Itálica
Just a 15-minute drive from the centre of Seville, Italica is an archaeological jewel that transports the traveller to the time of the Roman Empire. Founded in 206 BC, this ancient Roman city was not only the birthplace of emperors such as Trajan and Hadrian, but also a key cultural and commercial centre in Roman Hispania. As you walk through its cobbled streets, a journey back in time awaits you among vestiges of temples, houses decorated with mosaics and one of the largest amphitheaters in the Roman world.
Visiting Italica by car will allow you to explore its natural and cultural environment without haste, with the freedom to make stops at nearby sites of interest. From thermal baths to medieval monasteries, this tour is designed to make the most of the history and exquisite gastronomy of Seville. You can enjoy a good meal with local products, such as the famous fried fish or tapas in Santiponce, a neighboring town of the site. Get ready for a day of history, flavor and tranquility on this wonderful driving route!
Recommended time: Half day
Trip type: Historical & Cultural, Gastronomic
Distance: 18.3 km
Time on road: 24 min
Here are the five essential plans to make the most of your visit to Italica and its surroundings:
1. Tour the impressive Roman amphitheater: Start your visit at the imposing Roman amphitheater, which can seat 25,000 spectators. This colossus, one of the largest in ancient Hispania, is famous for its underground vaults, where animals were stored for shows. As you stroll through its stands and corridors, you can imagine the intense gladiatorial combats.
2. Explore Roman houses and their mosaics: Explore the Planetarium House and the Bird House, examples of Roman residential architecture. Its well-preserved mosaics will dazzle you with mythological and geometric motifs, showing the luxurious life of the ancient inhabitants of Italica.
3. Visit the medieval monastery of San Isidoro del Campo: Just a 5-minute drive from Italica, this Gothic-Mudejar monastery is a haven of peace and history. Founded in 1301, it stands out for its double cloister and the frescoes that decorate its walls. Don't miss the chapel and its magnificent altarpiece.
4. Have lunch in Santiponce: authentic Sevillian flavor: After the historical immersion, relax in Santiponce, where you can enjoy the local cuisine. We recommend you try some sirloin tapas with whiskey or a good rice broth with seafood in one of the traditional bars near the site.
5. Disconnect with a walk along the Guadalquivir River: To end the day, we suggest a walk along the Guadalquivir nature trail, near the monastery. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and the views of the river as the sun sets. It's the perfect way to end this experience.
Where to park?
Archaeological site of Italica: There is free parking at the main entrance, although it is recommended to arrive early to secure a place, especially in high season.
Santiponce: Several streets in the town centre have free parking areas, but keep in mind that some areas may be regulated (blue zone).
Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo: The monastery itself has areas enabled to leave the car, although you can also park in the surroundings.
Advantages of booking your rental car with Gobycar
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