The world’s largest Gothic cathedral is the logical place to begin this list of Sevilla’s principle landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the final resting place of a certain Christopher Columbus, whose tomb can be seen by visitors. Only 5 minutes’ walk from the Centro MundoLengua headquarters, the cathedral of Sevilla is as impressive to look at inside as it is outside, with a fantastic array of ecclesiastical artwork including paintings, icons, carvings and sculptures.

The bell tower may now be adjoined to the cathedral, but in the past it formed part of the mosque that stood on this site. This former minaret is 340 feet tall and can be seen throughout the city. Anybody who manages to climb right to the top is rewarded with fabulous views of the city, and its image is one that always makes true Sevillanos feel at home. After the Castilians captured Sevilla from the Moors in the 12th century, their designs for their cathedral simply accommodated the famous Giralda.

Viewers of the hit television series may recognize this 14^th century palace. Another of Sevilla’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Real Alcázar is said to be the finest example of uniquely Andalusian Mudéjar architecture in the world. One afternoon spent wandering among its patios, corridors, fountains, peacocks, courtyards, pools and of course palace and you will definitely understand why it is so popular.

No neighborhood in Sevilla is quite as magical as Santa Cruz. Its narrow alleyways, enchanted plazas, low archways and cobbled streets of “The Old Jewish Quarter” certainly have a curious ability to keep the modern world at bay. And as you wander the Barrio, gazing up at the countless information plaques that immortalize the stories of countless residents of centuries gone by, you may start to convince yourself you are travelling back in time also.

It hasn’t taken much time for this giant semi-circular edifice to become one of Sevilla’s most popular landmarks. Completed as recently as 1928, the Plaza de España receives thousands of visitors every single day who come to enjoy its delightful array of soaring towers, arching fountain, low bridges, cavernous archways, boating canals and tiled alcoves dedicated to each one of Spain’s provinces. And thanks to its ideal location opposite the 100-acre Parque de María Luisa, it has even been the choice filming location for even a Hollywood director or two.

The ancient and modern faces of Sevilla join forces at one of the city’s most curious landmarks. The Metropol Parasol has been nicknamed “Las Setas” by locals who decided that it resembles a giant mushroom growing up in a gap in the city skyline. Visitors’ eyes are immediately drawn upward to the single largest wooden structure in the world. Below ground lie the accessible remains of Roman-era Sevilla, but as the sun begins to set, make sure you climb to the top in order to enjoy the best evening views possible in the whole city.

Yet that is not all! Other leading landmarks in Sevilla include;

• Torre del Oro; a 13th century watchtower down on the banks of the river that glows a stunning shade of gold in the early evening.
• Archivo de Indias; located close to the Real Alcázar and the cathedral, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses some of Spain’s most important historical archives and documents.
• More museums than you could ever imagine. Some of our favourites are the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, the Archeological Museum of Sevilla, the Sevilla Musuem of Fine Arts and of course, the Flamenco Museum.
• Plaza de Torros; the “Cathedral of Bullfighting” is one of the world’s most famous bullrings.
• Palacio de las Dueñas; the birthplace of poet Antonio Machado, this 15th century palace is known for its unconventional yet very striking combination of both Moorish and Gothic architectural styles.