Plaza de España is one of the most impressive Seville attractions, drawing thousands of visitors every year. Built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, this grand square is a true architectural masterpiece, blending several styles into one stunning creation. Its semi-circular design, bordered by a tranquil canal and magnificent buildings, makes it one of the most photogenic places in the city. Over the years, Plaza de España has become an icon of Seville and a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about this iconic landmark, including what to do, how to visit, and the fascinating story behind its architecture.
Where is Plaza de España in Seville?
Plaza de España is located in the southern part of Seville, within the lush grounds of Parque de María Luisa. Originally part of the gardens of the Palacio de San Telmo, this sprawling city park was donated to the public in 1893. The plaza is situated along Avenida de Isabel la Católica, making it a centrally located and easily accessible spot. You can walk to it from the historic city center, take a bike, or hop on public transport.
Its position within the park makes it an ideal destination to combine with a relaxing walk through the gardens or a visit to nearby monuments. We’ve visited three times now, and every visit leaves us equally impressed. Both the plaza and the surrounding park are highlights you simply shouldn’t miss.
Tip: Check out our guide to the best neighborhoods in Seville for more ideas on where to explore.
What is Plaza de España?
Plaza de España was designed by renowned Sevillian architect Aníbal González for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. The plaza is shaped like a vast half-circle, with a diameter of around 200 meters. The buildings that surround it were originally used as pavilions for the exhibition and today serve as offices and government institutions. During one of our visits, we even witnessed an elaborate arrival ceremony for a foreign government official, complete with pomp and grandeur that fit the setting perfectly.
The Architecture of Plaza de España
The architecture of Plaza de España is a harmonious mix of Spanish Renaissance and Mudéjar styles, creating a design that feels both historic and grand. Architect Aníbal González combined brick, ceramics, and wrought iron to craft a space that’s as beautiful as it is intricate. Two towering structures, each 74 meters tall, stand at either end of the plaza, dominating the skyline and serving as visible markers from various parts of the city.
The facades are richly adorned with ceramic tiles, stained-glass windows, and marble balustrades, making every corner a visual treat. At the heart of the plaza, you’ll find a grand fountain designed by Vicente Traver, which adds to the elegant symmetry of the space. Along the curved facade, 48 tiled alcoves represent Spain’s provinces, each featuring the province’s coat of arms and a map, all framed by vibrant ceramic tiles in the traditional azulejo style. The four bridges that span the canal symbolize the historic kingdoms of Spain—Castile, León, Aragon, and Navarre—adding an extra layer of symbolism to the site.
How to Visit Plaza de España
Plaza de España is open to the public every day and is free to enter, making it one of the most accessible things to do in Seville. Stroll through the plaza to admire its intricate tilework and take a closer look at the alcoves dedicated to Spain’s provinces. For an elevated view, climb one of the staircases on either side of the plaza to reach the upper balconies. From here, you’ll enjoy a new perspective and be able to take some fantastic photos of the square below.
If you’re looking for a more unique experience, you can rent a rowboat and glide along the canal that circles the plaza. During our visits, we noticed that this activity is particularly popular with visitors from Asia, adding a fun and lively atmosphere to the area.
Street performers also bring life to the square, and it’s not uncommon to catch a flamenco or tango show from talented local artists. These performances add a vibrant, quintessentially Spanish touch to the already magical setting.
You might also see horse-drawn carriages offering tours of Plaza de España and the surrounding Parque de María Luisa. However, we’d recommend avoiding these tourist attractions involving animals, as there are plenty of other ways to enjoy this beautiful space without them.
