Plaza de España – one of Seville’s highlights
Plaza de España is one of Seville’s top highlights, in fact it falls in what I call the “Top 3” of highlights in Seville (along with the Cathedral and Real Alcazar). This huge, semi-circular building was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929 (Expo 29). It incorporates different styles of Spanish architecture and has a canal and four bridges in front of it (you can rent small boats to row the canal). Some call the Plaza “the Venice of Seville”. It is a beautiful site and has been featured in different movies including Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia, and as the presidential palace in Sasha barn Cohen’s El Dictador.
The highlights of Plaza de España
The building has two high towers on either side of the building which can be seen from most spots in the city. One of the most beautiful features of the building are the tiled alcoves (each with a bench) that feature colourful murals of Spain’s provinces*.
*There are 50 provinces in Spain but only 48 alcoves – that’s because: a) the Canary Islands only had 1 province in 1928 (it now has two: Gran Canaria and Tenerife), b) Seville province is not represented because it is featured in other murals around the building.
The four bridges that connect the building to the huge square in front of it represent the 4 ancient Kingdoms of Spain: Castile, Aragon, Navarre and Portugal.
While the sheer size of the building (and the square surrounding it) are impressive, what really awed us was the tilework (or azulejos). You’ll see it in the alcoves featuring the various provinces but also along the framing of the building and along the railing of the bridges.
What to do on Plaza de España ?
1) Walk around the square, cross the bridges, and see the 48 provincial alcoves. Climb the steps to the first-floor balconies of the building. Everything is very picturesque (and free).
2) You can rent a boat and row around the canal for a different perspective (cost 5 euros for 45 minutes).
3) Plaza de España is a popular starting point for a horse-drawn carriage ride around Seville (usually around 45 euros for a 40-minute ride).
4) Have your picture taken in traditional Andalusian attire.
5) There’s a lot going on, including flamenco shows on the square.
Where is the Plaza de España?
Plaza de España is located at the northwest end of Maria Luisa Park, a 15-minute walk from Seville’s old town (where you’ll find Seville Cathedral and the Real Alcázar).
It’s also well worth continuing further into the park after exploring Plaza de España. Maria Luisa Park is beautiful, and you’ll see many plants, flowers, and parrots. At the far end of the park is the Archaeological Museum, which is a great (and inexpensive) place to visit on a hot day.
Accommodation in Seville
Some recommendations: Hotel Fernando III (an elegant hotel with a swimming pool, very well located, and offering beautiful views. Good value for money). Budget option: For You Hostel Sevilla (one of the nicest hostels you can find).
Related: Seeing the highlights of Seville- and saving money!
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