While in Seville, visit Plaza de San Francisco, which sits in the shadow of the 12th-century Giralda bell tower. Go for a walk through this lively area, stopping to take photos of the surrounding historical buildings
The plaza’s long history dates back to at least the first half of the 13th century. Over the years it has been known by various names such as the Plaza de la Constitucion and the Plaza del Rey. Its current name comes from an old Franciscan convent that used to be sited here.
This central plaza has also served many different functions. During the Middle Ages, it was a bullring and later a space where members of the Spanish Inquisition decided who would burn at the stake.
The square’s most prominent building is the town hall, the Ayuntamiento de Sevilla. The façade that faces Plaza de San Francisco is a magnificent example of 16th-century Plateresque architecture, with decorations including statues of mythical and historical figures. Go on a guided tour of the interior to explore stately rooms and browse works of art. Note that the entry to the town hall is actually on the side of the building that faces Plaza Nueva.
Contemplate the grand principal façade of the Bank of Spain building and the pink frontage of the Real Audiencia court building which is now the home of a financial institution. Stop by the Laredo Building, a Seville landmark housing the iconic Bar Laredo and a tourist information center.
If you are in Seville during the week leading up to Easter Sunday head to the square because it offers a good vantage point to watch some of the processions.
Find the Plaza de San Francisco in the heart of the historical center within walking distance from numerous attractions such as the Giralda and the Plaza del Triunfo.
Leave the square via Calle Sierpes, a narrow pedestrianized thoroughfare lined with independent boutiques, clothes stores, antique shops, bars and cafés. During the early hours of Good Friday in the Easter period, a procession passes through this street.
