architecture | Azahar Sevilla

360º Setas

July 9, 2011 azahar1 Comment

[click on image to enlarge]

This morning I took another trip up to the top of the Metropol Parasol to try out my new iPhone app that allows me to take 360º photos… I think I need more practice but this was the best of the few I tried out.

I also saw that they have finally put up info boards that explain what you are looking at from the main outlook points. They also now have pay-per-view telescopes that warn you not to look directly into the sun (duh).

A tip – do try to get there just after opening time (10 am) as it is lovely and cool and there is nobody else around.

Cathedral Rooftop Visit

May 18, 2011 azahar1 Comment

These are a few photos I took whilst trying not to panic the other day when I went on that fabulous Cathedral rooftop tour. It truly was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, though not the best place for an agoraphobic like me. But I was very pleased with myself that I managed to get through and even take that video I posted below. I admit that a few of these photos were actually taken with my eyes shut – especially those where I had to lean over the railing under the vaulted Cathedral ceiling. Later when I got back down I could not believe that I’d really been standing behind those huge wooden angels. In fact, I still can’t believe it. Go me!

Giralda Bells

May 17, 2011 azaharLeave a comment

Last week I had the wonderful opportunity of taking a tour of the Cathedral rooftops. Still editing those photos but meanwhile here’s a short video I made while very close up to the Giralda with the bells ringing, which was both exciting and a bit scary.

Paper Birds

May 12, 2011 azaharLeave a comment

[click to enlarge]

This evening I was walking home after a bit of grocery shopping and was suddenly delighted by the sight of hundreds of multi-coloured paper birds in the trees of Plaza Encarnación. If I hadn’t had my hands full I would have taken out Niko; instead I just snapped a few quick shots with my iPhone. If you look closely you can see a bit of a “Seta” in the background of the lower right hand pic. Anyhow, I thought they might make you smile too.

Mirador

May 9, 2011 azahar6 Comments

[click on image to enlarge]

The brand new Espacio Metropol Parasol, known locally, for obvious reasons, as the “Setas” (Mushrooms), rears its head like some giant, modernistic sculpture above the Plaza de la Encarnación, in almost the exact centre of the Casco Antiguo, where its futuristic latticework construction and fluid, curved appearance are in marked contrast to its surroundings. Like a lot of people, at first I wasn’t sure if I loved it or loathed it, but now it feels like it belongs and it’s well worth a visit for a number of reasons, apart from simply gawping.

Underneath the structure is the Antiquarium, where you can view the Roman ruins uncovered when work on the site began. At ground level is the Encarnación Market, above which is a plaza in the shade of the parasols. I think the space is rather bare, and prefer the shade of the big trees on the other side of the square, but perhaps too much clutter would interfere with its intended use for concerts and other events. You can also take the lift up to the mirador/walkway at the top of the parasols, which opened last Wednesday, and enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the city below. A circular restaurant where you will be able to enjoy the view over a meal and a drink is due to open soon.

I went up to the top of the parasol on Friday and have to say I enjoyed the curviness of the structure as much as the fabulous views. I could also see my cat in the upstairs window of my rooftop terrace, which felt… odd. Can’t wait to go up at night.

Opening hours: 10am – 2pm / 5.30 – 10pm
Cost: 2 euros for non-residents