The Royal Palace of Seville was originally a Moorish fort and palace built by the Almohades dynasty which ruled in southern Spain from 1121-1269 C.E. It is a collection of Palace Buildings, with intricate patios with fountains, and an extensive garden, all of which is surrounded by a thick stone-wall. It is an amazing example of mudéjar art, which is a combination of Islamic style architecture and design with gothic and romantic motifs. It is incredibly intricate and geometric, as well as colorful. The gardens are absolutely amazing. Having recently been in freezing Russia, they are perfect. Acres of trees and flowers, along with ponds and fountains. It was built to be a paradise for the rulers of southern Spain, and it truly is, even today. Some sections of the palace are still used as the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family when they visit Seville. I spent several hours, and could have spent several more, wondering the gardens and patios. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited, and I seem at a loss for words fit to describe its idyllic tranquility.
The Outer-Wall
Palace Interior
Gardens, Patios, and Fountains
And finally, a poem by Luis Cernuda, written in the 1940’s from exile, about the city of his birth.
“It was a sky of blue, clean and pure, glorious in light and warmth. Among the tops of the palm tree, above the terraced roofs and white corridors that crowned the garden, a grey and ocher tower stood slenderly like the chalice of a flower.”
Ocnus, Ancient Garden
To Luis Cernuda, on the 100th year of his birth, Seville, 2002.
This very poor translation is my own, and hopefully the English conveys some of the surreal beauty of these gardens.
