One of the most beautiful palaces in the entire world is located in the pretty and historic city of Seville in Andalusia, Spain. The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace that was originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site regarded as one of the most outstanding examples of mudéjar architecture. It is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe and is still occupied by the royal family as the official Seville residence to this day. Just find a vacation rental in Andalusia and come see this truly extraordinary building for yourself.
Various different structures existed on the site of the palace, as do earlier fortifications for local rulers, the current building, however, largely dates to the 12th and 13th centuries. The Almohades were the first to build a palace, that was called Al-Muwarak, on the site of the modern day Alcázar.
Various different structures existed on the site of the palace, as do earlier fortifications for local rulers, the current building, however, largely dates to the 12th and 13th centuries. The Almohades were the first to build a palace, that was called Al-Muwarak, on the site of the modern day Alcázar.
In the following centuries, different rulers, additions and periods affected the appearance of the building from the Arabic period to the late Middle Ages Mudéjar period right through to the Renaissance, the Baroque era, and the 19th century.
As much as the great beauty of the palace seems like something from a fairytale or fantasy novel, the gardens are just as lovely. If it all seems a little familiar as you wander and take in the scent of orange trees, that makes sense as the palace has been a filming location for movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven and, most recently, television series such as the fifth season of Game of Thrones.
As much as the great beauty of the palace seems like something from a fairytale or fantasy novel, the gardens are just as lovely. If it all seems a little familiar as you wander and take in the scent of orange trees, that makes sense as the palace has been a filming location for movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven and, most recently, television series such as the fifth season of Game of Thrones.
Visits to the palace are possible today and going on one of the guided tours is recommended, though these are in high demand, so it is advised to book well in advance of your trip. The opening hours are October to March from Monday to Sunday, 9:30 until 17:00. From April to September, you are able to visit Monday to Sunday from 9:30 until 19:00. The Alcazar is closed from January 1st until the 6th, as well as on Good Friday and the 25th of December. Regular tickets cost €9.50, and are €2 for students (ages 17-25) and pensioners. Entrance for the disabled, those under sixteen years of age, and residents of Seville is free. Set aside at least two hours for your visit as there is lots to see!