Gardens of the Royal Alcázar of Seville

The Gardens of the Royal Alcázar is a large garden complex in Seville that blends Moorish and European design styles. The space contains water basins, artificial channels, fountains, and flower beds arranged in symmetrical patterns throughout multiple connected courtyards and walkways.

The gardens began under Moorish rule and were significantly reshaped during the 14th century when King Pedro commissioned the Mudejar palace within the complex. This transformation determined much of the layout that exists today.

The name comes from the Arabic word "al-qasr," meaning palace, reflecting its royal purpose. Visitors today can observe how water features and planted courtyards were designed to create spaces for rest and reflection, a concept that shaped the entire layout.

The garden operates under a daily visitor capacity limit, so advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during busy months from March through October. Arriving early in the day helps ensure you can walk through the space comfortably and observe the details at a relaxed pace.

Hidden beneath the palace are the Baths of Maria Padilla, originally constructed as rainwater storage tanks. These underground chambers with their vaulted stone ceilings remain visible today and reveal a concealed layer of the site's history.