Introduction
Plaza de España is a stunning square located in the heart of Seville, Spain. The square was built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exhibition held in Seville the following year. The Plaza is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, and it attracts millions of tourists every year. In this article, we will explore some of the facts about Plaza de España that you may not have known before.
The Design
The design of Plaza de España is a blend of different architectural styles, including Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival. The plaza was designed by the architect Aníbal González, who was also responsible for other buildings in Seville, such as the Hotel Alfonso XIII. The square is semi-circular in shape and features a large fountain with a beauty spot in the center. The square is surrounded by a canal, which can be navigated by boats.
The Tilework
One of the most impressive features of Plaza de España is its stunning tilework. The square is decorated with colorful ceramic tiles that depict various scenes from Spanish history and culture. The tiles were created by local craftsmen, and they are arranged in a series of alcoves, each representing a different province in Spain. In total, there are 48 alcoves, each with its own distinctive tilework.
The Bridges
Plaza de España features four bridges that span the canal. The bridges are named after the four ancient kingdoms of Spain: Castile, Aragon, Navarre, and Leon. Each bridge is decorated with a coat of arms representing the respective kingdom it is named after.
The Movie Connections
Plaza de España has been used as the filming location for many movies and TV shows, including Lawrence of Arabia and Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. The plaza was used as the setting for the planet Naboo, and some of the scenes in the palace were filmed here.
Conclusion
Plaza de España is a magnificent square that is steeped in history and culture. Its stunning design, beautiful tilework, and movie connections make it a must-visit destination for any tourist visiting Seville. The plaza is open to visitors all year round, and it is free to enter. So, if you’re planning a trip to Seville, make sure to add Plaza de España to your itinerary!
- Designed by Aníbal González
- Built in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exhibition
- Decorated with colorful ceramic tiles representing different provinces in Spain
- Features four bridges named after the ancient kingdoms of Spain: Castile, Aragon, Navarre, and Leon
- Has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows