Text & Photos / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Zhang Yawen
Seville (Sevilla), Spain’s fourth-largest city, was ranked first among the “Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2018” by the globally renowned travel guide Lonely Planet. Though perhaps not particularly familiar to Taiwanese people, Seville is a European city that has been ruled by various ethnic groups throughout history, resulting in a blend of Islamic, Jewish, and Catholic cultural influences. The city exudes a rich artistic and humanistic atmosphere. It served as the setting for the opera ‘Carmen’ and is also the birthplace of flamenco dancing.
Seville has been ruled by various ethnic groups and features a blend of Islamic, Jewish, and Catholic cultural influences.
Located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, Seville embodies the country’s vibrant spirit while retaining a more authentic charm than typical tourist areas. Its major attractions are all located within the old town, within walking distance, and the locals are known for their friendliness. Compared to other major European cities, Seville enjoys relatively good public safety, making it very convenient for independent travelers. Below are five must-visit attractions in Seville.
Seville is the birthplace of flamenco dancing, and the city offers many official flamenco dance shows. Some bars and even street performers also feature flamenco performances.
Plaza de España (Spanish Square)）
Spain has many Spanish Squares, but the one in Seville is considered the most beautiful. Many film and television productions have chosen this exotically magnificent location for its scenic backdrops. The palace of Naboo in the movie Star Wars was filmed here, where the romantic scene of Anakin Skywalker falling in love with Queen Padmé is brightly and beautifully depicted.
Seville’s Plaza de España is regarded as the most beautiful Spanish Square.
Built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exposition, the Plaza de España features symmetrical semi-circular arcade architecture. Under the arcades are over fifty alcoves, each representing an important Spanish city. These alcoves are adorned with colorful ceramic tiles that tell the stories of each city.
The long arcade is lined with over fifty alcoves representing important Spanish cities, with colorful tiles narrating their stories.
Alcázar of Seville (Seville Royal Palace)ázares Reales de Sevilla）
The Alcázar of Seville was originally a well-preserved Islamic palace. Over time, due to historical changes, the building integrated Moorish, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Islamic architectural styles. This highly eclectic Alcázar of Seville not only reflects the shifts in political power throughout Seville’s history, but also boasts stunningly intricate carvings and a strong sense of symmetry. Unlike typical European castles, it presents a uniquely exotic and magnificent splendor.
The Water Gardens of Dorne from Game of Thrones.
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