Golden Tower. Spain, Sevilla town

Golden Tower

Spain, Sevilla town

Tower

The Torre del Oro (Golden Tower) is one of Seville’s most iconic landmarks, located along the banks of the Guadalquivir River. This historic military structure was built in the early 13th century during the Almohad period of Muslim rule and served as part of the city's riverfront defensive system. Its name, “Tower of Gold,” is thought to derive from the golden sheen of its original façade, created by a mixture of lime and straw.

The tower has a dodecagonal (12-sided) shape and rises to a height of 36 meters. It was constructed in three stages, with the upper level and dome added in the 18th century. Historically, the tower served not only as a defensive fortification but also as a watchtower, a lighthouse, and at times a prison.

Today, the Torre del Oro houses a maritime museum, featuring exhibits on Seville’s naval history, the Age of Discovery, and the city's former role as a key port in the Spanish Empire. From the top, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the river, the Triana district, and Seville’s historic core. The Golden Tower stands as both an architectural monument and a vivid reminder of Seville’s maritime heritage.