Torre Giralda
About
Standing proudly atop the Seville Cathedral, the Giralda tower is a testament to Andalusia's layered history. Originally built in the late 12th century as the minaret of the Almohad Mosque, it was later converted into a bell tower during the Christian conquest. Its slender, Moorish shaft rises 104.5 m, crowned by the famed Giraldillo weather‑vane. Inside, the tower’s spiraling ramps reveal intricate stucco and stonework, while the Renaissance‑style belfry at the top houses a collection of historic bells. Visitors can climb the 311 steps to reach the observation deck, where sweeping views of Seville’s skyline – from the Giralda’s own silhouette to the surrounding landmarks – are on offer. The tower is integrated into the cathedral’s UNESCO World Heritage site and blends Islamic, Gothic and Renaissance elements in a single, iconic silhouette.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 30 minutes