Alcazar in Seville

Alcazar in Seville is more famously known as the Alcazar Palace in Seville. A symbol of the royal age of Spain, the Alcazar Palace belonged to the Royal Alcazars of Seville, Spain. The Alcazar underwent changes several times and what emerged as the final picture is an extraordinary example of architectural genius. The site for the Alcazar Palace was originally a site occupied by another palace built by the Almohades called Al- Muwarak. The Alcazar Palace was originally a Moorish Fort. With time later additions like Islamic designs were made to the Alcazar on the insistence of King Pedro of Castile. The construction work started in 1364.

Features of Alcazar in Seville

  -  The Alcazar in Seville is the last living symbol of the Mudejar architecture which was prevalent during the Christian rule in Spain. The dominant style incorporated the use of Islamic architecture. However the addition of Gothic elements to the Alcazar by Charles V stands in perfect contrast to the present Islamic style.

  -  The Alcazar in Seville has three main sections. They are called Patio de las Doncellas, Los Banos de Dona Maria de Padilla and La Casa de Contratacion. The three sections altogether make Alcazar and have interesting tales behind their construction.

  -  Patio de las Doncellas, also known as ‘The Courtyard of the Maidens’ is the first notable section. The place got its name from the legend stating that 100 virgins were demanded by the Moors every year as gifts from the Christian dominated Kingdoms in Spain. The orders of Pedro I led to the construction of the lower level of the Patio. The Patio consists of inscription in honor of King Pedro. The sides of the Patio are lined with lavish reception rooms. The center is dominated by a reflecting pool with sunken gardens on either side. This particular section was also used for shooting a movie by director Ridley Scott. The upper section of the Patio came up on the order of Charles V.

  -  The Baths of Lady Maria de Padilla or Los Banos de Dona Maria de Padilla refers to the rainwater tanks located below the Patio del Crucero. Maria de Padilla on whom the tanks are named was actually the mistress of the cruel King Pedro who disfigured herself to save her from being disgraced at the hands of Pedro. She became a nun and is respected as a symbol of purity.

  -  The La Casa de Contratacion popularly known as the House of Trade is located off the Patio de la Monteria. The Catholic Monarchs were behind the construction of this section as a center to promote trade relations with the New World. The section also houses a beautiful Chapel with Mujedar architecture.