitimate flamenco show, go to the neighborhood of Triana, the cradle of flamenco.
To close with a golden key, visit the Plaza de España, which was built outside the centre to host the 1929 Ibero-American Exhibition, but in a distance that can easily be reached on a walk. It is beautiful. It’s worth spending a few hours walking around with your jaw dropped in aw, especially on a sunny day.
Spain is a country that pleases easily and Seville needs to get into your itinerary by showing the essence and Spanish roots with strength.
I wish you all a great week.
XoXo and until next Tuesday.
