With a rich history spanning over a thousand years, this imposing minaret has witnessed the architectural and cultural evolution of the region, from its construction as part of the Almohad mosque to its transformation into the bell tower of Seville Cathedral.
History
The history of the Giralda dates back to the 12th century, during the Almohad period in the Iberian Peninsula. At that time, Seville was a significant Muslim city, and the construction of a grand mosque was decided to serve as a center of Islamic worship in the region. One of the most prominent features of this mosque was its minaret, known as the Giralda.
Construction of the Giralda began in 1184 under the rule of Caliph Abu Yaqub Yusuf and was completed in 1198 during the reign of his son Al-Mansur. During the Almohad period, the tower was used for the Muslim call to prayer and as an astronomical observation point.
After the Christian conquest of Seville in the 13th century, the Giralda was adapted for use as the bell tower of the new Christian cathedral. In the 16th century, a Baroque dome was added to the top of the tower, known as "La Giralda," which gave it its current name and became a symbol of the city.
Architecture
The Giralda is a magnificent example of Almohad architecture, characterized by its elegance and sobriety. The tower stands approximately 104 meters tall and is built of brick, with a series of friezes and horseshoe arches decorating its façades.
The interior of the Giralda consists of a spiral ramp that extends throughout the tower, allowing access to the top without the need for stairs. This ramp, designed for ascent on horseback, is one of the tower’s most distinctive features and has been praised for its architectural ingenuity.
At the top of the Giralda is the Baroque dome, added in the 16th century by architect Hernán Ruiz II. This dome, known as "La Giralda," is adorned with tiles and ceramics and is topped by a weather vane in the shape of a statue representing Faith, known as "El Giraldillo."
The Giralda as a Symbol of Seville
La Giralda has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Seville and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Its elegant silhouette and prominent location on the Sevillian skyline make it easily recognizable and have made it a reference point for visitors and residents of the city.
In addition to its architectural importance, La Giralda also has a symbolic meaning for Sevillians, who consider it an emblem of the city.
Cultural Impact
La Giralda has had a profound impact on the culture of Seville and has inspired artists, writers and poets throughout the centuries. Her elegance and beauty have been praised in numerous literary and artistic works, and her image has been reproduced in paintings, engravings, sculptures and other means of artistic expression.
The tower has also been a source of inspiration for music, with numerous compositions dedicated to it and its beauty. His presence on the Sevillian horizon has been immortalized in songs and musical works that celebrate his greatness and majesty.
Adults
Free
Children (3-7years)
Free
-2 years
Free
Contact the restaurant and benefit from the discount.
By being a Click & Home customer you have many benefits, and one of them is discounts at our partner restaurants. Make the reservation online, or if you prefer, contact them and use the following code to benefit from the discount.
15% discount | D192BG23.
Thank you very much for the reservation! We check availability and confirm. We are now just one step away!
Ok
Thanks for the payment. They will contact you soon.
Ok
An error has occured. The form has not been submitted. Try again. We apologize for the inconveniences
Try again
¡Revise el Formulario!
Aceptar
¡Contacto guardado!
Aceptar
