Ultimate Guide to Seville's Santa Cruz Jewish Quarter: History, What to See and Hidden Secrets
Welcome to a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, flower-filled courtyards, and shaded squares where time seems to have stood still. The Santa Cruz neighborhood is Seville's old Jewish quarter and, without a doubt, the most iconic and photogenic corner of the city. Getting lost in its nooks and crannies is the best way to discover its magic. In this comprehensive guide, we reveal all its secrets, from its fascinating history to the spots only locals know about.
Plaza Doña Elvira, located in the very heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood.
1. A Walk Through History: From Jewish Quarter to Seville's Emblem
Santa Cruz wasn't always the postcard-perfect neighborhood we know today. Its history is deep and marked by various cultures.
The Medieval Jewish Quarter: After the reconquest of Seville by Ferdinand III in 1248, the Jewish population concentrated in this network of streets, which was then walled and had its own gates. It was a center of cultural and economic prosperity.
Expulsion and Abandonment: After the Edict of Expulsion by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, the neighborhood was practically abandoned and fell into decay.
Rebirth in the 20th Century: The transformation into the picturesque neighborhood we see today came for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Squares were renovated, dead-end alleys were opened, and orange trees and jasmine were planted, giving it the romantic appearance that made it world-famous.
2. What to See in the Santa Cruz Neighborhood: The Must-Sees
You can't leave Seville without marking these spots on your map.
The Cathedral and the Giralda: Although technically bordering, the majestic Seville Cathedral and its bell tower, the Giralda, are the epicenter from which the neighborhood expands. Climbing the Giralda will give you the best views.
The Royal Alcázar: The oldest royal palace still in use in Europe. Its gardens, of unparalleled beauty, are an oasis of peace.
Plaza de Santa Cruz: A tranquil square with a wrought-iron cross in the center, which gives the neighborhood its name. It's perfect for a rest in the shade of its vegetation.
Plaza de los Venerables: One of the most beautiful postcards. Surrounded by bars and restaurants, it's the heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood and where you'll find our Halo Boutique Hotel.
Callejón del Agua: Connects the Alcázar with Plaza de Alfaro. It's said that the aqueduct that carried water to the palace ran through here. Its walls, covered with vines and flowers, are a magnet for photographs.
Calle Santa María la Blanca: A lively street that connects Santa Cruz with the San Bartolomé neighborhood. Full of terraces and souvenir shops, with a beautiful church that gives it its name.
Plaza de Doña Elvira: A charming square, surrounded by orange trees and tiled benches. With a romantic and popular air, it's said to inspire the setting for the works of "Don Juan Tenorio." Today it's the perfect place to sit and enjoy the purest essence of the Santa Cruz neighborhood and where you'll find the cozy Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza.
3.Itineraries for Getting Lost
The best way to experience the Santa Cruz neighborhood is without a map. But fromSevilla Hotels Collection we suggest the following route:
Start at Puerta Jerez.
Walk through the Alcázar gardens.
Enter through the Callejón del Agua.
Let yourself wander to Plaza de Alfaro.
Continue along the Callejón del Agua and peek into any private courtyards that are open to admire their vegetation and the care their owners put into them.
Continue to Plaza de Santa Cruz.
End your walk by going down Calle Mateos Gago; from the moment you enter, through Calle Mesón del Moro, you'll be able to admire the Giralda. As you go down, you'll finally see the complete image of the famous monument.
As a final touch, we recommend eating at the restaurante El Giraldillo,located opposite the Giralda, at the entrance to the Santa Cruz neighborhood. Here you can enjoy traditional Andalusian and Sevillian dishes, always with a touch of modernity and excellent service.
4. The Magic of Night and Hidden Courtyards
The Santa Cruz neighborhood transforms at night. The atmosphere becomes more intimate and magical. Many of the houses and apartments in the neighborhood preserve spectacular interior courtyards that can sometimes be admired through the railings. During spring, many are adorned with flowers.
5. Where to Stay: Experience the Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz in Seville
Want to know the best way to feel like part of the neighborhood? Stay in it. Waking up to the sound of birds and going out to explore its streets is a unique experience, plus it's located in the very heart of Seville's historic center. There are two options, tailored to the needs of every visitor in Seville:
- Stay in a courtyard house: For a 100% local experience, our Hotel Boutique Casas de Santa Cruz, located on Calle Pimienta, offers the opportunity to stay in a typical restored courtyard house, with all the historic charm and modern comforts. Ideal for those seeking privacy and authenticity.
- The comfort of a charming apartment: If you prefer the flexibility of an apartment with hotel services, our Apartamentos Boutique Vida are the perfect choice. Located in the very heart of the neighborhood and with different proposals and houses of various capacities that adapt to our clients' type of trip, they will allow you to live like a true local.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- When to go: Spring is magical because of the scent of orange blossoms and jasmine. Autumn is also beautiful. In summer, visit early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the hottest hours.
- Footwear: The historic cobblestone streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood make comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers, the best option.
- Get lost: Don't be afraid to do so. It's the best way to discover hidden little squares and secret corners that don't appear in guidebooks.
The Santa Cruz Neighborhood is more than a list of places to see; it's a sensory experience. It's the smell of orange blossoms, the sound of water from a hidden fountain, the touch of whitewashed walls, and the taste of a tapa in a century-old bar. We hope this guide helps you discover it and, why not, choose it as your home during your stay in Seville.
Discover the authenticity of the Santa Cruz neighborhood by staying in an authentic courtyard house at Hotel Boutique Casas de Santa Cruz.
