Seville is the heart and soul of Spain and it has hundreds of historical site. One of the most exciting neighborhood to explore is Santa Cruz with the narrow pedestrian streets and lots of eating and shopping. Of course, there are other important historical sites such as Alcazar of Seville, Seville Cathedral, Casa de Pilatos and many more. One of the highlights in Santa Cruz is to do a walking tour in this neighborhood.

Get Lost in the Maze of Narrow Alleys

Santa Cruz neighborhood is the oldest part of the city of Seville and had the largest Jewish community in Spain. You can wander and get lost in the narrow streets and alleys of this fascinating place. The ancient houses lean towards each other so closely that almost seem to touch, it was built in this manner to create shade for the summer as the heat is unbearable.

The aimless stroll will bring you to a lot of hidden gems and walking is the best way to explore Santa Cruz as it is so pedestrian friendly.  Many of the narrow alleys are solely for pedestrian so it is safe to walk.

Casa de Pilatos

This is one of the stunning mansion, the exterior may look boring but the interior will give you a good shock. A true hidden gem.

Clara Campoamor Sculpture

There is this little girl with lot of books sculpture that may catch your attention. This cute sculpture is dedicated to a famous feminist and a Spanish politician named Clara Campoamor. She is best known for her advocacy for women’s rights. The books and globe showing the importance of reading books and discovering the world.

Birth of Flamenco

Flamenco is something you can experience in Seville, as it is originated in the Andalusia region. The flamenco music and musical instruments were modified and adopted by Christian and Jews, and later by gypsies becoming hybrid music.  Seeing an artist move her skirt or flamenco dress during the dance is a real marvel, especially when accompanied by a singer and a live guitar.

La Giralda Bell Tower

The bell tower was originally built as the minaret for the Mosque so you will see elements of Moorish in the architecture.  It sits next to the Cathedral of Seville where Christopher Columbus’s Tombs was.

Souvenirs from Seville

Hand-painted fans and ceramics arts are something unique in Seville. Seville is very hot during the day time in summer and the fans work well for ladies.

Tapas Bar

Santa Cruz is a good place for tapas and you will notice tapas bars everywhere. You will notice people eating from each other’s very small plates. That’s is because the custom is to eat many different portions of different dishes and to share them. Tapas Bar hopping is something you can do, as different tapas bar offers their own signature dishes.

Tea Leaves in Basket

The tea leaves shop attracted lots of tourists to stop and smell the aroma.  There is a mixture of dried leaves, dried fruit, flower, and herbs in the woven basket.

Jardines de Murillo

A beautiful park with paved walkways and historic monument. There is a lion statue on top of the historic monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus.

Final thoughts:

Because of the intrinsic charm, beauty and atmosphere of the area, the Santa Cruz is a mecca for tourists. The best way to explore is by foot and get lost in the maze of these narrow alleys.