Torre del Oro

As you cross the San Telmo Bridge back to the left bank, you’ll get a perfect view of one of the iconic Torre del Oro—or the Golden Tower. Isn’t it stunning by the water, framed by palm trees and boats? You could almost imagine you’re somewhere in Morocco. Built by the Almohads in the 13th century as part of the city’s defensive system, the tower monitored river traffic and controlled maritime trade. Back then, the tower had only one level, and massive chains were stretched across the river to block enemy ships. According to legend, Ferdinand III’s fleet broke through these chains during the Christian reconquest of Seville. In the 14th century, King Peter of Castile added a second floor. Later, during the great race for the Indies and the wealth following Columbus’s voyages, the tower was used to store precious metals arriving from the New World—hence its name: the Golden Tower. Declared a site of cultural interest in 1931, it has housed a maritime museum since 1944. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating collection of maps, letters, model ships, and old navigation instruments—perfect for anyone interested in maritime history!