6 Amazing Facts about Royal Alcazar of Seville

The Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the oldest standing palaces in Europe and has been a symbol of Spanish culture for centuries. 

Located in the heart of Seville, the Alcázar is the residence of Spanish royalty since the Middle Ages. 

Its beautiful architecture and impressive history make it a popular tourist attraction. 

This article will share interesting facts about Royal Alcazar of Seville. 

1. Oldest royal palace that is still in use in Europe

The Royal Alcázar of Seville is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe today. 

It was first constructed and occupied by the Arabs, followed by the famous King Peter of Castile. 

Through the centuries, the palace was occupied by various Spanish kings. 

In modern times, it is the oldest Palace in Europe and belongs to the local council of Seville.

The Alcazar is often used to host state officials and dignitaries.

2. The palace was constructed over 5 centuries

For centuries, the Royal Alcazar of Seville has been the pride and joy of the Spanish people. 

Construction of the Palace began in the 10th century, and it took 500 years to reach the architectural wonder it is today. 

While the original structure is now largely unrecognizable, visitors can still appreciate the Islamic ornaments and patterns added over the centuries. 

Each monarch who lived in the Palace also added a structure or garden to the grounds, creating several beautiful gardens.  

The Spanish Reconquista remodeled the Palace in the 13th century, using Gothic and Romanesque features. 

In the 16th century, Renaissance features were added.

Unfortunately, an earthquake in 1755 led to the destruction of the Palace. 

However, it was quickly rebuilt, with Baroque elements added to the façade. 

Today, the Royal Alcazar of Seville stands as a testament to the history and culture of Spain and is a popular tourist destination.

3. The Alcazar is the official residence of the royal family

The Alcazar Palace in Seville is owned and managed by the local council. 

It has a rich history, having been used for centuries for ceremonial events and as an official residence for dignitaries of the Royal family. 

Currently, the upper floors of the Palace are used by the Patrimonio Nacional, a government agency that manages the Spanish Royal family’s assets. 

In 1987, UNESCO declared the Alcazar Palace a World Heritage Site, signifying its importance as Spain’s cultural and historical symbol.

4. The Kingdom of Heaven and Game of Thrones were shot in Alcazar of Seville

The palace is a popular tourist attraction and has been a setting for several movies and television series, most recently for Game of Thrones (GOT).   

This picturesque courtyard was featured in the movie Kingdom of Heaven, depicting the court of the King of Jerusalem. 

GOT fans will also recognize the courtyard as a location for the popular television series.

The palace was set for Water Gardens of Dorne in seasons 5 and 6 of the famous HBO Series Game of Thrones. 

The series showcases the Ambassador’s Hall, the Mercury’s Pool, The Baths of Maria de Padilla and the Alcazar Gardens. 

In addition, White Princess featured Lion’s Gate and the Spanish Princess was shot in the Patio de la Monteria. 

The Upper Royal Room was the setting for the modern version of The Wizard of Oz, Emerald City. 

5. The ceiling in the Hall of Ambassadors resembles the night sky

The Hall of Ambassadors at the palace is renowned for its lavish decoration. 

Its ceiling is awe-inspiring, with light beaming through intricate patterns that make it look like the night sky. 

This effect was designed to replicate the Hall of the Pleiades, a structure built in the 11th century by King Al-Mutamid. 

The dome-shaped ceiling is made of wood and boasts hundreds of tiny mirrors that reflect the light and give the room a golden hue.

6. The palace was built in Moorish style by Muslim workers for a Christian king

One of the most amusing facts about the Royal Alcazar of Seville is that Muslim workers built it for a Christian king and it is now a stunning example of Moorish architecture in Spain.

Muslim workers built it in the 13th century for a Christian king. 

The Palace was a fortification but was renovated and transformed into a palace. 

It combines Christian and Islamic architectural styles with intricate geometric designs, ornate ceilings, and colorful tiles. 

The Royal Alcázar Palace symbolizes the close relationship between the Christian and Islamic worlds during the Middle Ages.

It is a testament to the shared culture and history of the two religions, without any overtly religious symbols or decorations.

Featured Image: Bogitw / Pixabay