Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol), Seville (must see)

The Metropol Parasol, often called the “Mushrooms of Seville” because of its distinctive shape, is one of the city’s most impressive modern landmarks. Located in Incarnation Square, the structure was completed in 2011 as part of a major urban redevelopment project. The area had long hosted a market building that dated back to the 19th century.

Covering about 113,000 square feet and rising roughly 85 feet, the structure is considered the largest wooden structure of its kind in the world. It consists of six giant parasol-shaped forms made from laminated timber, creating a honeycomb-like canopy that shades the square below. The design was inspired by the vaulted ceilings of Seville Cathedral and the spreading branches of the ficus trees in nearby Christ of Burgos Square.

The complex is arranged across four levels. Underground, Level 0 houses the Antiquarium, an archaeological museum displaying Roman houses, mosaics, and artifacts discovered during the excavations. Level 1 is the open-air public plaza and market area, shaded by the wooden canopy above and used for shops, cafés, and public gatherings. Levels 2 and 3 contain elevated walkways, panoramic terraces, and a restaurant.

The highlight is the rooftop walkway that curves across the tops of the parasols, offering sweeping views over Seville’s rooftops, church towers, and historic skyline. The experience is particularly memorable at sunset, when the city’s warm light spreads across the old town.