Torre del Oro

Why go

The Almohad riverside tower explains how medieval Seville controlled the Guadalquivir. Its upper level gives a compact view toward Triana and the historic waterfront. At Torre del Oro, compare both closely. Torre del Oro rewards a slower circuit. Torre del Oro rewards a slower circuit.

What to look for

• The Almohad riverside tower explains how medieval Seville controlled the Guadalquivir.
• Its upper level gives a compact view toward Triana and the historic waterfront.

The full story

The Torre del Oro ("Gold Tower") is a dodecagonal military watchtower in Seville, southern Spain, built by the Berbers during the Almohad dynasty in order to control access to Seville via the Guadalquivir river. Constructed in the first third of the 13th century, the tower served as a prison during the Middle Ages and as a secure enclosure for the protection of precious metals periodically brought by the fleet of the Indies, another possible origin for the tower's name. The tower is divided into three levels, with the third and upermost being circular in shape and added in 1760. This tower has a lesser known half sister: La Torre de la Plata, an octagonal tower. Today the tower, having been restored, is a naval museum, containing engravings, letters, models, instruments, and historic documents. The museum outlines the naval history of Seville and the importance of its river. Seville - eTips.

Useful to know

• Check the official visitor calendar and reserve ahead when timed entry matters.
• Combine it with nearby stops to avoid crossing the city twice in the strongest afternoon heat.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.