Seville ANDALUCIA

One of the most passionate cities in Spain, Seville offers a wide range of attractions and things to see and do. Visitors flock from all over the world to this vibrant city in Andalucia.

Sevilla is the capital of Andalucia and Spain's fourth largest city. It is dominated by La Giralda and the great cathedral that this minaret tower adjoins Various cultures have left their mark here, from the Romans to the Moors and the Christians. An early carving on the Jerez Gate alludes to the legendary origins of the city: 'Hercules built me, Caesar surrounded me with walls and towers, the King Saint took me.' Sevilla is believed to have been founded by the Iberians. Subsequent occupiers included the Greeks. Phoenicians and the Carthaginians (who named it Hispalis). Around 205 BC the town was taken over by the Romans and it continued to flourish under Julius Caesar. During the 5th century AD it became the capital of the Visigoths.

It was captured in 712 by the Moors, whose long occupation has left magnificent traces of their artistic merits. In 1248 Sevilla was reconquered by Ferdinand III of Castille. But it was the discovery of America which brought fame and prosperity to Sevilla. When Christopher Columbus returned here from his first voyage in 1493. In the 16th and 17th centuries the port became the most important in Spain. During this period.

Often described as Spain's Golden Age, the Sevilla school of painters brought great prestige to the city. Sevilla is a city to explore on foot with the cathedral a good focal point from which to start. The medieval quarter of the Barrio Santa Cruz, nearby, is a delightful maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses adorned with wrought iron balconies, decked with flowers.

A stroll around town reveals mansions squares and lovely parks, such as the Parque de Maria Luisa, the Murillo gardens and those of the Reales Alcazares. The large Plaza de Espana contains a tiny canal. Decorated bridges and fountains. An imposing crescent is adorned with ceramic tiles depicting Spain's provincial capitals Over the bridge is the Triana area, home of the gypsy population. Alternative ways of getting around are by 'Sevilla Tour' buses or with style in a horse drawn carriage.

Well known as the setting for Carmen and other famous operas, Sevilla has long had a romantic image. In the spring, when the heady scent of orange blossom gives Sevilla a special atmosphere, the unique celebrations of Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the exuberant Feria de Sevilla takes place. Great places to see in Sevilla include: