Our local guide this morning was Mercedes, who met us in the Plaza Nueva to begin a tour of the city center including the shopping area with its winding main street (Sierras - 'serpent'), the old Jewish quarter, & the highlight of the city - the Cathedral, as usual in Andalusia built on top of a former mosque.
Along our route we learned about Seville's traditions, including the important Semana Santa (Holy Week) parades, the 'feria' festival when the citizens dress in their finest clothes with the ladies in classic polka dot dresses, about bull fighting & tapas, & much more.
In the Cathedral itself we saw many of its greatest treasures, including the tomb of Christopher Columbus. After our tour ended, inside the Cathedral, we had free time to climb the Gerald tower for wonderful views over the rooftops.
The afternoon was free & many of the group chose to enjoy tapas for lunch, then visit the Alcazar, the royal palace that was built by successive rulers, both Muslim & Christian, & is still used by Spain's royal family when they visit Seville.
In the evening was met up to enjoy a fabulous & authentic display of flamenco - both dance, guitar & song, in an intimate performance venue. The perfect way to end our time in Seville before we depart tomorrow.
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