The Alcázar of Seville is one of the most iconic landmarks in Spain and a masterpiece of Mudejar architecture, combining Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Located in the heart of Seville, it is a royal palace originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings. Today, it serves as one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe still in use, functioning as an official residence of the Spanish royal family when they visit the city.

It was a definite must see while we visited Seville for the first time in spring 2024. We highly recommend to buy tickets in advance, there are timed slots for entry so it makes the whole visit easy to plan and time with all other cool sights in Seville. Also please remember to buy tickets at the only official site at Alcazar Sevilla, do not buy from non licensed vendors. 

The Alcázar was originally a Moorish fort, built in the 10th century during the rule of the Caliphate of Córdoba. After the Christian conquest of Seville in 1248 by King Ferdinand III, it became a royal palace. King Peter of Castile (Peter the Cruel) ordered extensive renovations in the 14th century, incorporating Mudejar architecture, which blends Islamic and Christian artistic elements.

Later monarchs, such as Charles V, added Renaissance features to the complex, blending new styles with the existing Islamic designs.

The main entrance, marked by a striking lion emblem, leads into the palace complex is called the Lion’s Gate (Puerta del León) this is where you queue up for the timed entrance slots. 

Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens): This iconic courtyard features a sunken garden, stunning tiled walls, and intricate arches that epitomize Mudejar design. When you enter the main courtyard, the courtyard of the maidens will be to your left. The «newer» royal residence to the right, and the gardens more or less straight ahead. 

Game of Thones filmed here!

Since we already have been to Kings Landing and Braavos while in Girona, and seen the Dragonpit in Italica, we were stoked as Game of Thrones fans that we got to see a bit of Dorne as well.  

The Alcázar of Seville served as the stunning filming location for the Water Gardens of Dorne. These scenes appeared primarily in seasons 5 and 6, featuring the Martell family, rulers of Dorne. The palace’s exotic architecture and lush gardens perfectly represented the luxurious, sun-soaked atmosphere of Dorne.

Specific Locations in the Alcázar Used in GOT, Ambassadors Hall (Salón de los Embajadores), used for some interior scenes, showcasing the golden dome and intricate tilework. It is a grand room with a golden domed ceiling and elaborate decoration, used for receiving important guests for those real life VIPs back in time not affiliated with GOT. 

Pool of the Patio de las Doncellas, a centerpiece for many outdoor shots, its reflection pool adds to the serene aesthetic of the Water Gardens.

The various fountains, pathways, and orange trees of the gardens provided a lush backdrop, emphasizing Dorne’s warm, vibrant climate. The Alcázar’s architecture and gardens were left largely unchanged for the show. The expansive beautiful gardens include fountains, orange trees, and geometric flower beds. These gardens reflect Moorish, Renaissance, and modern landscaping styles.

The most stunning part of the alcazar was for sure the Mudejar parts of the palace, the rooms with all their intricate carvings and vaulted ceilings were nothing short of spectacular! The gardens were cool and not something we expected to find in the middle of a bustling city, the serenity and tranquility of the whole complex was stunning! In addition to this we got to nerd on Game of Thrones yet again, so needless to say we were stoked with our visit to the Alcazar of Seville.