t The sun setting over Seville, seen from the Metropol Parasol
Soaring Gothic cathedrals, a wealth of Moorish treasures and divisive contemporary constructions: the region’s monuments represent the whole spectrum of architectural styles. Marvel at the façades, scale the towers and walk the rooftops to get under the skin of Andalucía.
t The sun setting over Seville, seen from the Metropol Parasol
Although Seville and Andalucía are home to an embarrassment of historical riches, many of the region’s most striking buildings are looking firmly towards the future. When you first set eyes on the Metropol Parasol it won’t be hard to understand why the locals call it Las Setas – “The Mushrooms”. Designed by Jürgen Mayer, it’s formed of six toadstool-shaped wooden pavilions sheltering a market, museum, restaurant and a sweeping walkway. Book a ticket for one of the last entry slots so that you can enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar as the sun sets over the city below.
Vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows and twisted spires were the height of fashion in the 15th century. The finest expression of the Gothic style in Andalucía is also the largest Gothic church in the world: Seville Cathedral. Discover the secrets of its construction on a walking tour of its terraced rooftops.
In the 16th century, buildings were graced with a harmonious balance of fine detail and good taste. Seville’s great monument to the Age of Discovery, the Archivo de Indias, is a prime example of this style. Climb the impressive marble stairs to pore over ancient maps in the elegant vaulted reading rooms. With its soaring twin towers and ornate façade, Jaén’s cathedral is another Renaissance masterpiece. Don’t miss the sacristy, with its religious paintings, sculptures and silverwork.
Andalucía’s long history as a cultural crossroads led to the creation of entirely new styles of architecture. The 19th century saw a Mudéjar revival – the fusion of Moorish and European tastes and techniques. Head for Seville’s Parque María Luisa and rent a rowing boat to take in the Neo-Mudéjar Plaza de España, admiring its curving colonnades, bubbling fountains and beautiful azulejo ceramics.
Great View
The highest point in Seville is the modern Torre Sevilla, which reaches 180 m (590 ft) into the sky. For the best view of the tower itself, head to the top of the adjacent shopping centre.
DISCOVER Seville and Andalucía Your Way
Hernán Ruiz the Younger (1514–1569)
Along with his father and son (all of the same name), Ruiz designed part of Cordoba’s mighty Mezquita.
Eufrasio López de Rojas (1628–1684)
The Baroque architect who masterminded the 17th-century additions to Jaén Cathedral.
Aníbal González (1876–1929)
His flamboyant works include the photogenic Plaza de España.