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Seville is an important historical centre with Iberian and Moorish architecture dating back to the 10^th century. The city is home to a variety of palaces, churches, and museums chronicling the region’s past.

 

The tomb of Christopher Columbus rests in the Cathedral of Seville, a house of worship which has more floor space than any other in the world. The adjoining Giralda tower dates back to the 13^th century and those who climb it are rewarded with a splendid view of the city. The majestic Alcázar is one of Spain’s principal palaces and has beautiful gardens. This structure is distinctly Moorish and dates back more than 1000 years to the Spanish rule of King Alfonso and Queen Isabella. The most renowned church in the area is the Basílica de la Macarena. It is very modern compared with some other structures in the city as it was built between 1936 and 1941. For those interested in fine art, the Fine Arts Museum, locally known as the Museo de Bellas Artes is definitely worth a visit.

 

The historic Jewish quarter of Seville is fascinating and culminates in the Barrio de Santa Cruz, a network of quaint plazas and meandering streets. The centre of present-day Seville gathers itself around Calle Sierpes, a pleasant, shady street lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. The Plaza de España is an excellent place to relax, with its soothing canals and intermittent fountainheads. The entire surrounding region is steeped in Moorish and Roman history and is easily accessible by car.

 

A short drive northwest of Seville is Itálica, the first Roman city on the Spanish Peninsula. There are some partially excavated Roman ruins in this area that are worth a visit. Further out is the Alhambra, a Moorish fortress built over Granada. Behind the fortress, the mountains of Sierra Nevada reward visitors with breathtaking scenery. San Pablo Airport services Seville with both domestic and international flights. Transcontinental passengers generally catch a connecting flight at either Barcelona or Madrid. Another option is to fly into Malaga, a busier hub with rail service into Seville.