Sevilla

During our stay in Madrid, we took time out to go south and visit the town of Sevilla (or Seville, as translated in English... go figure). 

Seville was a nice change of pace; the weather was much warmer and we finally got a chance to break out our sunglasses.  

Seville is full of cool historic buildings, vibrantly colored streets and fun historical facts.

Did you know that Queen Isabella and Columbus (Christopher) first met in the Alcazar in Seville? 

One of our favorite spots during this visit was Plaza de España. (Plaza of Spain, but you already knew that).

This plaza is surrounded by water, and incredible architecture.

We spent half the day there, just enjoying our surroundings, eating fresh-charred chestnuts and taking pictures.

Music playing in the streets, people dancing, eating, and chatting.

The town was full of life.

We made our way to the Alcazar, which is the royal palace in Sevilla (Chris & Isabella's meeting spot).

It is also the oldest still-functioning palace in all of Europe (fun fact #2). 

The walls were full of colorful mosaic tiles, arches and and gilded ceilings everywhere; gotta love the Moorish influence.  

We ate some local seafood at a place called Pulpo ("Octopus").  We had....octopus.  Really fantastic, dusted with some smoked paprika and garlic.  Yum! 

We dogged begging gypsies offering rosemary branches and made our way for the river, where we took in the views and rested our legs. 

Seville was a blast, we hope the photos do it justice; it really is a beautiful place.  

Next time we write we'll be in Barcelona!