Seville is the capital city of the autonomous community of Andalusia. The name of the region can be followed back to Moorish times. Moors was a common name given to the Muslims that dominated big parts of the Iberian peninsula until it was taken by the Christians from the north during the Reconquista.

The region has longer cultural and historical roots. It has been a place where Iberian, Carthaginian, Greek, Roman, Vandals, Visigoths resided. Then, came the African Berbers which were chased away only in the 15^th century.

Andalusia is famous for flamenco, bullfighting and Moorish architecture. Most of the architectural landmarks from that period are in the city of Seville.

Seville’s Cathedral and La Giralda

The Giralda used to be minaret of the mosque that was later replaced by the cathedral. It was built in the 12^th century. It is considered a representative of the Almohad architecture together with other minarets in Rabat and Marrakesh. The Giralda was very revered by the Muslims. They attempted destroying it before fleeting the city from the Christians but were stopped by the Spanish king.

Alcazar

The Alcazar palace was begun by the Moors in 712 but was finished by the Spanish king Pedro in the 14^th century. He started a complete renovation of the palace using Muslim craftsmen from Granada as well as ornaments from other Moorish buildings in Seville. It is famous with its breathtaking rooms, gardens, and comforts.

Generalife

Generalife was the summer palace and county estate of the emirs of Granada. The magnificent complex is comprised of the water garden courtyard (Patio de la Acequia) with along pool covered with flowerbeds, and the Sultana’s Garden (Jardin de la Sultana). The palace is considered the best-preserved medieval garden in Andalusia.

The unforgettable Moorish heritage is worth visiting with a car so that you could fully enjoy its splendor. Car rental companies that offer their services in the region are Auriga crown, AVIS, Europcar, Hertz, National Atesa.

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