Catedral de Sevilla

Yesterday I took a trip to the Catedral de Sevilla. This is the 3rd largest church in the world. It was originally a mosque but after Sevilla fell to the Christians in 1248 its main mosque was used as a church until 1401. After the authorities decided to knock it down and start over. Some parts of the original church still remain; The wall on the Patio of the Oranges is still intact as well as the Giralda which was originally a minaret now converted into a bell tower. a wall on the side of the It was completed again in 1507. Its style was originally Gothic, but after its main dome collapsed in 1511 it mainly was rebuilt in the Renaissance style.

The Cathedral is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus. It has 80 chapels filled with famous paintings, sculptures and treasures from Spain's long history. I spent a solid two hours walking around and checking the cathedral. Here are some pictures from my trip.

The Cathedral Entrance

Inside of the Cathedral

The detail on every part of the cathedral is so amazing. Another shot from the inside

One of the many tombs inside. All sculpted and very detailed

The four men rest the tomb of Christopher Columbus on their shoulders. They represent Spain's four kingdoms. (Aragon, Leon, Castile and Navarra)

His remains traveled probably farther than he did when he was alive. He was moved to many places, many people say he is buried in the Dominican Republic. But the Spanish believe he is buried here.

The domes of the cathedral are so elaborate and pretty.

Another picture of the interior.

Spanish treasures

more ridiculous pieces of art.

The Giralda, 300 feet high.

On my way up. It was has over 34 ramps to the top, they used ramps so they could take horses up.

Finally at the top!

Walking around the top of the bell tower

The bells started going off while I was at the top. It definitely startled me.

At the top of the Giralda. Overlooking the Cathedral and city.

In the distance is the direction of where I live.

Plaza de Toros, where the bullfights take place.

The Plaza de Espana and the Rio de Guadalquivir in the distance

Patio de los Naranjos (patio of the oranges) This was originally the courtyard where Muslims performed ablutions before entering the mosque.

Down on the Patio of the Orange Trees

Looking up at the Cathedral from the patio

After about 2 hours inside the Cathedral I went and got some food at a place near by. Paella again... I love this stuff

Haha, 6 oz bottle of Coke, more like a shot.