A Solo Journey Through Seville's Historic Heart

Seville's Historic Embrace

After a smooth flight from Leipzig and a quick taxi ride, I finally arrived in Seville, ready to dive headfirst into its rich history and vibrant culture. As a librarian specializing in ancient Greek history, I’ve always been fascinated by the layers of civilization that have shaped Europe. Seville, with its blend of Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences, promised to be a captivating experience. Today, my itinerary was packed with visits to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and I couldn't wait to get started.



My day began with a hearty breakfast at El Librero Tapas Y Quesos. The cozy atmosphere was perfect for easing into the day. I savored some local cheeses and strong coffee, fueling up for the adventures ahead. The staff was incredibly friendly, offering recommendations and making me feel right at home. It reminded me of the small, family-run tavernas in Livadeia, where hospitality is a way of life. After breakfast, I made my way to the Catedral de Sevilla, a truly awe-inspiring structure.


Experience authentic Andalusian cuisine at El Librero Tapas Y Quesos in Seville – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.


As I approached the cathedral, its sheer size and grandeur took my breath away. Built on the site of a former mosque, the Catedral de Sevilla is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. The vision of the city’s ecclesiastical authorities in 1401 was certainly achieved; this place is immense! I spent hours wandering through its naves, marveling at the intricate details of the architecture and the stunning stained glass windows. The Capilla Mayor, with its astonishing gold altarpiece, was particularly breathtaking. It was fascinating to learn that construction began in 1403 and was completed in 1507, a testament to the dedication and skill of the craftsmen involved.


Explore the stunning Catedral de Sevilla, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing Gothic architecture and rich history in the heart of Seville.

History is not just a collection of dates and facts; it's a living, breathing narrative that connects us to the past and informs our present.

Next, I ascended La Giralda, the bell tower of the cathedral. Originally built as the minaret of the Great Mosque of Seville during the Almohad dynasty, it offers a unique blend of Islamic and Christian architectural styles. Climbing to the top was an experience in itself, not withstanding the fact that the views of Seville from above were simply spectacular. I could see the entire city sprawling beneath me, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops and bustling streets. It was amazing to think that this tower had once been the tallest building in Spain for over 800 years. The Giralda has survived earthquakes and transformations, standing as a symbol of Seville’s resilience and multicultural history. The climb was gradual, thanks to the ramps originally designed to allow the muezzin to ride a horse to the top. It made me think of Sophia, my daughter; she would have loved the novelty of that!


Explore La Giralda, Seville's majestic bell tower, a stunning blend of Moorish and Renaissance architecture with breathtaking views of the city.


After descending from the Giralda, I visited the Archivo de Indias, a short walk from the cathedral. This archive, housed in the former merchant guild building, contains a wealth of documents related to the Spanish Empire in the Americas and Asia. As a librarian, I was in my element, surrounded by centuries-old manuscripts and maps. The building itself, designed by Juan de Herrera, is an Italianate example of Spanish Renaissance architecture and is very impressive. I could easily spend days here, poring over the archival materials and uncovering stories of explorers, conquistadors, and indigenous peoples. It was established in 1785 by King Charles III with the aim of keeping in a single place the documents referred to the Indies, as Spaniards used to call their American colonies. It’s fascinating to consider how much of history is preserved in places like this, waiting to be discovered and interpreted. I made a note to myself to see if Hans-Peter might be interested in exploring the archives with me sometime; he loves a good historical mystery.


Discover the rich history of Spain at the Archivo de Indias in Seville, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with captivating colonial documents and exhibitions.


For lunch, I ventured to Restaurante San Marco Santa Cruz, known for its Italian cuisine. After so much immersion in Spanish history and architecture, a change of pace was welcome. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the service was excellent. I enjoyed a delicious pasta dish and a glass of local wine, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the morning’s adventures. I overheard a couple speaking German at the next table, and it gave me a pang of homesickness for Leipzig. I made a mental note to call Sophia later and tell her all about my day.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurante San Marco in Seville – where every dish tells a story of flavor.


In the evening, I decided to experience Seville’s vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Garlochí. This bar is famous for its unique décor, filled with religious statues, paintings, and incense. It felt like stepping into another world, a world of Catholic kitsch taken to an extreme. The signature drink, Sangre de Cristo, was a bit too sweet for my taste, but the atmosphere was unforgettable. The bar was quite crowded, and I found myself chatting with a local who shared stories about Seville’s Semana Santa celebrations. He told me the name Garlochí means heart in Gypsy language. It was an experience that I am unlikely to forget. I must remember to tell Hans-Peter not to get any ideas about redecorating our living room in a similar style!


Experience the heart of Seville at Bar Garlochí, where delicious tapas and vibrant nightlife create unforgettable memories.


Finally, for dinner, I went to La Bartola, a tapas bar known for its modern cuisine and reasonable prices. The place was bustling with activity, and I had to wait a bit for a table, but it was well worth it. I tried several tapas dishes, including the zucchini ravioli and the grilled squid, each bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to end a long and fulfilling day. The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere was lively, making it a memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Andalusian flavors at La Bartola - where every dish tells a story in the heart of Seville's Casco Antiguo.


As I walked back to my hotel, Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, located in the heart of the Jewish quarter, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. The hotel is charming and conveniently located, making it easy to walk to all the major attractions. Seville had already captured my heart, and I knew that the next few days would be filled with even more discoveries.


Experience the charm of Seville in Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, a cozy retreat in the historic Jewish quarter with easy access to iconic landmarks.


Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville, Casa de Pilatos, and Murillo Gardens. I’m particularly excited about the Alcázar, with its stunning Moorish architecture and lush gardens. I’ve read so much about its history, and I can’t wait to see it with my own eyes. For breakfast, I intend to try El Pasaje Santa María la Blanca, followed by lunch at Az-Zait restaurante, and dinner at Restaurante La Azotea. I might also pop into Ceramica Santa Cruz to pick up a few souvenirs. It promises to be another day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights.



Seville is a city that truly comes alive, blending history and culture in a way that is both captivating and inspiring. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!