Exploring Seville's Rich Culture and History

Seville's Sunday Charms: Triana and the Jewish Quarter

Today was all about diving deeper into Seville's character, venturing into the lively Triana neighborhood and getting lost in the historic lanes of the old Jewish Quarter. Lena and I were eager to explore beyond the main tourist spots, seeking out the authentic soul of this vibrant city. It's moments like these that remind me why I love travel blogging – the chance to share these hidden gems with all of you!

We started our day with a delightful breakfast at Seni Gastrobar. It was a cozy spot, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploring. I opted for a traditional Spanish breakfast, while Lena, ever the adventurous one, tried a local specialty. While the food was good, I was a bit disappointed by the limited vegan options.

From there, we ventured into Triana, a neighborhood that feels like a world apart from the rest of Seville. Just across the Isabel II bridge, Triana has a down-to-earth vibe. Triana is considered the colorful gypsy neighborhood of Seville. As we strolled along the riverfront, the views back towards the city center were simply stunning. The Guadalquivir River sparkled in the morning sun, and the air was filled with the sounds of locals going about their Sunday routines.

Our first stop in Triana was the Centro Cerámica Triana, a museum housed in a former ceramics factory. As someone who appreciates both history and craftsmanship, I was immediately captivated. The museum tells the story of Triana's rich ceramic tradition, from its Moorish roots to its heyday in the 20th century. I learned that Triana's ceramics were used to decorate buildings all over Seville, including the Plaza de España. Wandering through the exhibits, we saw original kilns, tools, and of course, a stunning collection of tiles. The intricate designs and vibrant colors were truly mesmerizing. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly fascinated by the artistry and techniques involved. The museum has exhibits in both Spanish and English, which was very helpful. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts, ceramics, or history.


Explore the vibrant heritage of Seville’s ceramics at Centro Cerámica Triana, where art, culture, and craftsmanship come alive.

The soul of a city is found not in its grand monuments, but in the everyday lives of its people and the stories etched into its streets.

After immersing ourselves in the world of ceramics, we decided to grab lunch at Restaurante De La O, which was also in Triana. Located near the Centro Cerámica Triana, it offered amazing views. The restaurant has a modern decor, with a vertical garden. The restaurant emphasizes local products. It was a delightful experience! We were able to snag a table with a view of the Guadalquivir River, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. The menu featured a mix of traditional and modern Spanish dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Lena opted for seafood, while I enjoyed a delicious vegetarian paella. The service was excellent, and the staff were happy to answer our questions about the menu and the local area. This restaurant is among the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in town.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we crossed back over the bridge and headed towards the old Jewish Quarter, also known as Calle Judería. As we stepped into the narrow, winding streets, it felt like we were transported back in time. The Jewish Quarter is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys dating back to the old judería. These narrow streets provide protection from the oppressive sun. The area was once Seville's Jewish quarter, and its history is palpable in every corner. I've always been fascinated by the stories of communities that have shaped the cultural landscape of Europe, and the Jewish Quarter was no exception.


Explore the historic Calle Judería in Seville, a captivating street rich in Jewish heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

We wandered aimlessly, letting the streets guide us. We passed hidden courtyards, ancient synagogues, and charming plazas. The air was filled with the scent of orange blossoms, and the sounds of Spanish guitar music drifted from nearby cafes. It was a truly magical experience. The Jewish Quarter is located within the barrios of Santa Cruz, Santa María la Blanca and San Bartolomé, neighborhoods seeping in history, legends and past intrigues. It was abandoned after the expulsion of the Jews in 1483, and wasn't restored for centuries. I could envision illicit lovers on their opposing balconies stretching out to embrace in the Old Kissing Corner. Spanish street signs were and are still primarily made of ceramics, offering the most decorative options. The oldest signs are shaped by hand.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to do a little souvenir shopping. We stumbled upon Souvenir Alegria de Sevilla, a charming little shop filled with locally made crafts and gifts. I picked up a few small items for my family back in Canada, while Lena found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic tile to add to her collection. We chatted with the shop owner, who shared some fascinating stories about the history of the neighborhood and the local artisans who create the crafts. The shop is a charming gift shop offering authentic mementos and locally made crafts.


Explore the heart of Seville through Souvenir Alegria de Sevilla, a gift shop showcasing authentic local crafts and treasures.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurante Arte y Sabor, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and promise of authentic Sevillian cuisine. And we weren't disappointed! The restaurant was bustling with locals, and the aroma of traditional dishes filled the air. We started with a selection of tapas, including patatas bravas, croquetas, and jamón ibérico. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite. For our main courses, Lena opted for a seafood stew, while I tried a hearty vegetarian casserole. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable. The restaurant is known for serving every meal to perfection. The quality is out of this world. The coconut rice pudding is a must try! I also had the fried milk, which was basically a crispy creme brulee. The restaurant has a wide selection of food and generous portions. The restaurant is known for their house baked cheesecake.


Discover exquisite Moroccan and Andalusian cuisine at Restaurante Arte y Sabor in Seville's vibrant Casco Antiguo district.

As we walked back to our hotel, Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, the city was bathed in the warm glow of streetlights. We reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the soul of Seville. It was a day filled with history, culture, and delicious food – everything that makes travel so rewarding.


Experience the charm of Sevilla at Basic Hotel Doña Manuela, your cozy getaway with modern amenities, central location, and friendly service.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Plaza de América and explore the Parque de las Palomas. I'm particularly excited to see the Palacio de San Telmo, which I've heard is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. And in the evening, we're going to check out Premier Sherry & Cocktail Bar, to try some local sherry.

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a little personal anecdote. As many of you know, I'm also a homebrewer. During our visit to the Centro Cerámica Triana, I was struck by the similarities between the ceramic-making process and the brewing process. Both require a careful balance of art and science, and both rely on the transformative power of heat. It made me appreciate the craftsmanship involved in both pursuits, and it gave me some new ideas for my next batch of beer!

Until tomorrow, fellow travelers!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! As we were walking through Triana, we noticed a lot of excitement in the air. Apparently, the Cabalgata de Triana, a smaller version of the Three Kings Day parade, is happening tomorrow. It starts at 17:00 and ends at 21:00. It's a pity we missed the main parade on January 5th, but it was rescheduled to January 4th due to weather. This is a huge deal, blending old traditions with an exciting parade. I am excited to see the smaller parade tomorrow!