Andalucía is considered by many to be the "real" Spain, with its passionate flamenco, huge fiestas, bullfights and grand Moorish and Christian architecture. Seville, as Andalucía's capital, embodies all of this.

Seville was once one of the richest and largest cities in the world, when its port on the Guadalquivir River served as a gateway to the riches of the New World opened by Columbus. Trade decreased as the years went by, leaving many great historic buildings intact.

The city is probably best known for its lavish street parties. During Holy Week (Semana Santa), the week before Easter, thousands of fervent worshippers and lively partygoers flood the city. Large processions of hooded penitents march through the streets carrying candles. The April Spring Fair (Feria) was originally an agricultural show that has blossomed into a week-long fiesta of drinking, bullfights and parades.

The center of town is dominated by the immensity of the Cathedral, its famous Moorish bell tower and Pedro the Cruel's great palace, the Alcázar. In contrast to the grand buildings and fiestas are the quiet and beautiful gardens and parks, many in the grounds of historic buildings and full of secluded nooks. Some of the city's best museums lie near to the rambling gardens of Parque de María Luisa.

Seville has been experiencing something of a revival since the Expo World Fair in 1992, when much of the city was smartened up and modernized. Even so, it is still an intimate and romantic city with many small winding streets to explore.

The Insight FlexiMap of Seville is a great travel addition. Here is an innovative laminated folding map that marries durability and convenience with accuracy, utility, and readability.

Produced with state-of-the-art technology, FlexiMaps feature detailed city street and road maps clearly marked with all the sites and services of particular interest to travelers.

Text and photographs offer a wealth of valuable tourist information including "10 sights you shouldn't miss," plus information on transportation, visas, currency, important telephone numbers, emergency services, and more.

Price: $7.95