Torre del Oro, Seville

The Torre del Oro, or "Tower of Gold", is a historic watchtower in the vibrant city of Seville, Spain. This dodecagonal military tower was constructed in the early 13th century by the Almohad Caliphate to control access to Seville via the Guadalquivir river. Standing at 36 meters tall, the Torre del Oro is an iconic landmark of the Andalusian capital and a testament to the city's rich Moorish heritage.

The name "Torre del Oro" is believed to have originated from the golden reflection the building cast on the river, thanks to the building materials used, which included a mixture of mortar, lime, and pressed hay. Another theory suggests that the tower got its name from the gold it stored, as it was part of the city's defensive walls and served as a repository for precious metals arriving from the Americas.

Throughout its history, the tower has survived threats of demolition and natural disasters, such as the Lisbon earthquake of 1755. It has served various purposes, from a prison to a safekeeping place for precious metals, and now hosts a maritime museum showcasing Seville's naval history.

The Torre del Oro offers visitors a glimpse into the city's maritime past with exhibits of ancient navigational instruments, scale models of ships, and historical documents. The top of the tower provides a panoramic view of Seville, including the Cathedral, the bullring, and the Triana neighborhood, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.