Uncover the captivating history of Spain on this immersive tour. Venture to the ancient Roman ruins of Italica, the birthplace of two emperors, and marvel at its impressive amphitheater and stunning mosaics. Then, explore the architectural wonders of the 12th-century Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, learning about its rich past. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Seville’s cultural heritage. Eager to discover more?
Key Points
- 4-hour guided tour from Seville to Italica Roman City and Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, costing $42.43 per person.
- Explore the birthplace of Roman emperors Trajan and Hadrian, featuring one of the largest amphitheaters in the Roman Empire.
- Marvel at the well-preserved ruins of Italica, showcasing intricate mosaics and advanced Roman engineering.
- Visit the 12th-century Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, a Romanesque architectural marvel with historical significance.
- Enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and the option of shared or private experiences with multilingual guides.
Tour Overview
This tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the ancient Roman city of Italica and the medieval Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.
Departing from Seville, the 4-hour tour costs $42.43 per person and includes guided visits to both sites. Participants can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour operates with comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and is available as a shared or private experience. Guided in multiple languages, the tour highlights the birthplace of Roman Emperors Trajan and Hadrian, the impressive Italica amphitheater, and the historic monastery.
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Exploring Italica: The Birthplace of Emperors
Founded in the 2nd century BC, the ancient Roman city of Italica was the birthplace of two Roman Emperors – Trajan and Hadrian.
Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and uncover the grandeur of this once-thriving metropolis.
Key highlights include:
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The impressive amphitheater, one of the largest in the Roman Empire, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators.
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Intricate mosaics and architectural details that showcase the city’s former opulence.
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Filming locations used in the hit TV series Game of Thrones, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the experience.
Architectural Wonders of Italica
Although the ancient Roman city of Italica is renowned for its impressive amphitheater, the architectural wonders extend far beyond this iconic structure.
The well-preserved ruins reveal a meticulously planned city, complete with a grid-like layout, paved streets, and an extensive drainage system. Highlights include the remarkably intact mosaic floors, which showcase intricate designs and vivid colors.
The public baths, with their hypocaust heating system, offer a glimpse into the luxurious amenities available to Italica’s residents.
Beyond the amphitheater, the city’s architectural achievements stand as a testament to the Romans’ engineering prowess and attention to detail.
Uncovering Italica’s Connections to Game of Thrones
While Italica is renowned for its impressive Roman architecture, the ancient city has also captured the attention of modern audiences as a filming location for the hit HBO series Game of Thrones.
The city’s well-preserved ruins, particularly the grand amphitheater, have served as backdrops for several iconic scenes in the show.
Fans of the series can:
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Explore the same pathways that were traversed by Tyrion Lannister and Daenerys Targaryen.
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Imagine the roar of the crowd in the amphitheater, where gladiatorial battles were once fought.
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Immerse themselves in the rich history that has unfolded within Italica’s ancient walls.
Visiting the Monastery of San Isidoro Del Campo
Why does the tour also include a visit to the medieval Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo?
The monastery offers a glimpse into Spain’s rich history. Built in the 12th century, it features Romanesque architecture and houses the tombs of noble families.
Visitors can explore the beautiful cloisters and learn about the monastery’s role in the Reconquista period. The guided tour provides insights into the monastery’s religious and cultural significance, complementing the Roman ruins of Italica.
At just 40 minutes, the monastery visit allows travelers to experience another important aspect of Seville’s heritage in a compact timeframe.
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Discovering the Monastery’s Architectural Marvels
What architectural marvels await visitors at the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo? The monastery’s mesmerizing Gothic and Mudejar styles captivate the senses.
The Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo enthralls with its captivating fusion of Gothic and Mudejar architectural marvels.
Highlights include:
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The striking façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and towering archways that evoke a sense of grandeur.
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The breathtaking cloister, featuring exquisite Baroque and Renaissance elements, where visitors can lose themselves in the tranquility of the serene surroundings.
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The magnificent church, with its soaring vaulted ceilings, ornate altars, and stunning collection of religious artwork that transport visitors back in time.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour includes round-trip transportation from central Seville locations to the archaeological site of Italica and the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo.
Comfortable, air-conditioned vans shuttle guests between the city and the two historic sites, with the journey taking around 30 minutes each way.
After exploring Italica, the tour continues to the medieval monastery, just a short 10-minute drive away.
At the end of the tour, guests are returned to their original starting points in Seville.
This convenient transportation ensures a seamless experience, allowing visitors to focus on the fascinating history and architecture.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Hundreds of travelers have shared their experiences on this tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 774 reviews.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and entertaining guides, who provide informative historical insights. Guests are particularly impressed by:
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The well-preserved ruins of Italica, including the impressive amphitheater.
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The striking mosaics and architectural details throughout the ancient site.
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The guided tour of the medieval Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, which offers a fascinating contrast to the Roman remains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs and gifts during the tour. The tour includes stops at the historic sites, where visitors can find local handicrafts, artwork, and other items to commemorate their experience.
Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t include any food or drink options, but there are opportunities to purchase refreshments during the stops at Italica and the monastery. Travelers can bring their own snacks and beverages if desired.
What Should I Bring or Wear to Ensure a Comfortable Experience?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and dress for the weather. Bring water and snacks if desired, as there may not be opportunities to purchase food and drink during the tour.
Is There Any Flexibility in the Tour Schedule or Itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility, as the schedule and itinerary can be adjusted to accommodate participants’ needs and interests. Travelers are encouraged to communicate any specific requests or requirements to the tour operator in advance.
Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Stops if I’m Interested?
The tour has a set itinerary, but customers can inquire about adding extra stops or extending the duration if they’re interested in exploring more. The tour operator may be able to accommodate these requests, subject to availability.
The Sum Up
The "From Seville: Italica Roman City & Medieval Monastery Tour" offers a captivating journey through Spain’s rich history. Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of Italica, the birthplace of Roman emperors, and marvel at the architectural wonders of the 12th-century Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour provides a compelling glimpse into Seville’s cultural heritage, making it a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the region’s storied past.
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