Plaza de Espana, Seville

The Plaza de Espana is the most spectacular square in Seville, a vast semicircle of grand pavilions built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, embracing a curving canal crossed by ornate bridges. Along its base run colourful tiled alcoves, one for each Spanish province, and the whole ensemble of brick, ceramic and water, famous from cinema, is a joyful monument to Andalusian craft.

What you actually see

• The grand semicircle - the sweeping curve of pavilions and towers.
• The tiled alcoves - the colourful azulejo benches for each Spanish province.
• The canal and bridges - the curving waterway crossed by ornate ceramic bridges.
• The Maria Luisa Park - the lush park surrounding the plaza.

When to go

Spring and autumn for mild weather; summer is very hot but the park gives shade. Late afternoon light warms the brick and tile beautifully. It is free and open to wander.

Honest expectations

It is free, open and can be busy, especially with photographers and rowboat hirers. It is a monument to walk and photograph rather than a museum. The surrounding park is lovely for combining with a stroll.

Nearby

The Maria Luisa Park surrounds it; the cathedral and Alcazar are a walk north.