Seville

Seville is the Andalusian capital and one of Spain's major cities. It is one of the most visited cities by foreign tourists and reaches scorching temperatures in summer making it one of the hottest places in Europe. Sitting on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville has everything to offer the visitor: the bustling historic quarter with historic buildings and World Heritage sites; the colourful districts of Triana, La Macarena and the popular Santa Cruz; museums, art galleries, theatres, cinemas, theme parks and many bars and restaurants.

Attractions

An ideal base is near the impressive gothic cathedral in the old quarter. Many other attractions are accessible from here. The cathedral dates back to 1401 and houses over 500 works of art. Attached to the cathedral is the tallest tower in Spain, La Giralda, an ancient minaret of the Islamic Mosque, erected in 1184 and a symbol of Seville.

Alongside the river and close to the bullring is the Torre del Oro (Golden Tower) which today houses The Naval Museum. The Plaza de Toros (bullring) was built in the 18th century, originally of wood. In the museum here, you can learn about the history of bullfighting. The Casa de Pilatos (House of Pilate) is Seville's top aristocratic town mansion with its beautiful glazed tiles and archaeological gardens. The Plaza de España is beautiful with its fountains, impressive arches, columns and colourfully tiled benches dedicated to the different provinces of Spain.

The Parque de Maria Luisa is close by and covers a huge area with its woodlands, squares and fountains. Seville has a selection of museums, two of which are housed in the park.

For culture you can visit one of Seville’s theatres such as the Lopa de Vega or for something more modern you can take in the new Golden Gate Bridge, the Park of Discoveries, the Olympic Stadium and the theme park on the south side of the river. Easter week celebrations are huge with hooded and robed penitents marching through the streets. Feria de Abril (April Fair) follows this when Sevillanos ride through the town on horseback and the whole city celebrates with food, wine, bullfights and flamenco.

About 20 minutes north of Seville in the direction of Merida you will find Italica, a huge complex of Roman ruins. If you want to get outdoors and hike, horse ride or cycle the World Heritage Site of Doñana Nature Reserve and the Sierra Norte Nature Reserve should be visited.

Shopping

There are plenty of places to shop in Seville and many local handicrafts are on offer. Traditional products include ceramics, wrought iron, leather and embroidery. La Calle Feria is lined with shops and workshops and there is a traditional street market every week.

Nightlife

The liveliest areas in Seville for nightlife are around the Plaza de la Alfalfa, Calle Marques de Paradas. Outside the city, the local villages taverns are popular. Sample the local tapas, especially the gazpacho, or other traditional dishes such as menudo (Andalusian-style tripe), spinach with chick peas or fried fish.

Tourist Information

Tourist Office: Avenida de la Constitución, 21 B - 41001 Seville (Seville)Tel. +34 (0)954221404 Fax. +34 (0)954229753otsevilla@andalucia.orgwww.andalucia.org/Seville

Airport

San Pablo Airport is located on the Ctra. Nacional IV, road to Carmona, 10km from the city centre.