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There is a story that at the time it was built (1400s), church authorities said, “Let us build a church so beautiful and so grand that those who see it will think we are mad.” Built on the ruins of a mosque, there are constant reminders of the earlier Moorish design which you see in the unusual square shape of the cathedral, the orange tree courtyard and the Giralda minaret-turned-bell-tower. HIGHLIGHTS: * Colombus’ tomb – whether or not his body was actually inside has been argued about for almost 500 years. Recent DNA testing in 2006, conclusively linked the remains to his brother’s DNA, but this didn't deter the Dominican Republic, who still maintain they have his body. Certainly, it was there (at least at one stage) but the remains were also moved to Cuba, then Seville. Possibly parts are in both places? What we know for sure, is that at least some of Colombus is here. * High Altar – an 30m tall glittering wall of gold – just incredible. Each of the 22 scenes details the lives of Mary and Christ, alongside figures of 200+ saints. * Bell tower – amazing views and not so difficult to climb because it’s mostly ramps, with only a few stairs. It seemed odd that the ramps were there but it’s because it was originally a mosque and every day, 5 times a day, the muezzin would ride a donkey to the top for prayer-call. * 800 year old battle pennant King Ferdinand flew this pennant from bell-tower on Nov 23, 1248 when the Christian Conquistadors took Seville and drove the Moors out. When we climbed to the top of the bell-tower, it was amazing to picture this very pennant flying there 800 years ago. * World’s most valuable crown, the Corona of Virgen de los Reyes. You’ll find it in the Treasury section. Over 12,000 precious stones and the world’s largest pearl, which has been fashioned into a cherub - what more could a girl want? TICKETS - We avoided long cathedral lines in February by going via the Salvador church in Plaza Savador and buying a combo Church/Cathedral/Bell-Tower ticket there. The Salvador Church is Seville’s second biggest church and is well worth seeing. It’s only 3 min from the Cathedral.…
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Date of experience: February 2020
3 Helpful votes
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You have to go to see the "tomb" of Christopher Columbus, but the real joy for us was seeing the elements of the original mosque that had been incorporated round the edges of the church. And the tower is an absolute "must".
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Date of experience: October 2020
1 Helpful vote
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I travel a lot and this is nothing like I have seen before. Amazing building with a lot of history. It is a must see
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Date of experience: October 2020
1 Helpful vote
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Must see in Sevilla. It is walkable from all over the city and located next to many other sights to see. I'm not religious, yet I could have spent 3 hours here, no problem. The design, history and art come together to make this a definite spot to visit.
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Date of experience: November 2019
1 Helpful vote
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Nice place to visit. It is as much a museum as it is a cathedral. Very rich collection of religious art from middle age up to our days. Nice audio guide available.
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Date of experience: October 2020
1 Helpful vote
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