Weekend Getaways

Seville

Nestled along the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville, the capital of Andalusia is one of the most historical and economically important cities in Spain. Seville is a complex, yet relaxing and charming city, stylish, lively, sun-kissed and full of narrow streets, small plazas, beautiful parks, and gardens. Orange trees line each street, Muslim monuments tower over the old city, bullfights and Flamenco dances are daily celebrations. Like the best of European cities, Seville combines everything that you could possibly demand, from a wealth of monuments and history to its contemporary business facilities and shopping centers.

Cordoba

Córdoba was first settled by the Romans, conquered by the Muslims andclaimed as the capital of Al-Andalus, and then re-conquered by the Christians in 1236. An exceptionally beautiful city that is full of history and relics from the Moorish Empire, the most spectacular being the 8th-century mosque with painted columns and arches. The mosque is so magnificent that it has been preserved, to a certain extent, by Christian Kings and Queens through the changes of religion. Much Like Seville, Cordoba's old quarter is a winding maze of whitewashed buildings, overgrown balconies, and small entrances that give way to lush patios full of beautiful flowers. It definitely has a quaint and old world atmosphere.

Granada

On a hill overlooking Granada, the Alhambra-a sprawling palace-citadel that comprised royal residential quarters, court complexes flanked by official chambers, a bath, and a mosque-was begun in the thirteenth century by Ibn al-Ahmar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty, and was continued by his successors in the fourteenth century. The legacy of the Muslim occupation of Spain is best preserved in Granada, specifically at the Alhambra. This is the most dominating structure in the city and well worth the visit. The city itself lies at the foot of Spain's mightiest massif, the Sierra Nevada, and on the edge of an extraordinarily fertile plain, which creates a stunning background for the beautiful architecture and surroundings in the city of Granada.

Gibraltar

When you first see the Rock of Gibraltar, whether it is from the air, from thesea or from either the Costa del Sol or the western end of the Bay, it is impressive, towering above the surrounding countryside. The Spanish conquered Gibraltar from the Moors in 1492 only to lose it to England after the War of the Spanish Succession. Expect delays at the border and take your passport. Gibraltar is excellent shopping for English goods and food. Historically and geographically it is unique but sadly the town is unkempt, overcrowded and dirty.

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