• Martha SleutelSpain 2025-2026Martha Sleutel
    Plaza outside Sevilla Cathedral
    Closer view of towerView of cathedral from Plaza del Triumpho with horse carriage rentalsAn entrance with unique sculptureSouth side facade with orange treesView out window of towerChristopher Columbus' tomb, carried by 4 pallbearers representing kingdoms of SpainThere is writing on the bottom of his tombOpulent interiorInstead of regular dollhouses, there were several of these gold .... whatever they are (miniatures)Me next to column to provide scaleAnother view of interiorWalled, fort-like entrance to Alcazar (Royal Palace)Main entrance and courtyardCenter of palace with reflecting poolCharlie at reflecting poolMoorish-style doorway decorations and architectureIntricate decorationsMore views of Moorish styleBeautiful interiorMercury pool in gardensView of one garden area from elevated walkway

    Sevilla Cathedral Alcazar (Palace/Fort)

    January 2 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 57 °F

    The largest church in Spain and 3rd largest in Europe, the Sevilla Cathedral has Christopher Columbus' tomb. It also has a massive footprint and A LOT of gold. The exterior is square (filling the site of a former mosque). We climbed the tower (36 ramps) to the bell tower (26 bells, which thankfully did not ring while we were there). Why ramps and not steps? It was originally a mosque minaret, and was designed so a donkey could climb the ramps and its rider could give the Muslim call to prayer 5 times a day.

    In the afternoon, we explored the Royal Alcazar, palace for Muslim rulers (10th century), and then the Christian king and Spanish rulers (14th century to current). This place is enormous. As we wandered, we had a heck of a time finding our way out. As if the interior were not labyrinthian enough, the 30 or so gardens are interconnected and immense. Another place to get lost, which we did!    Read more