SEVILLE – Centrally located, Barrio Santa Cruz is part of the old town and was also the former Jewish quarter. Long ago, this part of Seville had the largest Jewish community in Spain.
As part of our series of articles Around Spain in 90 days, we look at Barrio Santa Cruz in Seville. This is just another of the fantastic places to visit in the capital and largest city of the Spanish autonomous community of Andalucia.
In 1248, Ferdinand III of Castile conquered the city and handed this district to the Jews. Everything went well until the 14th century when the Jewish community was driven out, killed, or forced to convert to Christianity.
But the historical origins of the Barrio de Santa Cruz date to an earlier time. Seville was previously called Híspalis. And then, the barrio was the limits of the walled city. You can see this in one of its corners, in Calle Mármoles, where three Roman columns from the portico of an old 1st-century temple are still preserved to this day.
Santa Cruz is a special area
Within this special area of Seville, take a look at the Plaza del Triunfo. From here, you can see the Alcazar Palace, the Giralda Cathedral Tower, the General Archives of the Indies, and the Triumph Monument.
This monumental complex has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Beautiful courtyards
In addition to the history and special monuments, this area of Seville has much to offer. Take a wander around the narrow, labyrinth of streets, and soak up the atmosphere. You will see beautiful courtyards in full bloom and can visit many authentic tapas bars.
You may stumble across the Plazuela de Santa Marta, Calle Agua, Patio de Banderas, Calle de las Cruces, Plaza de los Refinadores, and Calle Mateos Gago.
Romeo and Juliet
Calle Aqua is said to have inspired the balcony scene in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The Museo del Baile Flamenco (Museum of Flamenco Dance), can also be found in this district. It is one of the best in the city.
Barrio Santa Cruz is indeed an ideal location to get lost.
