Cover photo: Anne Scott Turner
When it comes to monuments, Seville certainly has no shortage of them. As with any city worth its salt, there are countless significant buildings that deserve a visit. A look into Seville’s history is all it takes to understand how each period has left its mark, with these buildings standing as witnesses to the city’s unique character and culture.
These are just a selection—the ones you definitely can’t miss—but they aren’t the only ones, as I’ve divided them into palaces, churches, points of interest, and museums.
Plaza de España
Probably the most beautiful monument in Seville. It was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition to represent Spain, which is why its real name is “Pavilion of Spain”. Its magnitude and beauty will amaze you.
Public square within Maria Luisa Park.
Photo: Flickr. Gary Campbell- Hall
Torre del Oro
LThe view of the Guadalquivir River would not be the same without the Torre del Oro. Built by the Almohads in 1224, its original purpose was to protect the river. Its role has changed over the years, and it has become one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks.
Open to the public. Check prices and hours.
Photo: gavilansevilla
Town Hall
The magnificent City Hall is a testament to Seville’s wealth in the 16th century. Its Renaissance Plateresque façade features symbols such as the NO8DO emblem, the Plus Ultra motto, and representations of Hercules and Julius Caesar. But its facade has a few fascinating details to discover…
Not open to the public. Outdoor viewing only.
Photo: Flickr. Gary Campbell- Hall
Las Setas (The Mushrooms)
Highly controversial when they were built due to their visual impact in the heart of the city, today they are one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks. Metropol Parasol, better known as “Las Setas,” offers magnificent views of the entire city.
It’s a public square, but you can go up to its viewpoint.
Photo: Flickr. Paul van der Werf
Hospital de los Venerables
One of the Seville’s hidden gems. This 17th-century former hospice for “venerable priests” (hence the name) is definitely worth a visit. Today, it also serves as the Velázquez Center, so you can admire works by the artist and the spectacular church all within a single monument.
Temporarily closed. Only the church is open to visitors. Check the opening hours.
Photo: Flickr. Gary Campbell- Hall
University
The Former Tobacco Factory, now home to the University of Seville, takes your breath away when you gaze at its facade, which alludes to Seville’s American past. Its famous women tobacco workers toiled here until 1950, inspiring Merimé to write “Carmen”, the famous opera.
Public building (please do not enter the rooms).
Photo: Universidad de Sevilla
Hospital de la Caridad
Founded by Miguel Mañara, this hospital provided shelter to the poor of Seville during the Baroque era, an artistic style that is evident in every detail. It is certainly worth a visit to admire the works of Valdés Leal and other renowned artists, since Murillo’s paintings were stolen by the French in Napoleon times.
Open to the public. Check prices and hours.
Photo: Wikipedia
Saint Telmo Palace
Known as the Palacio de San Telmo, it was actually founded as a school for sailors in 1681. The building, designed by Figueroa, was so beautiful that María Luisa Fernanda, sister of the Queen Isabel II, bought it and turned it into a palace in 1849. Today, it serves as the seat of the Andalusian government.
Not open to the public. Outdoor viewing only.
Photo: Wikipedia
Former Hospital of the Five Wounds (Parliament)
Founded by Catalina de Rivera in the 16th century, the Hospital of the Five Wounds—now the Andalusian Parliament—was located outside the city walls to care for the sick who crowded at its gates. The building served as a hospital until 1972.
Not open to the public. Outdoor viewing only.
Photo: Flickr. Doenjo
Discover these landmarks in the best way possible and book your tour with me:
