Courtyard of the Maidens at Royal Alcazars Seville

The Serene Courtyard of the Maidens at Royal Alcazars Seville

Exuding a serene feeling, Courtyard of the Maidens at Royal Alcazars is captivating. Entwined with myths and legends, this enticing patio features simplicity with intricate and tasteful design. A perfect embodiment of Mudéjar architecture and an unmissable courtyard at the outstanding Royal Palace of Seville.

1 | Courtyard of the Maidens at Royal Alcazars

Set within the magnificent and one of the most splendid royal palaces in the world, Courtyard of the Maidens or El Patio de las Doncellas is attributed to the Castilian King Pedro I (Peter the Cruel) of the 13th century. Inscriptions found here refer to him as the reigning sultan.

1.1 | Legend associated with the Maidens’ Courtyard

This serene courtyard is unfortunately associated with a legend. Apparently, the Muslim Emirate of Cordoba at the time demanded one hundred virgins from the Christian rulers of Andalusia as an annual tribute. Built in memory of the virgins, one can imagine the profound effect this degraded legend had on the psyche of the people living at the time and those building the courtyard.

Though fictional, I can’t help but feel that the patio laments the sorrow of all those who may have lost their daughters, with each piece of its intricate work representing a poetic rhythm in their memory.

1.2 | The Maidens’ Courtyard today

Today, Patio of the Maidens is a tranquil haven. It has a beautifully laid out sunken garden, with an elegant long pool in the centre. Surrounded by twenty-four arches supported by white marble columns, assiduous plaster work and tiling. There are sculptures of knights, coats of arms, hands and masks which were added during the Renaissance period in the 16th century.

The lower courtyard is bewitching with ceramic tiles in lattice patterns with vibrant colours of turquoise, royal blue and orange. Handmade and painstakingly crafted with coloured pieces inserted into them. The designs feature stars and linked by ribbons to represent divine infinity. The plaster works feature motifs such as flowers and shells linked to fertility while the lion and castle stucco are associated with Spanish monarchy.

The upper floors were added during the reign of Charles V and includes Renaissance and Mudéjar decorations. It took about thirty-two years to complete (1540 to 1572).

Recommended read: The Real Alcázar of Seville | A Guide to the BEST 22 Unmissable Highlights in the Alcázar Complex

2 | Recent discovery of the sunken garden at the Maidens’ Courtyard

When the Castilian King Pedro I died in 1369, the sunken garden was paved over with marble coverings in 1570s and a fountain was placed in the centre. It was recently uncovered by archaeologists in 2004, and the original layout was restored.

However, the sunken garden was temporarily paved over again with marble as it was needed as a set for the movie, Kingdom of Heaven. The Maidens’ Courtyard was reconverted after the filming was completed.

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3 | Tip: Visiting Courtyard of the Maidens

When you visit Courtyard of the Maidens, do so unhurriedly. Take your time to walk around, enjoy the tranquility and the beautiful architecture of the building. Look up and admire the wooden carved ceilings.

Around the patio, are royal rooms such as the Infant Room, Philip II Ceiling Room, Charles V Ceiling Room and access to another grand room, the Ambassadors’ Hall.

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** all photos and video © timelesstravelsteps.com

finally …

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