We have been to Spain before, visiting beautiful Barcelona and Madrid in 2005, this time heading to the south of Spain with the kids in tow.
There were many cities we wanted to visit in the region, such as Córdoba, Málaga and Granada, but due to limited time have just come to Seville, and will have a day in Ronda on our way to Morocco.
Seville was once the most important city in Europe, and has been shaped by Muslim and Christian influences throughout its history, demonstrated particularly in the Real Alcazar, the royal palace of the Alcazars.
This palace was built Muslim builders, then added to by the Christians later, resulting in a unique hybrid style of colourful tiles and intricate stonework, Moorish arches and gardens. It is one of the most beautiful buildings we have ever seen. Seeing where the scenes for the Water Gardens of Dorne was filmed was an added bonus.
Another very impressive building in Seville is the Plaza de España, a large semicircular building and bustling square built for an exposition in 1929. We tried to impress the kids by showing them that it appeared in a Star Wars movie, though when we arrived the place itself was impressive enough.
For them, though, the highlight was a competitive row in the pond, won by the boys team.
Seville is also well known for the flamenco dance style. There are many dance shows on every night, though we struggled to find one that allowed kids under six, and also one that was on at a reasonable time. We eventually found one that fitted the bill and we all had a very entertaining evening, though glad not to be in the front row which was sprayed with the sweat of the energetic male dancer. Afterwards the kids were dancing in the street, and Olive has bought herself a flamenco dress to bring home.
We spent the remainder of our time in Seville wandering the narrow streets of the old town, and sampling churros and tapas.
Our accommodation was another great Airbnb find, located in part of the old town, and on such a beautiful street that even tour groups came to check it out. The top floor of our four storey apartment was an open terrace perfect for a quiet sangria while relaxing in the cooler evening air after a day walking around town.
Seville is a beautiful town with a lot to offer, we were glad we chose it to represent the region.
