As I promised myself yesterday, I woke up very early to have time to observe more of the city. On my list for today: cathedral area, Plaza de Espagna, the river and all these narrow streets, patios and hidden squares.
First of all, I need a good breakfast. Unfortunately, at my hotel they do not have the kitchen, so I should find for myself some place to eat. The receptionist advised the breakfasts at some place across the street, but I do not believe in such advices, because they are usually biased and not very reliable. Luckily, I found nearby the great cafeteria MariquitaBrunch with great food and great service.
Fully packed with food and energized with fresh coffee, I went to my own walking tour around the city. Again, this marvelous Mushrooms Construction (Metropol Parasol) on Plaza de la Encarnacion is on my way, with very beautiful view around. There are some construction works on the Imagen street leading to Metropol Parasol though.
Sevilla, the heart of Andalusia, is widely considered the birthplace and soul of flamenco. And you can meet the numerous shops here, where you can choose the traditional dresses for this dance. Sadly, I do not have much time to experience the show in Sevilla's bars, still it will be something, which would make me visit this place again.
Through the way to the main city attraction I cannot but admiring all this beautiful architecture, which perfectly coexist with tall evergreen palms.
So, the Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and one of the most important landmarks in Seville. It was built between 1401 and 1506 on the site of a former mosque, which explains why some Islamic elements are still visible here. The cathedral is also known for housing the tomb of Christopher Columbus, making it historically significant beyond its architecture.
The building is so large (about 135m long, 76m wide, with a floor area of around 11500 m2) that it took generations of workers, and many of the original architects never saw it completed. As a result, small inconsistencies in design and structure can still be noticed, especially in decorative details.
Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to look inside, but they say it is very impressive too. For example, the central nave there is one of the highest in the world, and the space is designed to feel dark and dramatic, with light coming through stained (and not very colourful as in other European cathedrals) glass windows, which significantly should add to the calm and slightly mysterious atmosphere.
The next remarkable spot to see is the Plaza de Espana, one of the most spectacular squares in Europe. Built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exposition, it was designed to showcase Spain’s history, culture and connection with its former territories.
The plaza forms a huge half-circle, symbolizing Spain embracing its former colonies (such as Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guatemala, Panama, Philippines, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Equatorial Guinea, Dominican Republic).
A wide open square faces a 500-metres long canal, giving it a dramatic, theatrical feel. The canal is crossed by four ornate bridges, each representing one of Spain’s ancient kingdoms (Kingdom of Castile, Kingdom of Leon, Kingdom of Aragon, Kingdom of Navarre).
Finally, along the walls there are 48 colorful benches (azulejos). Each of them represents a different Spanish province with historical scenes, maps and decorative patterns. Actually, there are 50 provinces in Spain, but for some reason two are missing here: Seville and Cadiz.
The plaza sits inside the lush Parque de Maria Luisa. Parque de Maria Luisa is Seville is the main public park, the big shaded oasis. It is considered to be one of the most relaxing and beautiful green spaces in all southern Spain.
It is full of palm trees, orange trees and tropical plants, and designed with romantic pathways, fountains and hidden corners. There is a mix of formal gardens and natural, slightly wild areas. Indeed, it is just perfect for walking, cycling and of course escaping the heat.
I am crossing the Guadalquivir River, the main river, which is flowing through Seville. The length is about 657 kilometres. It starts in the mountains of Andalusia and flows entirely through the southern Spain to the Atlantic near Cadiz.
The Guadalquivir is navigable from the Atlantic, so the ships could sail directly to Seville in earlier centuries, which turned the city into a “seaport in the middle of land”. But not anymore, with time the trade moved downstream to coastal Cadiz.
The Mercado de Triana is a lively covered market in the historic district of Triana, right across the river, next to Puente de Isabel II (Isabel II Bridge).
I came to the market, because I wanted to try fresh tapas here. All in all, I have paid 27 euro (one drink and four pieces of food). Everything was extremely delicious. It was a good lunch for the day.
Coming back to the hotel along the river. I can imagine easily, how these wide riverside promenades are perfect for walking or cycling. And also for meeting sunsets.
There is a bullring in Seville, which is called the Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza, and it is one of the oldest and most famous bullrings in Spain, also known for its white-and-yellow Baroque architecture. It is still used for traditional bullfighting events, so maybe next time I will go there as well.
It is a dessert time! Pastel de Nata, creamy egg custard with a slightly caramelized top in a flaky pastry shell. It is quite popular in Seville, but originally it is from Portugal.
And again, hours of walking through the cozy streets and squares of Sevilla.
Another stop between walks and another dessert. Frozen greek yogurt. Very delicious, and I hope, very healthy as well.
It is a golden hour now, just before sunset, with the special sunlight and magical air for making perfect pictures.
I wish I could stay in one of such local bars for a drink or two. But for now, I am having an alcohol-free lifestyle.
My verdict: Sevilla is the city where I want to come back again and again, especially in Summer season. In my imagination, hot nights with cold Sangria in this marvelous setting should be great. And 30000 steps, which I have made for this day, is not the limit for such place.
