The Definitive Guide to the Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz in Seville: History, What to See and Hidden Secrets

Welcome to a labyrinth of cobbled streets, flower-filled patios, and shady squares where time seems to stand still. The Santa Cruz neighborhood is Seville's old Jewish quarter and, without a doubt, the city's most iconic and photogenic corner. Getting lost in its hidden alleyways is the best way to discover its magic. In this comprehensive guide, we reveal all its secrets, from its fascinating history to the corners known only to locals.

1. A Walk Through History: From Jewish Quarter to Emblem of Seville

Santa Cruz wasn't always the picture-postcard neighborhood we know today. Its history is deep and marked by several 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.

The Expulsion and Abandonment: After the Edict of Expulsion of the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, the neighborhood was practically abandoned and fell into decline.

Renaissance in the 20th Century: The transformation that the picturesque neighborhood we see today underwent came for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. Squares were renovated, dead ends were opened, and orange and jasmine trees 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 points on the map.

The Cathedral and the Giralda: Although technically adjacent, the majestic Seville Cathedral and its bell tower, the Giralda, are the epicenter from which the neighborhood expands. Climbing the Giralda will reward you with 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 peaceful square with a wrought-iron cross in the center, which gives the neighborhood its name. It's perfect for a relaxing break in the shade of its greenery.

Plaza de los Venerables: One of the most beautiful sights. Surrounded by bars and restaurants, it is the heart of the Santa Cruz neighborhood and where our Halo Boutique Hotel is located.

Water Alley: This alley connects the Alcázar with Alfaro Square. It is said that the aqueduct that carried water to the palace once ran through here. Its walls, covered in vines and flowers, are a magnet for photographs.

Santa María la Blanca Street: A lively street connecting Santa Cruz with the San Bartolomé neighborhood. It's full of outdoor cafes and souvenir shops, and features 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 folksy atmosphere, it is said to have inspired the setting of the plays "Don Juan Tenorio." Today it is the perfect place to sit and enjoy the purest essence of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, and is home to the welcoming Hotel Boutique Elvira Plaza .

3. Itineraries for Getting Lost

The best way to experience the Santa Cruz neighborhood is without a map. But Sevilla Hotels Collection suggests the following route:

Start at the Jerez Gate.
Take a stroll through the gardens of the Alcázar.
Enter through Water Alley.
Let yourself be carried away to Alfaro Square.
Continue along the Callejón del Agua and peek into the private courtyards that are open to admire their vegetation and the care that the owners put into them.
Continue to Plaza de Santa Cruz.
Finish your walk by going down Mateos Gago Street. From the moment you enter, via Mesón del Moro Street, you can admire the Giralda. As you walk down, you will finally see the complete view of the famous monument.

As a final touch, we recommend dining at El Giraldillo restaurant , a designated landmark of Seville located opposite the Giralda, at the entrance to the Santa Cruz neighborhood. There you can enjoy traditional Andalusian and Sevillian dishes, always with a modern twist and excellent service.

4. The Magic of the Night and the 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 have spectacular interior courtyards that can sometimes be admired through the iron gates. During the 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 you're part of the neighborhood? Stay there. Waking up to the sound of birds and exploring its streets is a unique experience, especially since it's located right in the heart of Seville's historic center. There are two options, tailored to the needs of every visitor to Seville:

Stay in a courtyard house: For a truly local experience, our boutique hotel Casas de Santa Cruz , located on Calle Pimienta, offers the opportunity to stay in a restored, traditional courtyard house, with all its historical charm and modern amenities. 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 Vida Boutique Apartments are the perfect choice. Located in the heart of the neighborhood, with a variety of options and apartments of different sizes to suit our guests' travel needs, they'll allow you to live like a true Sevillian.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

When to go: Spring is magical with its scent of orange blossom 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 athletic, the best option.

Getting lost: Don't be afraid to do it. It's the best way to discover hidden squares and secret corners that aren't in the guidebooks.

The Santa Cruz neighborhood is more than just a list of places to see; it's a sensory experience. It's the scent of orange blossoms, the sound of water from a hidden fountain, the feel of whitewashed walls, and the taste of tapas 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 .