Seville is the capital of Andalusia, the cultural and financial center of southern Spain. The city is a major tourist destination in Andalusia.
Near to Seville is the Atlantic Ocean, and the Guadalquivir River flows through this city.
History of Seville
These areas were settled by the Romans after the victory of the Second Punic War, and have since become the administrative seat of the region.
With the arrival of the Moors in the territory of Spain, they occupy this city. But, at that time the Moors favored the development of Cordoba, so Seville was in its shadow.
In 1248, the Spanish conquered these places and introduced their power. At first, subtly and later, much more aggressively, the expulsion of the Moors began. It estimated that over 300,000 Moors left these areas. This destiny has not only caught the Moors but also the Jews. In 1391, all the synagogues in Seville were closed and converted into Catholic churches.
In the 19th century, Seville gained a reputation for outstanding architecture and culture. It became a major tourist destination after hosting the International Fair in 1992, and a new airport, a new train station, new bridges, and an improved connection with Madrid built.
The Cathedral of Saint Mary
Catedral de Santa Maria de la Sede is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest in terms of all world cathedrals, just after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.
This 15th-century cathedral located on the site of a former mosque that built at the end of the 12th century. The central part of the church rises to 37 meters. This cathedral houses the remains of Christopher Columbus. Inside the cathedral is the La Giralda tower, which was a minaret of the mosque, and is now the bell tower of the cathedral.
When you visit the Cathedral of Saint Mary, what is breathtaking is the altar-back, which is the largest in Christian churches. It made by many famous Spanish artists. The golden altar was built during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Plaza de España
The most spectacular park in Seville is the Park de Maria Luisa. It is known for one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, the Plaza de Espana. The large square which is crossed by the bridges under which the tourists in boats pass, makes you fall in love with Seville even more. In total, four bridges symbolize the four ancient Spanish kingdoms. The Plaza de España also decorated with a monumental fountain.
A strong impression, it leaves a brick castle that fits perfectly with Moorish-style ceramics. The Plaza de España also served as the scenery for one part of Star Wars.
The Royal Alcazar of Seville
The origin of the name comes from Arabic, which means fortress. This fort was a very important place during the rule of the Moors, as it was the residence of their famous dynasties. When the Spaniards conquered these spaces, the construction of this building continued, and the most significant and beautiful part built at the behest of Pedro I de Castilla. The Royal Alcazar of Seville. has beautiful rooms, lush gardens, lakes and is a very interesting tourist attraction. Alcazar is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
How to get from Madrid to Seville
Madrid is the common first stop for visitors to Spain. It is also located to access all the major cities of Andalusia, of which Seville is one of them.
Train — The best way to get from Madrid to Seville is by rail. The train takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. This is the fastest way to get from Madrid to Seville. The express train makes it possible to visit Seville from Madrid as a day trip.
Bus — There are regular buses between Madrid and Seville during the day. The journey takes six hours. This is the cheapest option, but the journey is a long one. Buses from Madrid to Seville depart from the Mendez Alvaro bus station.
Car — 550 km drive from Madrid to Seville takes about 5 hours 30 minutes. You will spend the most time on the A-5.
Flight — There are regular flights from Madrid to Seville and can be very cheap if you book in advance.
Whatever you do in Seville, you will always have the impression that you belong there. It is often said, “Whoever has not seen Seville has not even seen a miracle.”
Have a nice trip!
