Torre del Oro
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Torre del Oro - by Campunet from Pixabay
Description
The Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold) is a dodecagonal (12-sided) military watchtower on the banks of the Guadalquivir in Seville. The first two floors of the 36m high tower were built in the early 13th century under the Almohad Caliphate to control access to the city but it also infamously served as a prison. The last floor, cylindrical in shape, was added as part of the extensive renovation required after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. The tower now houses a naval museum focusing on the naval history of the city and displays old navigational instruments, charts and models.
Access & Transport
The monument is located along Paseo de Cristobal Colon, just north of the San Telmo bridge. There are bus stops along the road and the Puerta Jerez metro and tram station (L1, T1) is a 2-3mins' walk away
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining a visit there as a link between the Santa Cruz and Triana / Betis neighbourhoods or on the way to the Plaza de Toros, only 800m to the north.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral (min. electricity consumption). The museum helps preserve the city's architectural and historical heritages
Conclusion
The Torre del Oro is one of Seville's most distinctive monuments and often draws comparisons with Lisbon's Belem Tower. Any visitor to the city should make sure to walk past it and, if you have a spare 30-45mins for cultural activities, the museum is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the importance of the river from a military and commercial standpoint. The panoramic views from the top are a bonus.
Key positive
Visually enjoyable and good views from the 3rd floor
Centrally located and cheap entrance fee
Key negative
Museum is really small and has no stand-out content
Suitability
Unclear whether the upper floors are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. Free entrance for the disabled
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:0h 45m
Monday09:30 - 18:30
Tuesday09:30 - 18:30
Wednesday09:30 - 18:30
Thursday09:30 - 18:30
Friday09:30 - 18:30
Saturday10:30 - 18:30
Sunday10:30 - 18:30