La Giralda

Originally meant to be the chief mosque in Seville, La Giralda is a magnificent minaret tower of the Cathedral and is famous for being the symbol of Seville. A panoramic view of the city at its best can be viewed from the top of the tower. It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

La Giralda, icon of the city is a magnificent building which had been the tallest one in the city for over 800 years. It dominates the entire skyline with a robust height of 103m. In 1195, it was originally built as a part of the Aljama mosque, but now it is the bell tower of the Cathedral. Girar, in Spanish, means to turn, and the name Giralda refers to "she who turns". It was named after the weather vane located at the top of the tower, which also has a statue representing faith, called El Giraldillo. Visitors are allowed to climb up to the bell chamber in order to get brilliant views of the city. The Alcazar and Barrio Santa Cruz are best scene from this place. La Giral also offers a bird's eye view of the Cathedral of Seville. One needs to walk up a series of steps with 35 ramps, which are pretty wide enough.