An ancient wing of Reales Alcázares de Sevilla, a palace that once was a Moorish fort.
I can't stay away. At every opportunity, I return to this magical city, where I am dazzled by its beauty, its art and architecture and its rich history. I am enamored of Sevilla's arch-filled palaces, lush green gardens and airy tiled courtyards.
In a city full of night owls, I am completely at home. Even with my limited Spanish, I can order a variety of tapas, smoky Iberico ham and chilled dry fino. I can walk along the Guadalquivir River and over the bridge to Triana, the working-class home to flamenco and handmade tiles. I can bicycle or ride the tramway to Plaza de Espana, where water once again fills its "moats." I can listen to the plaintive wail of Spanish guitars drifting down narrow alleyways in the moonlight.
Beginning next month, I'll briefly be in Sevilla for a photo project. In early November, I'll be back in Sevilla, collaborating on a project with a Spanish photographer. Later my husband will join me for a working holiday in Cordoba, El Rocio and other areas of Andalucia. My mother would say I'm "wishing my life away," but I can't wait to return to Spain!
An open-air balcony overlooking landscaped gardens and tall palms.
A dark tiled passageway at Alcazar Palace.
Marble pillars and floors, along with elaborate stucco-relief and tiled walls and ceilings at Alcazar. Such magnificent Moorish architecture is one of the myriad reasons I adore visiting Spain.
In Spain's machismo culture, a handful of female matadors are making their mark. Veronica Rodriguez, 23, is pictured during a bullfight at Plaza de Toros de Sevilla, July, 2010. Click photos to enlarge.
Veronica Rodriguez watches another young bullfighter in the ring.
Have you traveled to Spain? What's your favourite city or place to visit? While I am fond of Madrid and Barcelona, Sevilla holds a special place in my heart.
Clear and concise. Anticipating a lot more like this.
Posted by: catherine | 19 August 2011 at 10:45
Much love Spain! :)
Lovely photos as always Tara!
Posted by: gracey | 19 August 2011 at 08:34
Beautiful. I have never been to Spain, but it is on my short list. I do detest the bull fighting, however. Love the Andalusian horses bred there.
Posted by: Mary Jane | 17 August 2011 at 22:23
My family is from Oviedo. I have lived in Spain, it is in many ways home. I do detest from every fiber of my being bull fighting. Your images as always a treasure. I miss your words Tara and I hope you are doing well and immersed in many projects. Hugs to you!
Posted by: Yoli | 17 August 2011 at 21:11
Your photos entice me to want to see more. I have only been to Barcelona, but the first time pulled at my heart and I wanted to see more of that beautiful city. I went back the next year just to see more, but still feel I only scratched the surface. Now I would love to venture out further, your photos tell me so.
Posted by: Marilyn | 17 August 2011 at 17:54
I would LOVE to return to Seville! I recognize many of the places you share here! We saw a Flamenco performance in the old Jewish part of the city...a magical event.
Other favorites...Los Arcos, an Andalusian white city and BARCELONA!!
I will return someday.
x..x
Posted by: Stephanie | 17 August 2011 at 16:07
If I lived here I would be good, always. And I would set all the bulls free, and take away everyone's urge to do such ugly things and torturing innocent bovine creatures.
Such beauty viewed through your lens.
Posted by: Limner | 17 August 2011 at 07:48
Your mother may think I am wishing my life away as well, Tara, but I wish I was going with you to Spain!
Posted by: Mary H. | 17 August 2011 at 00:28