Seville, a city of rich Islamic history and vibrant cultural charm, welcomes travelers with a blend of experiences that celebrate both past and present. From exploring the iconic Alcázar to sampling halal cuisine, Seville offers Muslim visitors a myriad of ways to enjoy its unique heritage. This guide will take you through Seville’s most iconic landmarks, halal food spots, and a journey to Cordoba, where you’ll encounter the profound history of Al-Andalus.
Start with the Alcázar of Seville: A Walk Through Islamic Heritage
One of Seville’s most treasured landmarks, the Royal Alcázar is a must-visit. Originally built as a Moorish fortress, the Alcázar beautifully captures the splendor of Islamic architecture, with its ornate arches, intricate tilework, and lush gardens that evoke the grandeur of Al-Andalus. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Seville’s Islamic past, dating back to the 10th century. Wander through the Courtyard of the Maidens with its symmetrical arches, fountains, and pools that echo Islamic aesthetics, and take in the Hall of Ambassadors, where you’ll find spectacular carved wooden domes and inscriptions. Don’t miss the serene gardens where you can rest, surrounded by fountains and orange trees—a perfect place for reflection.
Image Credit: Alcazar, Seville – AXP Photography, Unsplash
Discover Seville’s Cathedrals and Historic Landmarks
While in Seville, a visit to the Seville Cathedral is essential. Though the cathedral itself was built on the site of a former mosque, it is now the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Inside, marvel at its impressive architecture, including the Giralda, originally built as a minaret during the Almohad rule. Non-Muslims can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city, and there is a respectful atmosphere that Muslim visitors may appreciate.
Another historic site to add to your itinerary is the Torre del Oro. This 13th-century watchtower, originally built by the Almohads to protect the city from invaders, now serves as a maritime museum. The tower’s views of the Guadalquivir River are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Nearby, the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza, Seville’s famous bullring, provides a fascinating look into Spanish culture and history. While bullfighting is not typically a part of Islamic culture, the bullring itself is an architectural marvel, offering a unique look at one of Spain’s oldest traditions.
Image Credit: Torre Del Orro, Seville Spain – Helen Gonzalez Unsplash
Sightseeing Tour Bus: A Convenient Way to Explore
For a relaxed and efficient way to explore Seville, hop on a Seville Sightseeing Tour Bus. The bus takes you through all the main attractions, including the Alcázar, Torre del Oro, and Plaza de España, as well as neighborhoods like Triana, famous for its ceramic art and historic streets. Many of these buses offer an audio guide, which includes historical information about Seville’s Islamic past and architectural wonders. The tour is perfect for travelers looking to see a variety of sites without the need to navigate on their own.
Halal Dining in Seville: Where to Find Authentic Flavors
Seville has a growing number of halal-friendly dining spots where Muslim travelers can enjoy local and international flavours but there could be more. For authentic Andalusian cuisine, Al Wadi offers a variety of halal dishes, from traditional tapas to more substantial meals. Located near the city center, it’s a convenient option after a day of sightseeing. Fez Restaurante is another popular spot, known for its Moroccan-inspired dishes and cozy ambiance. Away from these restaurants you can find some great salad bars and veg options along the way. They’re not big on Chilli in Europe so take some Tabasco with you.
For a more casual meal, try La Sultana, a restaurant specialising in halal-certified Spanish and Mediterranean fusion. They offer dishes such as paella and lamb skewers, combining local flavours with halal standards. Most halal restaurants are located near the city centre, making it easy to stop for a meal between visits to Seville’s iconic sites. Uber works well in Seville if you fancy something back at your hotel.
Setas de Sevilla By Robin Cross, Unspalsh
Day Trip to Cordoba with Natruanda: Discovering the Mosque-Cathedral
For an unforgettable experience, consider a day trip to Cordoba with Natruanda, a tour company that offers an insightful journey into the history of Al-Andalus. Cordoba was the heart of Islamic Spain and home to the remarkable Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba (La Mezquita). Once the grandest mosque in the Western Islamic world, the structure dates back to the 8th century and reflects the heights of Islamic art and architecture. (Quote Antonio to gain a 10% discount on your booking) – he was a great Natrunda Guide.
The guided tour of the Mosque-Cathedral reveals its impressive arcaded hypostyle hall, adorned with red-and-white striped arches that exemplify early Islamic artistry. Natruanda’s guides are knowledgeable about the mosque’s history, sharing details of its transformation into a cathedral after the Reconquista, while highlighting the respectful preservation of its original Islamic features. Standing within its vast prayer hall, visitors can imagine the bustling city it once served, where scholars, poets, and scientists contributed to Cordoba’s golden age.
Elliot Van Buggenhout, Unsplash
Seville’s Neighborhoods: Triana, Santa Cruz, and Beyond
Exploring Seville’s neighborhoods allows visitors to experience the city’s local color and charm. Santa Cruz, the former Jewish quarter, is an atmospheric district with narrow alleys, white-washed buildings, and charming plazas. The Triana neighborhood, located across the Guadalquivir River, is famous for its pottery shops and artisan history. Triana has a distinct identity, with traditional markets and flamenco tablaos (venues) that showcase Seville’s cultural diversity. Although flamenco has deep roots in Spanish culture, many Muslim travelers find it interesting as a reflection of the region’s mixed influences.
Practical Tips for Muslim Travelers
Seville is a welcoming city for Muslim visitors, but it’s helpful to know some practical tips. While there aren’t dedicated prayer spaces in every area, most major sites and parks offer quiet areas where you can pray. Some local mosques are available as well, such as the Seville Mosque Foundation located in the city center. It’s also worth checking the hours of local halal restaurants, as some close for siesta in the early afternoon.
Embracing Seville’s Spirit
Seville offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and hospitality, making it a memorable destination for Muslim travelers. From exploring the grandeur of the Alcázar and the Seville Cathedral to tasting halal-friendly dishes and embarking on a journey to Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral, Seville embraces its Islamic past while celebrating the vibrancy of its present. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a deep dive into history, Seville provides a journey that resonates with every traveler.
For muslims, Seville is a weekend trip with lots of walking and opportunities to re-visit the muslim history and heritage. Remember, there it not many halal food options in Seville.
The adventurous spirit behind the pages of British Muslim magazine. As the Editor-in-Chief, Natasha leads with a passion for exploration and a pen dipped in wanderlust. With a keen eye for halal travel experiences and an insatiable curiosity for new experiences, she brings readers along on captivating journeys to far-flung destinations. Through her vibrant storytelling, Natasha invites readers on enriching adventures, where every experience is a window into the muslim world.
