Another hot day, although less so than yesterday.
After breakfast at our usual spot - with great coffee - we headed off to the Alcazar. This is the jewel in Seville's crown and is still used by the Royal Family when they are in Seville. Thankfully not today.
The palace was the original site of Muslim kings in the late 10th century. Being a working palace the architecture has continued to evolve in styles, from Mudejar through to neo-classical.
We used an audio guide which was most helpful when it worked; probably about 70% of the time.
The palace is designed around many beautiful patios with the most outstanding being the Patio de las Doncellas (maidens). It is just so perfect. Taking a photo without someone blocking the shot took a lot of patience. Helping out a solo German woman with a photo of her in this place was harder work. I know why she's single.
Upstairs was a display of ceramics from the 14th century. Some designs were quite intricate while others were customized portraits.
The gardens around the Alcazar are extensive. There's quite a bit of restoration work underway although not enough to spoil the visit.
We headed out from here and elected to go to Plaza de Espana. We had lunch near where the horse and carriages stop for customers. It was a bit like eating in a stable.
The Plaza de Espana was built for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1929. It's like the Royal Exhibition Building on speed. Impossible to get the facade in one shot. Now used as government offices, there are tiled stalls around the ground level for each major Spanish city. The tiles depict a scene that was seminal in that city's history.
From here, the pool was yelling! Back to the hotel for a recovery and rest session.
While Bruce had a massage I went to the roof terrace to watch the sunset. While nice it was not spectacular as there is no moisture in the air to draw in the evening clouds.
Dinner was back to Plaza de la Cueva to another restaurant - except it used the same kitchen. Nice food and fresh bread!