The Royal Alcázar of Seville
In the historic center of Seville, very close to the Cathedral and the Archive of the Indies, is one of the most visited monuments in Spain because it is part of the World Heritage Site and for leaving all its visitors astonished. It is the oldest royal palace in Europe which is still in use, not only for visitors but for the Spanish Royal Family.
Do you still need more reasons to visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville? There are still those who live in Seville and haven't yet seen one of their city's must-see monuments. But don't worry! After reading this article, you'll be incredibly eager to explore this magnificent place whose walls and gardens bear witness to centuries of history.
Architecture and nature in unison
During the reign of Philip II, the Italian artist Vermondo Resta He modified the old Arab wall into a gallery from which the palace gardens could be enjoyed. In this Gallery of Grottos The architecture was fused with nature, aiming to imitate a cave. This was a very fashionable artistic technique during the Renaissance.
A great antiquity
The structure on which the Royal Alcázar of Seville It was built on a Roman and later Visigothic settlement. From 720 AD onwards, the Arabs used this site as the residence of their rulers. After the Reconquista of Seville, the monument was occupied by King Ferdinand III, the Saint, and his descendants.
The Dolls' Courtyard
One of the most famous courtyards in Seville is the Doll Courtyard. It gets its name from the nine doll faces carved into the columns of the arches. According to tradition, finding them brings good luck. What are you waiting for?
A secret place in the Royal Alcázar
After exploring the beautiful palaces of the Royal Alcázar, you'll discover an unusual place: an Arab cistern beneath the Patio del Crucero, known as the Baños de María de Padilla (although they aren't baths). Their name comes from a legend that tells of María de Padilla, lover of King Pedro I the Cruel, bathing in them. The truth of this story is that their love was so great that, after her death, the king proclaimed her queen and validated their marriage.
The Legend of the Maidens
The Courtyard of the Maidens, The most famous of these monuments is named after a legend that tells of the Muslim rulers of Seville asking the northern Christian kingdoms for one hundred virgin maidens. It is unknown why the courtyard was named as such. What is known for certain is that the legend of the 100 virgins was a widespread myth in the Middle Ages. This story served to justify the wars of the Reconquista between the Christians.
Stories and legends
The Alcázar has witnessed the greatest moments in our history. According to legend, King King Pedro I the Cruel, married to Blanca de Borbón, summoned his half-brother Don Fadrique in the Royal Alcázar of Seville, where he resided. The King had received news of his wife's infidelity with his half-brother. When the latter appeared at the palace, the two became embroiled in a dispute that ended with the king slitting his half-brother's throat with a dagger. It is said that this event took place in the well-known “Tile Room”"and you can still see the bloodstain on the marble.".
Nowadays
Currently, the Royal Alcázar of Seville Members of the Royal Family or other important figures stay here when they visit the city. On summer nights, we can enjoy the magnificent night concerts in the gardens and throughout the year they can be seen exhibitions temporary.
With all this, you no longer have any excuse not to let yourself be swept away by the magic of the Royal Alcázar of Seville. You will feel the beauty of this monument and its hidden corners that carry its thousand years of history into the present day.
We encourage you to explore it in the Guided tours of the Royal Alcázar of Seville of Culturea Experience, A truly unforgettable experience!