Sevilla. Part 10. Torre del Oro and Torre de la Plata

Hey everyone! Today we are going to talk about the Torre del Oro (The Tower of Gold) and the Torre de la Plata (The Tower of Silver).

The Torre del Oro is located on paseo Cristóbal Colón, on the bank of the Guadilquivir river. It was built by the Muslim governor Abe Elola. Even though it's name is "The Gold Tower, " The Torre del Oro was never filled with gold, nor was it ever filled with treasures. Its name is derived from the fact that it was once entirely coated in tiles that gave off a golden reflection. Its purpose was to defend the port during the time of the Muslim occupancy, serving as a sort of security watchtower, and today it remains imposing to look at, radiating a sort of silent power. Even after being reconquered by the Spanish, the tower was used as an imposing physical landmark or as a prime spot for people to meet up and just enjoy the day. The tower was also used as a Marine office, and for this reason it currently boasts a small naval museum in which the Ultramar Empire is displayed and remembered. This museum is often open and the precise opening hours can be consulted on the city council's website.

The Torre de Plata can be found further down the same road. Following calle Santander, we see the Torre de la Plata emerge above the houses. It is an octogonal tower from the Arab era, entirely painted in white, and from it (before there were any buildings constructed along the shore) there was a small wall called "La Coracha" that led up to the Torre del Oro.

Just a quick little post to give you all some context on what these towers are and where they are located. Thank you for reading!

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