Living in Culture

With its sun-soaked plazas, winding cobblestone streets, and rhythms of flamenco echoing late into the night, Seville feels both timeless and full of energy. Sometimes called the “soul of Andalusia,” Seville is steeped in layers of history—from its Roman foundations to Moorish palaces and Renaissance cathedrals—yet it has a character that’s entirely its own. Where cities like Madrid and Barcelona bustle with cosmopolitan flair, Seville tells a story of tradition, artistry, and a slower pace of life that invites you to savor every moment.

A City Shaped by History

Seville’s roots stretch back to Roman times. The earliest known settlers were the Tartessians, who lived in the area of the Guadalquivir River. The city then shifted into an Islamic Period in 711 when the city was know as Ixvillia. It became a leading cultural and commercial center under various Islamic dynasties, such as the ʿAbbāsids and the Almohads, who made it their capital in the 12th century. Many buildings in the city still date from this period. In 1248, Ferdinand III conquered the city, incorporating it into the Crown of Castile. It became a major port and administrative center for Spanish trade. In fact, Christopher Columbus sailed from Seville, and he is now buried in its cathedral. 

The 16th century was Seville’s “Golden Age”. It was characterized by incredible arts, wealth, and the construction of major buildings like it’s grand cathedral and city hall. Later, in the 20th century, Seville was revitalized after periods of decline. Events like the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929 (responsible for the Plaza de España pictured above) and the Universal Exposition of 1992, which ushered in modern infrastructure and high-speed rail.

Modern Day Seville

Walking through Seville today, you see this history everywhere. The narrow medieval streets twist through neighborhoods like Santa Cruz, where whitewashed houses are draped with flowers. Plazas shaded by orange trees give the city its fresh scent in spring. At the heart of Seville, the Plaza de España, combines Renaissance style with colorful ceramic tiles that celebrate Spain’s diverse regions.

Today, Seville draws millions of visitors each year, eager to experience its blend of history and living tradition. Tourists often head to the cathedral, the Alcázar, or the lively Metropol Parasol (nicknamed “Las Setas”), a massive wooden structure offering sweeping city views.

Food, Art, and Culture

Seville’s food scene is all about flavor and sharing. The city is in the region Andalusia which is the birthplace of tapas. Tapas are small plates that are meant to be shared, and often people will go from bar to bar to try unique dishes from each location. Classics in Seville include salmorejo (a chilled tomato soup thicker than gazpacho, topped with ham and egg), jamón ibérico, and espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas).

Flamenco is at the heart of Seville’s cultural identity. The passionate music and dance originated in Andalusia, and Seville remains one of the best places to experience it, especially in the neighborhood of Triana. The city also boasts world-class art: the Museo de Bellas Artes holds Spanish masterpieces, including works by Murillo and Zurbarán. Even just wandering Seville feels like stepping into art—the tiled courtyards, wrought-iron balconies, and vibrant street life all create a living canvas.

Personal Experiences

Seville is my favorite city in Spain. While it is metropolitan, the city has a warmth that makes everyone feel welcome. I loved wandering the winding alleys and walking beneath the orange trees. One evening, I went to a flamenco show in a small, intimate venue—the music and dance were so powerful it felt like the floor was vibrating beneath my feet.

Seville is a city that balances history, tradition, and joy for life. Whether you’re wandering through its Moorish palaces, eating tapas late at night, or listening to flamenco music seep out from the buildings, it feels like a place full of stories and culture. If you are planning a trip to Spain, Seville is a city you simply cannot miss!