The Giralda of Seville is one of the most iconic symbols of the city. Located in the heart of the historic center, the Giralda is a remnant of the Islamic past of Seville and a reminder of the city’s vibrant history. It stands tall and proud, a testament to the city’s cultural heritage.
History of the Giralda
The Giralda is a remnant of the Almohad dynasty, which ruled in Seville from the 12th to the 13th centuries. It was built in 1184 by the architect Ahmad ibn Baso as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville. The original design was a square tower with four arches, topped by a lantern and a copper sphere. It was a symbol of the power and wealth of the Almohad dynasty.
In the 16th century, the Christian rulers of Seville decided to convert the mosque into a cathedral. They built a new bell tower on top of the old minaret, designed by architect Hernán Ruiz. The bell tower is the one we see today, with its famous statue of Faith on top. It stands 97.5 meters tall and is one of the most recognizable symbols of Seville.
Features of the Giralda
The Giralda is an impressive structure, with its four sides decorated with ornate stonework. Its main entrance is on the west side, and it is surrounded by two smaller entrances on the north and south sides. The bell tower is divided into four levels, with the top level being the highest. On the top level, there is a statue of Faith, which symbolizes the triumph of Christianity over Islam.
Inside the Giralda, there is a winding staircase of 35 ramps, which is open to the public. The staircase leads to the top of the bell tower, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city. There are also two small rooms, one on the second level and one on the third level, which were used as guardrooms.
What to See in the Giralda
The Giralda is a popular tourist attraction in Seville, and it is home to many interesting artifacts and features. On the first level, you can see the old minaret, which is decorated with Islamic tiles and inscriptions. On the second level, there is a statue of King Ferdinand III, which was placed there in the 16th century.
On the third level, there is a sculpture of a giraffe, which is the symbol of the city. The sculpture was created by artist Juan de Mesa in 1690. On the fourth level, there is a large clock, which was installed in the 18th century.
Conclusion
The Giralda is one of the most iconic symbols of Seville. It is a reminder of the city’s rich cultural history and a testament to the power and wealth of the Almohad dynasty. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of the bell tower, as well as explore the interesting artifacts and features inside.