Seville

According to legend, Sevilla was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. It was called Hispalis under the Romans and Isbiliya with the Moors. Its high point in its history was following the discovery of America.

Sevilla lies on the banks of the Guadalquivir. The river can be navigated from Seville all the way to its outlet near Sanlúcar de Barrameda, on the Atlantic coast. In the past the port of Seville played an important role in commerce between Spain and the Americas and it remains today one of the most active river ports of the Iberian peninsula.

Seville is one of the largest historical centres in Europe, it has the minaret of La Giralda, the cathedral (one of the largest in Christendom), and the Alcázar Palace. Part of its treasure include Casa de Pilatos, the Town Hall, Archive of the Indies (where the historical records of the American continent are kept), the Fine Arts Museum (the second largest picture gallery in Spain), plus convents, parish churches and palaces.

It has hosted two international exhibitions (1929 and 1992) and is the administrative capital of Andalucía.

For all its important monuments and fascinating history, Sevilla is universally famous for being a joyous town. While the Sevillians are known for their wit and sparkle, the city itself is striking for its vitality. It is the largest town in Southern Spain, the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro.

The Sevillians are great actors and put on an extraordinary performance at their annual Fería de Abril, a week-long party of drink, food and dance which takes place day and night in more than a thousand especially mounted tents. But above all it allows the men to parade on their fine horses and the women to dance in brilliantly coloured gypsy dresses.

Immediately before that is Holy Week, Semana Santa, a religious festival where hooded penitents march In long processions followed by huge baroque floats on which sit Images of the Virgin or Christ, surrounded by cheerful crowds. Both Spring events are well worth experiencing.

Seville possesses an monumental wealth which is second to none. Strolling through it's neighborhoods is the best way of getting to know the city. Santa Cruz, part of the old Jewish legacy, is narrow streets, the sound of water, gardens where forged steel imitates the natural beauty of flowers, shady, and silent. Triana is the birthplace of flamenco, bullfighting tradition, unique neighborly courts, and streets that maintain the flavor of the old suburbs. It's reflections in the river can be admired from Betis street. Triana is the home of the most artists in ceramics. San Lorenzo is imperious and silent. The splendor of the Macarena district is monopolized by its universal virgin. The María Luisa park and Sierpes Street are world famous. It houses the Plaza de España and Plaza de América which were built for the Latin American Exposition of 1929.

The Triana district, just across the river, is good area for nightlife. Its Calle Betis, along the waterfront, features a popular strip of trendy bars, pubs, clubs, cafes and restaurants. Around town, there are several Disco bars and discotecas, with music such as, Modern Spanish Pop, Hip-Hop, R& B, Salsa, Merengue, Samba, Funky, House, etc. Many of these can also be found in and around the city center, in areas such as Plaza Alfalfa, and Alameda Hercules. In the summer, the action moves to the huge clubs along the river, close by el Puente Alamillo.

If you are looking for a nice hotel in Seville we advise you to visit EasyToBook.com, where you can find a wide variety of hotels for all the budgets.

We try to provide the latest travel and tourist information, including must see attractions, restaurants, nightlife, events, info on car hire Spain can offer, and places to visit away from the crowds.

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