Our journey through southern Spain was an immersion into the vibrant heart of Andalusia, beginning in the magnificent city of Seville. As the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of this captivating region, and ranking as the fourth largest metropolitan area in Spain, Seville immediately impressed with its historical grandeur and lively atmosphere.
Upon arrival, we were eager to experience one of Andalusia's most iconic cultural expressions: Flamenco. We attended a show at El Palacio Andaluz, a popular venue for this passionate art form. The 1.5-hour Flamenco show was a powerful demonstration of singing, dance, and guitar playing, deeply rooted in Andalusian tradition. The raw emotion conveyed through the impassioned singing (cante), the intricate rhythms created by the guitar (toque), and the intense, expressive footwork and hand movements of the dance (baile) were captivating. Seeing the dedication and artistry of the performers in this setting was a truly unforgettable experience. We learned that numerous other Tablaos, or professional Flamenco bars, can be found throughout Seville, each offering a chance to witness this moving performance style up close.
The next morning, we explored the city's historical center, dominated by the immense Cathedral of Seville. Begun in 1402 and with construction continuing well into the 16th century, it stands today as a monumental testament to Gothic architecture. It holds the distinction of being the largest of all Roman Catholic cathedrals in the world and is considered the largest Medieval Gothic religious building. Stepping inside is an awe-inspiring experience; the sheer scale of the interior is breathtaking, with vast vaulted ceilings and light filtering through stained glass windows. The decoration within is incredibly opulent, featuring a large quantity of gold used liberally in altarpieces, chapels, and decorative elements, reflecting the immense wealth and devotion of the era. The Cathedral also houses a large collection of religious jewelry items, paintings, and sculptures, making it a significant repository of sacred art. A particularly poignant stop is the tomb of Christopher Columbus, a grand monument commemorating the famous explorer.
Just a short walk from the Cathedral, located within the beautiful Maria Luisa Park, lies The Plaza de España, undeniably one of Seville's most easily recognised and visually stunning buildings. Designed by Aníbal González for the 1929 Spanish-American Exhibition that Seville hosted, the Plaza is a breathtaking example of the Moorish Revival style in Spanish architecture, blending elements of Renaissance and Moorish design with local materials like brick and ceramics. The Plaza is laid out as a huge half-circle, with continuous buildings running along its edge, creating an expansive and dramatic space. A picturesque moat runs along the front of the buildings, crossed by numerous beautiful bridges, each uniquely tiled, adding to the visual charm and allowing access to the central plaza. The intricate ceramic tiles depicting maps and historical events of Spanish provinces further enhance the Plaza's beauty and historical narrative. Fans of cinema might also recognize the Plaza, as it was famously used as a setting for the planet Naboo in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, although it was digitally modified for the film.
Our journey then took us to the beautiful city of Granada the following day. The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the magnificent Alhambra Palace. This vast complex is a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th Century, the last Moorish rulers of Spain, and stands as a paramount example of Islamic art and architecture. The mighty compound of buildings is sprawling and diverse, including the exquisite Nazari Palaces with their intricate stucco work, serene courtyards, and tranquil reflecting pools, showcasing a refined beauty that speaks of a golden age. Within the complex is also the famous summer palace called Generalife, renowned for its stunning fountains and gardens, offering a peaceful retreat with the soothing sound of water and lush greenery. At the center of the Alhambra complex stands the massive Palace of Charles V, an imposing structure that contrasts sharply with the delicate Moorish palaces, representing an outstanding example of Spanish Renaissance architecture with its grand, circular courtyard.
Overlooking the city from the North is the Sacromonte hill, famous for its unique cave dwellings and its historical connection to Granada's large gypsy community. While we didn't venture into the caves, the hill is known for offering iconic views back towards the Alhambra and the city below, a breathtaking perspective that captures the historical layers of Granada.
Exploring the Granada downtown area proved to be quite fun, with its lively streets and interesting shops. A striking and very Spanish sight you will often see is shops hanging lots of pig legs for sale. These are the famous hams, known as "pata negra" or "black hoof," referencing the characteristic dark hooves of the pigs they come from. We learned that these are Hams of the finest quality, produced from pigs of the Iberian breed, specifically known for their dark coat and black hoofs. The sight of these prized hams hanging in windows and shops is a visual hallmark of Spanish food culture, particularly prominent in Andalusia.
Our journey through Seville and Granada offered a deep dive into the history, culture, and flavors of Andalusia. From the passionate performances of Flamenco and the awe-inspiring architecture of Seville's Cathedral and Plaza de España, to the exquisite Moorish legacy of Granada's Alhambra, the unique character of Sacromonte, and the ubiquitous presence of the esteemed pata negra ham, the experience was a vibrant tapestry of Spanish heritage.
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