Gap Year in Seville, Spain
Experience magnificent architecture and a slower pace of life in this romantic Spanish city.
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The architecture in Seville serves not only as a stunning backdrop to the city, but also a history book that tells the story of Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Roman, and Visigoth influences.
Glimpse the Gothic cathedrals, Moorish palaces, and renaissance-style plazas, and you'll understand why the city has been a favorite location for film and TV producers looking for a magical backdrop—making it into productions such as Lawrence of Arabia, Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, and Game of Thrones (appearing as the city of Dorne).
Seville is extremely pedestrian- and biker-friendly, making it an easy city to explore on your own. While interacting with locals, you'll notice (and might even pick up!) their unique Sevillan-Andalusian accent, famous for its rapid pace and omitting of certain consonants. While you're interning there, you might even adopt a few aspects of the Sevillan lifestyle: notably, a late breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a willingness to live in the present without stressing too much about future plans. Pretty great work culture, right?
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Count the tiles in Plaza de España. An iconic landmark of Seville, this plaza features a blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Moorish architecture. The plaza is filled with intricate Sevillan painted tiles, or azulejos, that tell the story of its people.
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It's a bird! It's a plane! It's...mushrooms? An unexpectedly modern structure located in the heart of the Old Quarter, the Metropol Parasol—affectionately nicknamed "Las Setas," or the mushrooms—is supposedly the largest wooden structure in the world. Some love it, some hate it—you be the judge!
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Visit Spain's most photogenic palace. The Royal Alcázars of Seville is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still in use by the Spanish royal family today. You can view the inner rooms for an extra fee.
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The stunning patio area of The Royal Alcázars of Seville.
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Eat fish and chips—Spanish style. Fried seafood is a common (and delicious) lunchtime meal for locals.
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Chase panoramic views at the top of La Giralda. This historic bell tower is not only an iconic part of Seville's skyline, but also an access point for stunning panoramic views of the city.
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Wander the streets of Barrio Santa Cruz. Barrio Santa Cruz served as the Jewish quarter before the Spanish Inquisition. Today, it is home to charming buildings, artisan shops, galleries, and narrow, jasmine-scented streets.