Sevilla is renowned for being the city of Carmen and Don Juan, where bullfighting remains politically acceptable, and where young girls dream of becoming flamenco dancers. Yet its real value lies in being home of America’s discovery, which brought new prosperity.
Explore one of the world’s largest cathedrals and take in its breathtaking vaulted interior.
History
Seville boasts thousands of years of history, which can be seen today through its breathtaking buildings and monuments. Beginning as a Roman settlement called Hispalis and then later under Visigoth rule as one of Spain’s major metropolises.
Moorish Moors took control in 711 and renamed Sevilla Ishbiliya; but with Christian rulers’ reconquista in 1248 came back Christian control and wealth. Christian rulers slowly restored Seville as they rebuilt its luxurious palaces and other buildings before America was discovered and its discovery led to more economic prosperity as Seville controlled sea-traffic for maritime trade monopoly monopoly gave great economic advantage; during this time as well artists like Diego Velazquez, Francisco de Zurbaran and Bartolome Esteban Murillo working here; writer Miguel de Cervantes created his famous novel Don Quixote while imprisoned in Seville jail.
Sevilla experienced an untimely decline from its golden era until the 20th century. From 18th to 19th centuries, bad luck, devastating plagues, and Cadiz emerging as the new “Port of the Indies” caused Sevilla’s downfall; although the city managed to partially rebound by 20th century and is once more an attractive tourist destination.
Sevilla is home to people of all ages and nationalities, but has its own special appeal that draws tourists from around the globe. Spaniards are known for their hospitality and friendliness – something you will experience from your first step into Sevilla. Socializing outside of their household often occurs at cafes or bars in Sevilla; their clothes fit closely around their bodies unlike many European cities, plus they pride themselves in showcasing their traditions and culture proudly.
Architecture
Seville is home to many historic buildings that showcase Spanish architecture that has shaped its region over centuries. Roman ruins at Italica and Moorish, early Christian, and New World expansion era buildings and monuments provide evidence of Seville’s long and storied past. Additionally, modern structures such as Metropol Parasol (a wooden structure which has caused some controversy due to its location and appearance) and Pelli Tower, built in 2015, stand out amongst Seville’s traditional structures.
Seville Cathedral and Giralda are two prominent examples of Gothic-style buildings found throughout Seville. Other notable Gothic-style structures in Seville are Alcazar palace and patio de los naranjos (Orange Tree Courtyard). Moorish rule left its mark on Seville architecture for nearly 800 years as they renovated mosques for aesthetic purposes while simultaneously building Cathedrals over them.
After the Reconquest, Sevilla flourished as a cultural leader. Under both Abbadia dynasties and later under Almoravid and Almohad empires, Sevilla served as a hub for learning and cultural exchange; population soared significantly and new buildings reflected this expansion.
In the 18th century, Bourbon monarchs initiated a revival of Barcelona’s economy under their auspices; however, their efforts were derailed by political unrest. In 1929, Barcelona hosted the Iberian-American Exposition that led to a building boom and subsequent reconstruction in Barcelona.
In 1992, Seville hosted the Universal Exposition World’s Fair which marked a turning point in development of its infrastructure: new roads and bridges were constructed as well as Alta Velocidad Espaola high speed train service; furthermore the Guadalquivir River returned to its original path.
Seville is becoming more popular as modern architecture becomes increasingly prevalent, and architects are experimenting with different shapes and materials to craft unique structures. One such experimentation project is the Metropol Parasol, built in 2011 as the world’s largest wooden structure – it may not be everyone’s cup of tea but definitely worth seeing this unique building!
Food
Seville offers an eclectic combination of traditional dishes and innovative twists on classic recipes, all designed to satisfy its inland climate. Expect hearty stews made with beans, vegetables and meat as well as tasty desserts made with nuts.
Roscos fritos are an irresistibly delicious treat! Made of fried dough that has been sprinkled with sugar or drizzled with syrup, and sometimes spiced up with cinnamon or lemon for extra zest, these treats have long been enjoyed during local fiestas or holidays such as Christmas and Easter; but are now popular all year long.
Cazon en adobo is another delectable dish to sample while in Seville. This stew features boneless whitefish as its main component; however, many restaurants also serve it with other forms of dogfish that may be easier to come by.
As well as offering up meaty dishes, Sevilla is well known for its nose-to-tail eating culture, which utilizes all parts of an animal, including its head. One popular form of pork consumption in Seville is serranito sandwiches which feature jamon serrano slices layered between fresh tomato slices and grilled green peppers for maximum enjoyment.
Seville residents enjoy wine as much as anyone, with one of the most remarkable beverages being Amontillado Sherry; an aged wine which features a unique nutty flavor. Perfect for pairing with tapas.
Try Aguardiente for an exquisite sherry-based liqueur with an alcohol content of around 60%; often used as an aperitif before dinner.
Do not miss the unique desserts baked by nuns in various convents around Seville – these delicious sweets often feature original recipes dating back to Moors and Romans alike!
For those in search of something lighter, the city offers a selection of traditional fried foods ranging from calamares and boquerones (anchovy) to fresh baked goods from panaderias and pastelerias; boxes can be purchased for as little as a few euros; these make an excellent snack while exploring its streets!
Nightlife
Seville comes alive at night! Filled with locals known for their energy, the streets and squares come alive with locals celebrating life to create an electric atmosphere. Temperatures don’t begin to drop until well into the early hours and people are out and about socialising in bars and restaurants while taking in flamenco shows or just simply enjoying this unique ambiance.
El Tremendo is one of many neighborhood bars, but few draw larger crowds like it does. Cold Cruzcampo beer is served up generously here and it serves as an attractive gathering point for young locals and students. While some chairs and stools may be available, most visitors opt to stand.
Hotel EME Catedral Mercer, in the center of town and within view of the Cathedral, is another popular spot for drinks. Here, a sophisticated bar featuring mixologist-crafted cocktails and Sherry is offered to an exclusive clientele; purple and moss velvet seating make this bar even more luxurious!
Flaherty’s Irish Pub and tourist bar has long been the scene of many fun nights out for tourists and displaced locals alike. You’ll find every NFL and college football game, rugby, and US basketball championship on television here – plus they stay open late, drawing an eclectic crowd.
Zona Franca offers more mature options with their bar de copas, cultural association and bar de copas, all under one roof. Upstairs features four salons which rotate monthly showcasing young artists work; downstairs there’s a wooden bar/dance floor which often clears for concerts by DJs spinning electronica music.
Seville offers an incredible summer atmosphere where temperatures rarely dip below 30C until early morning, and people remain out socialising until the wee hours in parks and outdoor bars – an amazing way to experience its true magic! Flamenco shows are held near every corner while restaurants remain open late, providing something suitable for every mood and taste imaginable – just keep an eye on your valuables, be mindful of your surroundings and take precautionary steps if traveling alone at night!