Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Let's Meet At The Alcazar

I fell head over heels in love with Seville.  The worn cobblestone streets, beautiful horse drawn carriages and ancient architecture are spellbinding and so romantic. On our first day, we walked the narrow streets lined with tall royal palm trees and made our way to the Real Alcazar, Spain's oldest palace. Originally built as a Moorish fort, the Alcazar is the royal palace in Seville and is still used by the Spanish Royal family.
Inside the Alcazar is the palace's true jewel, the Mudejar Palace of Peter I. I was surprised to see that, although built as a Christian palace, its exterior and design bear a closer resemblance to Andalusian and eastern buildings. Using a style of Iberian architecture and ornamentation known as Mudejar, the palace's distinctive style of design was strongly influenced by Moorish taste and workmanship from Arab and Jewish craftsman. Sensual and romantic, its no wonder that King Peter I of Castille had this magnificent palace built as his home. 
Every wall and ceiling in the palace features intricate carvings and tile work-you can't help but be awed and inspired by the magnificent design and craftsmanship that has lasted centuries.



In the center of the courtyard is a long reflecting pool with stunning sunken gardens on either side. A series of sweeping steps lead down to acres of lavish gardens.
Resting on a bench overlooking the magnificent pool and gardens, I realized that the Alcazar is truly a feast for all senses and definitely a sight not to be missed!

8 comments:

I Dream Of said...

Absolutely gorgeous! We are currently thinking about a trip to Spain. Would love to hear your tips!

Vannessa@Luxuria said...

OMG!!! Barbara you were so close to my home. I pass The Alcazar everyday. So near and yet so far ;-)
I will put a link on my blog for friends to enjoy your visit to Seville, as your photos are stunning!

The enchanted home said...

The workmanship and beauty is truly spellbinding and I can only imagine how incredible it is to see theses works of art in person! Spain looks incredible and is so a country I hope to get to next time we visit Europe. Thank you for sharing and safe travels!!

jeanette from everton terrace said...

Wow, the detail is so beautiful. I can just imagine it all, the warm sun and the smells and all that beauty, swoon.

Barbara@HausDesign said...

I love Seville...that blending of Moroccan and Spanish influences is design perfection in my book! Beautiful - you captured it amazingly well too!

http://bjdhausdesign.blogspot.com/

red ticking said...

oh what a wonderful holiday !!! can't wait to hear more hopefully you will come home one day??? august??
xx

quintessence said...

How fabulous!!! The workmanship is just incredible! Loved seeing this spectacular architectural feat with all the amazing tilework. Thank you for this vicarious travel treat!!

Jamie Herzlinger said...

Wow! Stunning! What amazing photos and such great inspiration as usual!
Enjoy!
Cheers
Jamie Herzlinger