9 Jaw-Dropping Famous Historical Monuments & Landmarks in Seville

When considering where you would like to study abroad, the beauty and quality of life in a destination are key factors. Our students often choose Seville because of its architecture, charm, and the way history surrounds you everywhere. 

Seville is world-renowned for its beautiful architecture, monuments, flamenco, and tapas scene. This lovely Andalusian city oozes a rich history through its quaint neighborhoods, historic churches, and palaces. You will be blown away by the incredible sights Seville has to offer. Make sure to add the following fascinating landmarks to your list during your time in Seville; we have included current entrance fees, but these may vary by the time you get to Sevilla.

Plaza de España- FREE

Built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition, this plaza is anything but ordinary. It is easily one of the most beautiful and extravagant plazas in the world and it contains 52 detailed tile displays for the 52 Spanish provinces. It blends a Renaissance and Moorish Revival style and is wonderful for relaxing in the Spanish sun.

Las Setas- 10-15 euros

This large wooden structure consists of 6 mushroom-shaped parasols located in the city’s old quarter. Even though it doesn’t seem like it really “belongs” in Seville because of its modern architecture, sevillanos grew to love the structure. Visitors can climb to the top to get a wonderful view of the city.

El Real Alcázar- 13.50 euros

The Alcazar was constructed on a Muslim fortress for King Peter of Castille. The blends of Christian influence and Muslim features in this palace and gardens can still be seen. This place is filled with beautiful, bright tile work, small garden passageways, and hundreds of different plants and flowers. Strolling through the gardens, you will see pavos reales (peacocks), exquisite fountains and aqueducts, and exotic trees. This is a great place to visit one afternoon after you finish your classes.

Catedral de Sevilla y la Giralda- 16.37 euros

The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest gothic cathedral in the world. The “Patio de las Naranjas” is just outside the cathedral, which dates back to Moorish times when worshippers would wash their hands and feet in the fountains under the orange trees. You can climb the Giralda, which has stunning panoramic views of the city center. The cathedral was built where a Moorish mosque once stood, so worshippers have used this area for centuries.

Museo de Bellas Artes- 1.50 euros

Found in 1839, this museum holds a collection of works from medieval times through the 20th century, including the Renaissance era and Baroque. Some of the most famous artists in the world have their work on display, including Bartolome Esteban Murillo, Deigo Velazques, Francisco de Goya, and Alonso Cano. 

Torre del Oro- 3 euros to enter

“The Tower of Gold” was built in the 12th century as a military observation tower in Seville. The purpose was to control shipping on the Guadalquivir River. A heavy chain ran underwater from the tower to the other side to prevent enemy ships from sailing through the river. Much of the gold mined in Spanish colonies in the Americas flowed up the Guadalquivir to this tower.

Plaza de Toros- 10 euros

This is the largest and most important bullfighting arena in the world and hosts a festival annually during the Feria de Abril that accommodates 13,000 spectators. Bullfighting is deeply rooted in global historical traditions. Although many are against the practice today, you can still go for a tour inside the plaza to understand the history and archives of world-famous bullfighters. 

Barrio Santa Cruz- FREE

Barrio (neighborhood) Santa Cruz is pure magic as you walk through the maze of small streets. It is vibrant yet quiet and peaceful and full of tapas bars, restaurants, plazas, and boutiques with local ceramics and crafts. Santa Cruz is the oldest neighborhood in Seville, with historic landmarks and orange-tree-lined squares. North American students are amazed at the layout of streets that date to Roman times!

Parque de María Luisa- FREE

The María Luisa park is a large green space to the south of the city that stretches along the Guadalquivir River. This addition to the city is especially great during the hot summer because of the hundreds of exotic trees that shade the streets. Directly next to the Plaza de España, you can enjoy the Moorish fountains and beautiful tile work throughout the park. This park is great for peaceful strolls, bike rides or runs, and romantic horse-and-carriage rides.

Spain is a country where education and fun await you. Seville is unique with its Moorish influence, warm climate, and historic neighborhoods. Our students LOVE it!