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Seville/SevillaI don't know why the English changed the title of Sevilla to Seville but for uniformity I'll stick with the Spanish term. Most people who visit Sevilla are enchanted, it's the unique atmosphere not the place, but they are not alone, in the 11th century the Muslim poet-king Al-Mutamid was recorded as being captivated by Sevilla. Sevilla has a unique aura that draws people to fall in love with the city. Its vibrant and bustling inner-city life attracts tourists like a fragrant bloom. Both young and old are drawn to Sevilla, like a gentleman of old it exudes status but keeps up with the times.
Sevilla is the largest city in Andalucia and the government and parliament of this autonomous community. Stroll along the broad orange-tree lined streets, and in spring inhale the fragrance of the orange blossom that fills the city. The origins of Sevilla are believed to go back to the second century B.C, by the Iberians, later to be taken over by the Phoenicians and Carthaginians it then fell into the hands of the Romans. The site of Italica a settlement founded by Scipio Africanus in 206 B.C.is one of the most interesting excavations sites in Spain today and not to be missed. The River Gualalquivir is instrumental in the city's existence and during the Age of Discovery Sevilla was the gateway to the New World as boats traded their goods on the river banks. Insiders Tip Stroll across the river on Puente Isabel II into the Triana district where there are plenty of old-style bars in narrow alleys. Seville’s oldest church built in 1260 is also here and Calle Betis, a charming street on the banks of the Guadalavirir river which is lined with tapas bars.
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