logo
ic_menu
This is an affiliate link, we may receive a commission from the vendor, but the price is the same for you
BOOK ACTIVITY

Royal Alcázar of Seville

Plaza del Patio de Banderas, Sevilla, Andalucía

Description

The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace built by Castilian Christians on the site of the (Abbadid) Muslim residential fortress (known as an alcazar) destroyed during the conquest of the city in 1248. It was developed in stages between the 13th and 18th centuries and thus added several styles over time: Romanesque, Gothic, Islamic, Renaissance and even Baroque after the renovation required post-1755 Lisbon earthquake. The tile decoration using arista and majolica techniques are a defining feature of the interior. Other highlights include the main entrance "Puerta del León", the beautifully carved Patio de la Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens), the Salon de Embajadores (Hall of Ambassadors); and the garden-orchards with their various architectural features Trivia: the etymology of "alcazar" is linked to the Arabic "al-qaṣr" and Latin "castrum" that both mean "castle".

Access & Transport

The complex is next to the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, at the southern end of the city centre, north of the Parque de Maria Luisa. It is only 250m south of the cathedral. The metro and tram lines L1 and T1 stop at "Puerta Jerez", just to the West of the Alcazar.

Instructions & Recommendations

Minors must be accompanied by an adult. We suggest combining this activity with an exploration of the Santa Cruz neighbourhood, including the Seville Cathedral

Meta review

The Royal complex is widely considered one of the city highlights and among the most impressive monuments in the whole of Andalusia. Online reviews support that opinion, highlighting the stunning architecture, ceilings and tile-work. For most visitors, it doesn't seem to be quite on the same level as the Alhambra in Grenade but gardens partially make up for it. The main drawback is the potentially long waiting line so booking online ahead of time is probably the smart move.

Environmental & Social

No environmental data available - considered marginally negative (electricity consumption) Helps preserve the city's historical, artistic and architectural heritages

Conclusion

The Alcazar is a central monument of Seville in every respect and, unless you have no care for history, architecture or delightful ornamentation, you should make a point of visiting and taking your time in doing so.

Key positive

Gorgeous architecture and deco

Very centrally located with other top touristic sights nearby

Long and interesting history

Key negative

Often has long waiting line

Suitability

Only partially accessible for wheelchair users as there are many stairs throughout the palace

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last admission 1h before closing. Closed on 01 Jan, 06 Jan, 25 Dec

av. transport time:0h 15m

est. visit time:1h 30m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1

MONDAY09:30 - 19:00

TUESDAY09:30 - 19:00

WEDNESDAY09:30 - 19:00

THURSDAY09:30 - 19:00

FRIDAY09:30 - 19:00

SATURDAY09:30 - 19:00

SUNDAY09:30 - 19:00

Start of Season 2:Oct, 01

Season 2

MONDAY09:30 - 17:00

TUESDAY09:30 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY09:30 - 17:00

THURSDAY09:30 - 17:00

FRIDAY09:30 - 17:00

SATURDAY09:30 - 17:00

SUNDAY09:30 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€13.5
Adult
13 - 64
€13.5
Child
3 - 12
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Price for EU citizens > 65 and students 14-30yrs old is €6. Admission for Royal Bedroom is €5.50

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.