Excursion to Italica from Seville

Discover the Roman City of Italica and San Isidoro del Campo Monastery Near Seville

This excursion to Italica from Seville offers an engaging journey into Spain’s early Roman history. For $80.14 per person, the tour lasts about 5 hours, combining a visit to the archaeological site of Italica with its impressive amphitheater, Roman streets, mosaics, and ruins of ancient homes, followed by a tour of the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo. The tour starts at 9:00 a.m. from Sevilla Moving and includes private, air-conditioned transportation with a guide-driver.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its focus on educational insights delivered by an expert guide, along with a relaxed pace that suits most visitors. The small group size—a maximum of eight travelers—ensures a more personalized experience. With 4 glowing reviews and a perfect 5.0-star rating, this tour is a popular choice, often booked 61 days in advance.

Key Points

• Visit the Roman city of Italica, birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, just minutes from Seville.
• Explore the third-largest Roman amphitheater with a capacity of 25,000 spectators.
• Tour Roman streets, mosaics, thermal baths, and ancient houses like Neptune’s and “the House of the Birds.”
• Discover the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, an architectural blend of Gothic-Mudejar and Renaissance styles.
• Includes admission tickets and private transportation, with guidance by an expert guide.
• Ideal for history enthusiasts and those interested in Roman Spain.

Starting Point and Convenient Logistics in Seville

The tour begins at Sevilla Moving, located at C. Luis Montoto, 19, which is near public transportation. The pickup time is 9:00 a.m., and the activity concludes back at the same meeting point. The transportation is air-conditioned and private, making the experience comfortable and intimate. With a small group size of up to 8 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly and engaging atmosphere, perfect for questions and personal interaction.

Exploring the Archaeological Ensemble of Italica

The journey to Italica starts with a quick 15-minute drive from Seville to Santiponce, the town where this first Roman city on the Iberian Peninsula was established over 2,000 years ago. Once at the site, a knowledgeable guide offers a brief overview of the city’s history, setting the scene for the exploration ahead.

The main highlight is the Roman amphitheater, which is the third-largest in the Roman Empire and capable of hosting 25,000 spectators. Visitors walk along ancient Roman streets, observing remarkably preserved mosaics like those in Neptune’s House and the House of the Birds. The thermal baths and Roman homes provide a tangible sense of daily life in antiquity.

The site’s ruins include the forum and temples, where visitors can get a sense of the political and religious hub of the ancient city. The guided narration helps explain the significance of each structure and the Roman influence on the Iberian Peninsula.

Highlights of the Roman Homes and Mosaics

Among the most striking sights are the Roman houses, where beautiful mosaics and ruins offer a glimpse into luxurious and daily life. “Neptune’s House” and “the House of the Birds” are examples of well-preserved residences that showcase intricate floor mosaics and architectural layouts. These residences are a highlight for visitors interested in Roman domestic life and artistic craftsmanship.

The thermal baths further add to the immersive experience, illustrating the public bathing culture that was central to Roman social life. The guide explains the purpose and design of these baths, enhancing understanding of the Roman social fabric.

Delving into the Political and Religious Heart of Italica

The forum and temples at Italica reveal the religious and political life of the ancient city. These remains provide a visual context for understanding the city’s governance and spiritual practices. Visitors get insights into how Roman civic and religious activities shaped daily life, making the ruins more than just stone structures but testaments to a vibrant ancient community.

The Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo: A Gothic-Mudejar and Renaissance Treasure

After the Roman ruins, the tour continues to the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo, a medieval complex founded in the 14th century. This monastic site stands out because of its architectural blend of Gothic, Mudejar, and Renaissance styles. Visitors will find paintings, murals, and sculptures that span these periods, revealing centuries of religious art and architecture.

The monastery’s fortress-like appearance complements its historical significance and architectural beauty. It offers an intriguing contrast to the Roman site, showcasing the evolution of religious architecture and art in Spain across centuries.

What to Expect Inside the Monastery

Inside the monastery, visitors observe Gothic-style sculptures, Baroque elements, and medieval murals, each telling stories of different eras. The architecture and artworks are well-preserved, making it a valuable cultural site. The guide provides explanations to help visitors appreciate the historical layers and religious importance of the complex.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This tour’s price of $80.14 includes admission tickets to both sites, private transportation, and a guiding service. It is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with the ability for questions and interaction.

While tips, food, and drinks are not included, the tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage of both Roman and medieval sites with expert guidance.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Seville

This excursion offers a unique combination of Roman archaeological exploration and medieval monastic architecture, making it ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The expert guide enhances the experience with insights and stories about the sites’ significance. The moderate duration of around 5 hours suits those looking for an engaging but manageable outing.

The convenience of private transport and the small group size add to its appeal, creating a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. The high review ratings and the expert knowledge of guides like Miguel and Francisco make this tour a reliable and enriching option.

Final Thoughts on the Italica and San Isidoro del Campo Tour

The excursion to Italica and the Monastery of San Isidoro del Campo provides an immersive experience into Spain’s ancient and medieval past. For $80.14, visitors enjoy expert-guided visits to remarkable sites that showcase Roman engineering and art, along with medieval religious architecture.

This tour is especially suited for those with a keen interest in history, architecture, or Roman culture. The small group format and personalized guidance ensure a meaningful experience. However, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration, as the sites involve significant walking across uneven terrain.

Overall, this tour combines history, architecture, and cultural storytelling in a way that makes it a highlight for anyone visiting Seville with a curiosity for Spain’s ancient civilizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including visits to both Italica and San Isidoro del Campo.

What is included in the price?
The price includes admission tickets, private transportation, and a guide-driver.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Sevilla Moving at C. Luis Montoto, 19 and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included; snacks or meals are at the traveler’s discretion.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces at the archaeological site and the monastery.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The available information does not specify accessibility details; potential participants should consider this before booking.