La Cathedral Maria de la Sede

The Maria de la Sede cathedral must be one of the most famous buildings in Sevilla. It is the largest cathedral in Europe and one of the largest in the world. Since it is this exceptional, it is made UNESCO inheritance too. It's tower, the Giralda, has become the symbol of Sevilla, and offers a beautiful view over the city.

Originally, on the place were the Maria de la Sede stands, a Mosque was build, yet that is hardly noticeable nowadays. Only the little patio de los naranjas, at the exit of the cathedral, shows some original Mudejar walls, that ones belonged to the Medina.

Things you have to visit here are the large main altar, completely in gold and full of artwork. Note that the statues are designed to match perspective. The statues above are much much bigger than the ones below, to make it look like they all have the same size.

Another must-see is the tomb of Columbus. There has been much dispute since many places claim to have the remains of Columbus buried, but recently DNA research has confirmed that the bones in the tomb of Sevilla indeed belong to the great explorer that made Sevilla rich. The organ is immense and exceptional too, together with the treasury chambers, where many golden and diamond objects can be viewed.

Sevilla's cathedral might be the largest, yet not the most beautiful one. There are about 5 big parts, but the construction has been expanded and expanded many times and therefor lost it's unity and symmetry. The inside is huge, but I missed the touch of magic that floats around in other cathedrals and churches. Take the time to walk around the outside too, it gives a good impression of the size of the Maria de la Sede.

The Giralda tower is included in the entrance fee, so take the time to climb it as well. The view is wonderful, and so is the walk up. There are no stares, just a steep hill that goes round and round. You'll find it much more comfortable to climb than stares.

I find it inappropriate to ask an entrance fee for a cathedral, but in Sevilla, you need to pay. I think the fee is 7,50 euro's for adults and 3 euros for students. It is worth the many for sure, but still I think it is quite expensive... If I'm correct the entrance is free on Sundays, yet I can't confirm.