The Sound of Sevilla
Since I started planning my Spain trip, I had a feeling that Sevilla would be my favourite city and it didn’t disappoint me one bit. We took Renfe, the high speed train, from Madrid and arrived at this peaceful place. First landmark that struck me was the grandeur of Catedral de Sevilla. It is the third largest cathedral in the Catholic world. We met up with a friend of mine and his lovely family and walked along the lively street to Parque de Maria Luisa where behind the greenish tree branches revealed the classic Plaza de España. This place was originally built for the queen and was later given to the people of Sevilla as a gift. We sat on the tiled square listening to the sound of the horse carriages passing by as if we were taken back in time to the Renaissance era.
Inside the park, there are 500-year-old trees, plenty species of plants to observe, and a monument dedicated to Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer. It depicts three young women: one in love, one who lost her love, and one who is waiting for love…which one are you?
From my friend’s insightful recommendation, we followed the google map through the dark alleys to a bar called Carboneria where we were told to expect a local flamenco show. The bar was hidden in a small quiet street as if it expected not to be found but once we got through the door, there were tons of people inside. The buzzing sounds of friends talking, drinking, and eating olives continued for a short while then suddenly a group of musicians sitting at the corner started to sing, just their pure genuine voices and a couple of instruments, and the flamenco queen stood up and danced. The dance moves were captivating, her wooden heels clapped the floor, her fingers glided through the air above her, her expression passionate. Yes, this might be the cliche tourist to-do list but hell yeah it was good experience. One I will never forget.
Sevilla is a compact city where you can just walk everywhere. Real Alcázar is where Game of Thrones Season 5 was shot (initially, they wanted to shoot the series at Alhambra but the cost was too high). Triana Bridge connects the two sides of the city that River Guadalquivir runs through. Alfonso XIII Hotel is a luxurious hotel where Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston stayed at when they were on their honeymoon. Giralda is a tower at the cathedral where you can see the skyline of Sevilla. Inside the cathedral you can also visit the tomb of Christopher Columbus. There are many controversies about this whether his remaining is there or not but no one seems to know.
Last but not least, this is the only city in Spain where I spotted cats! It was during one morning when I was wandering alone near the hospital and saw two cats crossing the street. Apparently, someone at the hospital has been feeding them with dry cat food. I wonder if cats here would prefer tapas 😛
For my next diary log, we are going to the classic Alhambra and get lost in the castle!