Recently updated on June 17th, 2020 at 02:43 pm
Seville summons the senses with its ochre palaces, fragrant orange blossoms, exuberant flamenco dancers and roughly 4,000 tapas bars. The historical city has an array of beautiful landmarks worth seeing, such as the tomb of Christopher Columbus, Giralda Tower and Plaza de España. However, there are many monuments that do not appear in guidebooks. Discover some of the best-hidden gems of Seville away from the crowds.
Casa de Pilatos
Casa de Pilatos is one of the biggest private residences of Seville and used to film Lawrence of Arabia. The palace originally dates back to the 15th century, although most of it was built in the 16th century by the first Marquis of Tarif. Its Mudejar stucco work, Roman statuary, and gorgeous courtyards make it the perfect place to hide from the scorching sun.
La Alameda De Hercules
Only a few minutes’ walk from one of Seville’s oldest churches, Omnium Sanctorum, these two Roman columns keep Julius Caesar and the mythological founder of the city, Hercules, aloft. The Alameda, the surrounding area, is home to trendy bars, bohemian cafés, and stylish restaurants.
Monasterio de Santa Paula
There are many churches and cathedrals that were built in the Baroque period. If you prefer a bit of variety, head to one of the only convents that’s occasionally open to the public. Set up in the 15th century and still home to 40 nuns, Santa Paula contains two galleries, gardens and statues, as well as a delicious range of homemade jams for sale.
City Walls
Once completely enclosed by Roman and Medieval walls, Seville decided they were ruining the city’s expansion plans during the country’s ‘Glorious Revolution’ of 1868. Though demolished, there are still parts that remain mostly between the Macarena and Carmona gates, which visitors can walk along.
Metropol Parasol
The world’s largest wooden structure, this jigsaw of 8,000 pieces connected with steel and glue dominates central Seville. Though it was initially controversial among locals, its terraced walkways, stunning views and dreamlike appearance appears to have won them over.
Museo de Bellas Artes
Second only to the Prado, Museo de Bellas Artes is perhaps not a secret of Seville, but nonetheless, too many visitors miss out on a visit here. With roots stretching back to the 16th century, it once existed as a convent. Today, Museo de Bellas Artes houses some of Spain’s greatest artists, from El Greco and Zurbarán to Velázquez and Murillo.
Seville has plenty of little alleys, secret convents and charming courtyard to explore…you just have to know where to look. Book a trip here to see these secret sites in Seville for yourself.
Image Credits: Metropol Parasol © iStock/Charles03. Casa de Pilatos © iStock/Stevebphotography. City Walls © iStock/Alphotogrpahic. La Alameda De Hercules © iStock/daneroner. Museo de Bellas Artes © WikiCommons/TimAdams. Monasterio de Santa Paula © WikiCommons/José Luis Filpo Cabana.