Style de Sevilla

Best thing about Sevilla:

The beautiful courtyards, all ornately tiled, full of plants and fountains and chirping birds. Beautiful little Edens, respites from the hectic world just outside their walls.

Worst thing about Sevilla:

I CAN´T SEE MOST OF THEM! Occasionally I get a peak into a courtyard when the exterior door is left open a crack, but for the most part these little jewels are hidden from the outside world by a big exterior door, then a vestibule and a wrought iron gate just beyond the exterior door (see below).

The Spanish courtyard-style home was actually introduced by the Moors (Muslims), who ruled the Iberian peninsula for centuries during the Middle Ages. Courtyards protect the privacy of family members, particularly women, from the attentions of others.

And enclosing these fantastic spaces with simple exterior walls is in keeping with Muslim teachings to not attempt to position yourself above others. Indeed, from the outside, the houses all look pretty much the same. It´s a fantastic sentiment, with one little downside for nosy tourists like me.

And also...
Another typically Spanish architectural detail that is especially strong in this region of Southern Spain ("Andalucia") is the use of wrought-iron decorative railings, balconies, window coverings, etc... Que bonita!