CITY OVERVIEW: SEVILLA

Population: 700,000
Location: Southern Part of Spain (Andalusia)

Sevilla is one of the "must see" locations in Spain due to its mild Mediterranean climate and rich culture, which embodies the true essence of life which Andalusia is world famous for. This city, with its beautiful whitewashed buildings, small balconies overflowing with geraniums, countless historic buildings and quiet winding streets, is an ideal place to learn Spanish.

From a historical standpoint, Sevilla is exceedingly rich. For example, theCathedral, built in the 1400's is perhaps the most impressive Gothic cathedral in the Christian world. It adjoins an Almohad Tower, called the Giralda, which originally was the minaret of the Great Mosque. This 300 foot high tower, which has become a symbol of the city, is topped by an active carillon and a statue of "Holy Faith," which was added after the Christian Reconquest. Across the plaza from the Cathedral stands the Alcázar, an impressive 10th century palace complex. The palace contains excellent examples of both Moorish and Christian architecture. Beyond these two sites, the city contains many other historic sites of interest, all very much worth a visit.

While these inspiring and historic sites are the backdrop of everyday life in modern Seville, Spain's fourth largest city is very cosmopolitan. The bustling commercial center is filled with typical business and trade activities, and an efficient public transportation system links the various neighborhoods and attractions. Woven into this urban fabric you will also find winding streets, flower-decked patios, and taverns where the sevillanos go about their daily lives.

Visitors find that sevillanos are a gracious and social people - welcoming tovisitors and eager to introduce them to the life and culture of their city. There are numerous cultural, social, and religious events celebrated during the year, but none more famous than Semana Santa, or Holy Week. During this week in early spring, there are nightly candlelit processions in each quarter of the city. Men carry religious figures on large, ornately decorated platforms, and are followed by hooded penitents, musicians, and crowds of the faithful. After Holy Week comes the April Fair, which features parades, bullfights, music, and especially dancing - the local dance, the sevillana, and of course, flamenco.

For someone who wants to experience Southern Spain, Sevilla is an excellent choice!