The Alcazar
Trip Start
Jan 03, 2007
1
6
36
Trip End
May 19, 2007
Sevilla,
Spain
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
The structure resides right next to the cathedral and is surrounded by imposing
Exterior defensive walls
defensive walls, giving no hint to what lies within. Visitors today enter through the Puerta del Leon and are greeted by large plazas with intricate facades, impressive plaster work, and geometric tiling. Built on the same site as the Islamic palaces of the Almohad rulers, the site is a juxtaposition of Christian and Islamic architecture. The interior patios were meant to shade inhabitants from the intense heat of the region during summer, and the site has served as a retreat for the royal families of Spain up to today (the upper floor is reserved for this purpose).My favorite element in the structure is the incredible dome of the Ambassadors' Hall (Salon de Embajadores) built in 1427 of carved and gilded, interlaced wood.
The roof of the Ambassadors' Hall
The level of detail is impressive, and it must have clearly communicated a message of supremacy to diplomats visiting the country. Continuing the tour through rooms surrounded by detailed stucco work and more geometric tiling was amazing. Another interesting element were the original moorish baths that have been part of the structure since the earlier Almohad rulers reigned here, and was used by Islams for both hygienic and spiritual reasons (washing of hands and feet prior to prayer). Heading outside, we saw the main feature of the Alcazar, the series of gardens that royal families used to escape the summer heat for hundreds of years. Full of reflecting pools, fragrant orange trees, carefully maintained hedges, and enchanting fountains this was truly a surreal experience.
Pool in La Alcazar
