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6 April, 2018

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The Spanish Inquisition: Dark Legends of Seville
 <p>Discover the stories and tales surrounding the neighbourhood of Triana, where the seed of Seville’s popular character is focused. The area is an ideal setting for the origin and development of many legends and myths surrounding the most characteristic places of the neighbourhood, located on the other side of the Guadalquivir River. </p>   <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>   <h3><strong>The Plaza del Altozano, on the shores of the Guadalquivir River</strong></h3>   <p>The Castle of San Jorge, a Visigoth fortification, was and continues to be a protagonist in the dark legends of Seville as it was the headquarters of the Holy Inquisition starting in the year 1481 and was the principal reason for amplifying the Plaza del Altozano. A few years later, the aforementioned plaza, having been amplified after the demolition of the Castle of San Jorge, was the location chosen to build what is now the Triana Market. It is currently possible to visit the ruins, which are conserved today, of what was once the leading location of the inquisition and discover the mysteries and details that surround the dark history of the building. </p>   <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>   <h3><strong>Triana Market: Castle of San Jorge</strong></h3>   <p>Also known was the Castle of the Inquisition, given that the Holy Office occupied it during various centuries, the Castle of San Jorge was set up as a strategic location to store cereal, grape vines and olive crops. As the years went on, the castle became part of one of the most important city suburbs in the area, the neighbourhood of Triana, where the population began to grow considerably and where it was possible to dominate one of the shores of the Guadalquivir river, making it a main water source. Its geographic location also paved a more direct path to the city of Huelva, which at the time, was the leading commercial port. </p>   <p>Those who were found guilty of heresy were sent to the Castle of San Jorge and rumour has it, that they may not have committed any crimes but had simply been pointed out by neighbours because of resentment or petty jealousy. Currently, there are still remains of what was once either the home of the caretaker or notary, horse stables, kitchen, wine cellar, the house of the first inquisitor or the family of the inquisitor. If you wish to visit these ruins, you will need to go through the Triana Market to see them but it is possible.</p>   <p>Activity at the Castle of San Jorge was dormant from the years 1481 to 1785. Its interior housed 26 jail cells, which were considered in the 17<sup>th</sup> century to be “caverns of horror” by the Holy Office itself. The Castle of San Jorge had the structural defect of suffering from relatively frequent flooding, as it was located next to the river. When the tide rose, it completely flooded the interior of the castle, which paved the way for the spread of a series of minor epidemics, in that area specifically, as well as throughout the city. </p>   <p>Nowadays, it is possible to enter and visit the Castle of San Jorge Museum, popularly known as the Museum of the Inquisition, which displays throughout various exposition halls, the conserved remains of the era in question. The Sensory Room, for example, explains various actions that were carried out by the Holy Inquisition, such as the value judgment, the abuse of power or the powerlessness of the victims. The Barbacana Hall, with an interpretive hallway, displays a series of models and panels that narrate the situations that took place there over the years and a series of remains, such as the jail walls or the chapel, are there to finish off the visit and reflect. </p>   <div style="height:25px" aria-hidden="true" class="wp-block-spacer"></div>   <h3><strong>Inquisition Alley</strong></h3>   <p>In the 15<sup>th</sup> century, these 35 metres were the last metres of life for a large number of people arrested for heresy and condemned by the Court of the Inquisition. The Castle of San Jorge was built by the Visigoths, who created a fortification next to the river to defend the city of Spalis, a Visigoth name that was given to the city at the time. As the 15<sup>th</sup> century advanced, the castle began to lose its relevance and become the leading headquarters for the Inquisition. By way of this alley, prisoners were brought in or rather they were taken to jail to be judged, or condemned to be hanged for heresy and traitors of the Catholic religion. </p>   <p>The Court of the inquisition remained active until the year 1820, when King Ferdinand VII decided to abolish it. This date also coincides with the demolition of the Castle of San Jorge, of which today only remains the narrow alleyway. Currently, legend says that in the silence and tranquillity of the night, it is possible to hear the chains being dragged along the floor and the cries of those who were imprisoned. </p>   <p>These are not the only remnants left from the inquisition. The Cruz de Las Siete Cabezas (The Cross of Seven Heads), also known as the Cross of the Inquisition, was placed in the San Francisco Plaza in remembrance of the last declaration of faith held by the Holy Inquisition. Currently, it is located in Plaza Nueva, where the audience stood in the old Convent Casa Grande de San Francisco. </p> 
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Monumental Seville: The Royal Alcázar, the Cathedral and the Torre del Oro
 <p>Seville is an impressive city in many aspects, whether it be for its culture, its climate or its gastronomy. However, undoubtedly one of the best surprises for visitors of this Spanish city are the monuments located throughout the historic city centre. In the sections ahead, we will highlight three that are considered mandatory to see during a <a href="https://sevillagreensuites.com/en/a-panoramic-route-through-seville/">visit to Sevilla</a>: The Royal Alcázar, the Cathedral and the Torre del Oro (Gold Tower). Don’t miss out!</p>   <h2><strong>Royal Alcázar of Seville</strong></h2>   <p>The Royal Alcázar, or Royal Palace in English, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site beginning in 1987 along with the Cathedral and the India Archives building. It is also currently the oldest active Royal Palace in Europe. This monument is worth a visit not only for its <strong>great historic importance</strong> for the city but also because it is one of the most beautifully artistic and interesting sets of buildings, architecturally speaking in Seville, marrying both <strong>the Mudéjar and Renaissance styles</strong>. </p>   <p>This fortification was built on <strong>a Roman settlement</strong>, which holds within each wall and corner a vast number of stories and legends that continue to cultivate interest among visitors. One interesting legend tells the story of King Don Pedro I, The Cruel, who was married to Blanca of Bourbon. He ordered his step brother Don Fadrique to the Real Alcázar (Royal Palace) because he had heard rumours that his wife had been unfaithful with him. When he reached the palace, both began to fight and it ended in the death of the King’s stepbrother, with a dagger. The legend says that the event took place in the “Sala de los Azulejos”, or the Tile Room, and the blood stain can still be seen today on the marble. </p>   <p>For <strong>Game of Thrones (HBO)</strong> fans, the Royal Alcázar of Seville was used as a location for the fifth and sixth seasons as a backdrop representing <strong>the Kingdom of Dorne</strong>. Also in Seville, the cast recorded scenes from the aforementioned seasons at Itálica, which was the location for the Dragon pit in King’s Landing and the Pit of Daznak in Meereen.</p>   <h2><strong>The Cathedral</strong></h2>   <p>A visit to the Cathedral during your trip to Seville is a mandatory stop on your way. It would be a shame to miss out on one of the most unique architectural and artistic treasures in the world. Its walls hold centuries of Sevillian history and undoubtedly, the Cathedral deserves to be visited. It is the largest gothic cathedral in the world, reaching more than <strong>116 metres in length and 76 metres</strong> wide as well as being the third largest Christian church after Saint Peter’s in the Vatican and San Paul’s in London. </p>   <p>Just like many other temples located in Andalusia, The Cathedral was built on top of an <strong>old Muslim mosque</strong>, which explains why it has a rectangular floor, which is more characteristic of basilicas and not cathedrals. It also has a minaret (the Giralda) and a patio (The Patio of the Orange Trees). In fact, when transforming the mosque into the current Catholic church, it needed a bell tower, so the builders took advantage of the old minaret from which the muezzin called the Muslims to prayer, and constructed a bell tower, which is currently <strong>the Giralda</strong>. </p>   <p>Its origin dates back to the year 1401 and it is said that the Cathedral “breathes” because the vaulting arches expand daily according to the change in temperature and it is this “breathing” which allows the rigidity of the rock to not crack, making the building more secure and durable.</p>   <h2><strong>Torre del Oro</strong></h2>   <p>The Torre del Oro, or <strong>Gold Tower</strong> in English, sits on the shores of the <strong>Guadalquivir river </strong>and is located on Paseo Cristobal Colón (Christopher Columbus Avenue). A spot which is ideal to walk around and discover the views that the city and its river have to offer. Undoubtedly, this site is highly recommended if you are considering visiting Seville and want to see one of its most iconic monuments. The history surrounding the construction of this watchtower begins in 1221, when the last Almohad governor Abu-I-Ula gave the orders for it to be built to defend the city by placing a chain that passed through the river from one end to the other so that the attacking ships could not enter.</p>   <p>The origin of the name “Gold Tower” is attributed to its golden shine reflected from the outer walls onto the Guadalquivir. Literally, the “gold” appearance comes from <strong>a mixture of compressed lime and straw </strong>that was used to coat the tiles of the tower. However, there is a legend in reference to the name of the tower that states it could be because of the gold that came from South America. However, it is known that the goods arriving from “India” were saved in the Treasure Room in the <strong>House of Trade in Seville</strong>. </p>   <p>Regarding its structure, the Gold Tower has <strong>three different bodies</strong>: a lower dodecagonal floor, a hexagonal middle area and lastly a higher circular area and two bronze cannons at the entrance. Currently, it is the <strong>Naval Museum</strong> where one can view mock-ups, historic documents, engravings, maps and other navigation tools used by the city’s ancestors.</p> 
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A Panoramic Route Through Seville
 <p>If you are considering taking a panoramic route through one of the most beautiful cities in the world, do not hesitate to follow our recommendations and discover the most incredible locations and monuments in Seville. You will see the largest gardens in the entire southern city, passing through the only navigable river in Spain until you reach the largest gothic cathedral in the world. Are you ready to come along?</p>   <h2><strong>The Jewish Quarter </strong></h2>   <p>The Jewish Quarter, known as the Judería in Spanish, is one of the best locations to capture the essence of Seville. Take a trip through the historic narrow streets, feeling as though you are transported back to the Jewish neighbourhood around the year 1248. The Jewish neighbourhood has a particular layout of streets filled with nooks and crannies where one can easily get lost and discover the legends the envelop the Santa Cruz neighbourhood with a halo of charm and mystery that make it unique. The Hospital of the Venerable Priests, the Santa Cruz Plaza or the Streets of Agua and Vida (water and life) are just a few of the most important spots to see. Undoubtedly, this is a must on your visit in order to take in the feelings and memories of the past and to characterise the history of the southern Spanish city. </p>   <h2><strong>Real Alcázar</strong></h2>   <p>This Sevillian Royal Palace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is currently the oldest royal palace in use within Europe. Just like the Jewish Quarter, this monument is a must see during your trip to the city, not just because of its architectural and artistic value, as it is a fortress built on a Roman settlement, but also because of the large amount of stories that are conserved within the walls and that nowadays continue to generate interest for visitors. One important site is the Courtyard of the Dolls, where nine doll faces are carved into the columns of the arches that, according to tradition, bring good luck if you can find them.</p>   <h2><strong>Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede </strong></h2>   <p>This is the largest gothic cathedral in the world and the third largest catholic temple after Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and Saint Paul’s Cathedral in London. Therefore, the cathedral is one of the most frequently visited monuments within the city and each year takes in thousands of visitors coming from different parts of the world. Its origin dates back to the year 1401 and was constructed on top of an old mosque with a minaret (The Giralda) and a patio (Patio of the Orange Trees), which is still conserved to date. </p>   <h2><strong>The Giralda</strong></h2>   <p>Most commonly referred to as the Giralda, the cathedral bell tower was the highest tower in all of Seville and Spain throughout centuries, reaching about 104 metres in height. Currently, it is the second tallest tower in the Spanish city, after the construction of the Pelli Tower. As a fun fact, the Giralda has 35 ramps, because in its origin the Sultán travelled up to the highest part of the tower on horseback to be able to see the incredible sights of the city. This fact was detailed by the author Dan Brown in his novel which took place in Seville, <em>The Digital Fortress</em>, although the author modified the ramps for stairs. </p>   <h2><strong>Plaza de España </strong></h2>   <p>Known as The Spanish Plaza in English, this is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Seville due to its majesty and enormity. Starting in the year 1929, when it was constructed by Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exposition, it drew in thousands of tourists. Additionally, it holds 48 benches representing all of the provinces in Spain, although technically there should be 50 in total because Seville is missing from this section and represented on other murals within the plaza as well as Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Those two appear simply as Canarias because when the plaza was built, the island was just one province. This location has been the site for many cinematographic works such as Lawrence of Arabia or the Wind and the Lion as well as other more modern works such as Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and the Dictator. </p>   <h2><strong>Maria Luisa Park </strong></h2>   <p>This park holds many treasures such as the Glorieta de Bécquer (Roundabout of Bécquer), Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island), Monte Gurugú ( Mount Gurugú) or the Plaza de America (American Plaza). Catalogued as a property of cultural interest, this park has a total of 34 hectares in extension and its origin dates back to 1849. Antonio de Orléans, then Duke of Montpensier, placed a French gardener named Lecolant in charge of the design of what would later be a majestic garden for his palace. After the Duke passed in 1893, Maria Luisa of Bourbon, his widow, donated all of the gardens to the city and are currently open for the public to enjoy. </p>   <h2><strong>Torre del Oro </strong></h2>   <p>The Torre del Oro, or Gold Tower in English, is located on the shores of the Guadalquivir river. It reaches a height of 36 metres and starting from its origin has been a symbol of defence for the city. It was built in 1221 by the last Almohade governor Abu-l-Ula to control the ships entering into the port with a chain that was displayed from the foot to the other side of the river. It has three differentiating bodies, a lower dodecagon plant, a hexagonal intermediary and lastly, a superior circular plant and two bronze cannons at the entrance. Currently, it is a naval museum that holds mock-ups, engravings, navigation tools, marine charts and other historic wonders.</p>   <h2><strong>Plaza de Toros </strong></h2>   <p>The Royal Cavalry Armory of Seville, commonly known as the Plaza de Toros or the Bullfighting Ring, was constructed between 1761 and 1880. It was designed by the architect San Martin in 1758. Regarding the plaza, the ground floor is almost circular and its roof holds the highest scaffolding that rests on semicircle arches and marble columns, a particular characteristic which makes this plaza different. The famous Prince Box, is set aside for the highest authority when they attend a bull fight, which remains from the first phase of construction in the year 1765. </p>   <h2><strong>The Encarnación Mushrooms </strong></h2>   <p>Seville is a national and international tourist destination and just like other European cities, has recently carried out risky and innovative projects. The Metropol Parasol, more well known as the Encarnación Mushrooms due to their shape, is located in the historic section of the city, which was originally the home of the Encarnación convent which, years later, became the central market for the city. It was eventually torn down in 1973 because of construction problems. </p>   <h2><strong>Antiquarium Museum</strong></h2>   <p><em>This is an interactive museum that explains the history of the city through the Roman and Almohade archaeological discoveries that were found during the excavations of the Encarnación plaza listed above. TheAntiquarium museum is 5,000 m2 divided into three large areas: an area for main access surrounded by glass where the images are protected, an archaeological room with the remains found and a multiuse space. </em></p>   <h2><strong>Seville Aquarium </strong></h2>   <p>This centre has the largest amount of biodiversity in Europe. Throughout its 3,000 m3 of water, it is possible to observe some 400 marine life species and more than 7,000 specimens, among those highlighted, the bull shark, Matmata turtles and a giant squid. The aquarium also recreates the expedition that Magallanes and Elcano made in 1519 where visitors can submerge themselves in the marine depths of the planet. </p>   <h2><strong>The Guadalquivir River </strong></h2>   <p>The Guadalquivir, which the Romans called the Betis, is the only navigable river in all of Spain and crosses through all of Andalusia throughout its 657 km. It has been the protagonist of many historic moments of the city throughout the many sieges and conquests and it played a starring role in the first trip around the world. The trip that was begun by <a href="https://sevillagreensuites.com/en/experience-andalusia-outdoors-this-summer/">Magallanes and Elcano</a> sailing their ships toward Sanlúcar de Barrameda to start the circumnavigation of the Earth. </p> 
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