Family Cultural Exploration in Seville

Seville's Sunday Serenade

Today was a beautiful exploration of Seville, a city that continues to enchant me with its blend of history, culture, and vibrant spirit. From the solemn grounds of a legendary bullring to the intimate corners of a historic neighborhood, every moment was a new discovery. Join me as I share the highlights of our day, each experience weaving deeper into the heart of Seville.

Our day commenced with a hearty breakfast at Seni Gastrobar. I had read some mixed reviews, but we decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad we did! It was a delightful start to the day. The fusion cuisine was a pleasant surprise, blending familiar Spanish flavors with innovative twists. Sofia especially loved the patatas bravas, though Klaus found them a bit too spicy for his taste. I enjoyed a lovely café con leche, which gave me the perfect boost of energy for the day ahead. After breakfast, we set off to Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería de Sevilla, Seville's famous bullring. As someone who grew up in Morocco, I’ve always been fascinated by cultural traditions, even those that are controversial. I wanted to understand the history and significance of bullfighting in Spanish culture.


Experience authentic Andalusian cuisine at Seni Gastrobar, Seville's top destination for delicious tapas in a vibrant setting.

We opted for a guided tour, which was incredibly informative. Our guide shared the rich history of the arena, explaining its architectural details and the traditions surrounding bullfighting. Stepping inside the ring was quite an experience. The sheer size and the weight of history were palpable. I could almost hear the echoes of the crowds and the trumpets, imagining the spectacle that has unfolded here for centuries. Sofia was a bit apprehensive at first, but she soon became engrossed in the stories and the artistry behind the costumes and the techniques.


Explore the historic Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballería in Seville, a symbol of Spanish culture and bullfighting tradition.

Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.

While I don't necessarily condone the practice of bullfighting, I respect the cultural significance it holds for many Spaniards. It’s a complex issue, and I believe it’s important to understand different perspectives. Klaus, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the engineering of the building and the logistics of managing such large events. After the bullring, we sought a different kind of spiritual experience at the Capilla de los Marineros. This chapel, located in the Triana neighborhood, is home to the Hermandad de la Esperanza de Triana, a revered brotherhood. The chapel itself is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with intricate details and a serene atmosphere.


Discover the tranquil Capilla de los Marineros in Seville, a stunning chapel that combines rich maritime history with captivating architectural beauty.

The history of the chapel is fascinating. It was originally built in 1759 on the site of the former chapel of the Colegio de Mareantes de Sevilla. Over the years, it has served various purposes, including a warehouse, an Anglican church, and even a theater! In 1953, the Brotherhood of Hope decided to restore it, and it has since become a significant religious site in Seville. We spent some time admiring the artwork and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Sofia was particularly drawn to the statue of the Virgin of Hope, which is beautifully adorned with flowers and candles. I lit a candle for my mother, hoping she is well and at peace, wherever she is. It was a moment of quiet reflection amidst the bustling city.

For lunch, we indulged in a traditional Spanish meal at Restaurante Realcázar. The restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We started with some tapas, including jamón ibérico and gambas al ajillo, both of which were delicious. For the main course, Klaus and I shared a paella de mariscos, while Sofia opted for grilled chicken with potatoes. The paella was rich and flavorful, packed with fresh seafood. Sofia thoroughly enjoyed her chicken, declaring it the best she’d had in Spain so far. We ended the meal with a decadent chocolate cake, which we all shared. Full and content, we were ready for the next adventure: exploring the Santa Cruz neighborhood.


Discover authentic Andalusian flavors at Restaurante Realcázar in Seville's historic Casco Antiguo district.


Discover the charm of Santa Cruz in Seville, where narrow streets, vibrant plazas, and rich history create an enchanting atmosphere for travelers.

Santa Cruz, the old Jewish quarter of Seville, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and hidden squares. As we wandered through the barrio, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The air was filled with the scent of orange blossoms and jasmine, and the sounds of Spanish guitar music drifted from open doorways. One of the highlights of our walk was discovering the Plaza de Santa Cruz, a charming square with orange trees and a beautiful monument. We also visited the Church of Santa María la Blanca, which was once a synagogue. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the neighborhood's rich history. Sofia loved exploring the narrow alleyways, pretending to be a medieval explorer. She was fascinated by the stories of the Jewish community that once thrived here and the religious battles that shaped the neighborhood.

As the afternoon waned, we stopped for a refreshing drink at The Gintonería, a stylish bar known for its gin cocktails. I’m not usually a gin drinker, but I decided to try their signature Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla gin and tonic, and it was surprisingly delicious. The bar had a cool, modern vibe, and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. Klaus enjoyed a glass of local beer, while Sofia sipped on a refreshing lemonade. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. For dinner, we chose T Espacio Gastronómico, drawn by its reputation for innovative Spanish cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was elegant yet welcoming, and the menu was full of intriguing options. We started with a selection of tapas, including croquetas de jamón and patatas bravas, each dish a delightful explosion of flavor.


Discover the essence of Seville's nightlife at The Gintonería, a bar dedicated to gin lovers, offering an exquisite selection and a vibrant atmosphere.


Discover exquisite Mediterranean flavors at T Espacio Gastronómico - where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Seville.

For our main courses, Klaus chose the grilled sea bass, while I opted for the Iberian pork with truffle sauce. Sofia, ever adventurous, tried the oxtail stew, a local specialty. Every dish was beautifully presented and expertly prepared. The sea bass was perfectly cooked, with a crispy skin and flaky flesh. My Iberian pork was tender and flavorful, the truffle sauce adding a touch of luxury. Sofia surprised us all by devouring the oxtail stew, declaring it her favorite dish of the trip so far. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and knowledgeable. They recommended a fantastic local wine that paired perfectly with our meal. It was a truly memorable dining experience. After dinner, we strolled back to Hotel Rey Alfonso X, enjoying the cool night air and the twinkling lights of Seville. The city felt magical, alive with music and laughter. As we walked, we talked about our favorite moments of the day, each of us cherishing different aspects of our Sevillian adventure.


Experience the charm of Sevilla at Hotel Rey Alfonso X, a 4-star sanctuary offering luxury, comfort, and convenience for every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Parque Arqueológico de Carmona, Muelle del atardecer sevillano, and Casa de Los Pinelo. I’m particularly excited about visiting the archaeological park, as I’ve always been fascinated by ancient history. I am also hoping to find some time to do some shopping at Sevilla Shop. It will be our last full day in Seville, and I want to make the most of it. As I sit here writing, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to share my experiences with you. Seville is a city that has captured my heart, and I hope that my words have inspired you to visit and discover its beauty for yourself. Until tomorrow, ¡adiós!