Giralda

The Giralda is the bell tower of the Seville Cathedral in Seville, Andalusia, Spain. It was originally built as the minaret of the Great Mosque of Seville during the Almohad dynasty. Construction began in 1184 and was completed in 1196.

Following the Reconquista, the mosque was converted into a cathedral. The minaret was retained and converted into a bell tower. In the 16th century, a Renaissance-style belfry was added to the top, designed by Hernán Ruiz the Younger.

The Giralda stands approximately 104.1 meters (342 ft) tall. Its most distinctive feature is its lack of stairs; instead, it contains a series of ramps, allowing muezzins (those who call Muslims to prayer) to ascend on horseback. These ramps are wide enough for two people to pass each other comfortably.

The name "Giralda" comes from the weather vane at the top of the tower, called the "Giraldillo," a bronze statue representing Faith triumphing. The Giralda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Seville's most recognizable landmarks. It offers panoramic views of the city.