There are so many famous sights in Seville that it seems perhaps a little magical when you find something which feels a bit “off the beaten track”. Seville’s Magic Mushrooms are exactly that. The Setas de Sevilla (also known as the Metropol Parasol) can be found on the Plaza de Encarnación and if you didn’t know any better, you may well pass by thinking they were simply something a little bit strange.
Find your way to the entrance and prepare to be amazed. Down on the basement level is the Antiquarium where you can learn all about the ancient history of the city. But if you have had enough of history, go straight to the ticket office and buy a ticket to ride the lift up to the mushrooms. It’s only €3 and includes a free drink in the cafe. If you are lucky enough to have been born in Seville, or you are resident there, entry is free, but I presume you have to pay for your drink!
As you emerge from the lift, turn right and walk around the elevated circuit giving magnificent views over the entire city of Seville. There are a few information boards pointing out important landmarks. There are also telescopes which you can pay to use, but when I visited most of them were broken which is such a shame. Then relax and enjoy the view with a cool tinto de verano or an ice cold beer. Soft drinks are available too!!
The project began way back in 2005 and is estimated to have cost a staggering €50 million. The setas finally opened their doors to the public in 2011. Five years on and time is taking its toll as witnessed by the non-functioning telescopes which don’t seem to be being maintained. Still, when you stroll around 26m above the city, it is an amazing experience for anyone to have, even if there are one or two parts looking a bit tatty.
Who knows, maybe you’ll meet a long lost friend up there! (Actually, I saw on Facebook that Rachel was in the city so I told her where we were. It was great meeting up after 3 years.)
