Alcázar

The Alcázar (Spanish "Reales Alcázares de Sevilla" or "Royal Alcazars of Seville") is a royal palace in Seville, originally a Moorish fort of which the construction was ordered by Abd Al Ramn III in the year 913. It is situated right next to the Cathedral. The Almohades were the first to build a palace, which was called Al-Muwarak, on the site of the modern day Alcázar. The palace is one of the best remaining examples of mudéjar architecture. Subsequent monarchs have added their own additions to the Alcázar. Because of it's beauty it was chosen as residence by many monarchs in the centuries that followed. It now is the residence of His Royal Majesty Juan Carlos when he visits Seville. Pedro I, "the cruel" (1350 to 1369), made significant additions to the palace which is one of the most important examples of Mudejar architecture in Seville. The numerous rooms, patios and halls vary in architectural styles from the Islamic to Neoclassical. The beautiful gardens and fountains are especially worth visiting.




The most magnificient, awe-inspiring ceiling I've ever seen. You can see the movement while looking at it even through this photo! I had to post a large size since the other just didn't do it justice. I apologize if this causes any problems for anyone.