El Alcázar

A very fundamental fact about Spain's history is that for hundreds of years, the Iberian peninsula (where Spain is located today) was occupied by Arabs.  With the Arabs came breathtaking architecture and beautiful buildings.

Introducing: El Alcázar de Sevilla

The structure has a huge, thick castle-like wall that spans for quite a while.  Originally, it was built for heavy defenses against the aggressive people groups that occupied Europe at the time.  There is a mosque as well, which boasts beautiful arches and architecture that can only be described as incredible.  The time, work, and energy put into such a building is just mind-blowing.

Because not only is it big and has pretty arches and supports, but the walls have twisty zig-zag symmetrical stone patterns.  All throughout.  Everywhere.

There are also these tranquil little fountains and pools-- some inside and some out.

And how about the huge golden dome that was used to exemplify the heavens,

With many green and blue tiled walls that have been preserved for years?

Oh, and how could I forget to mention the enormous garden that now exists within the castle walls?

The idea of being in someone else's shoes is completely relevant in this city, especially in these places of history that have stood for hundreds and hundreds of years.  What people of greatness have tread the same tiles that you are standing now?  What nobles and kings have graced its immense halls?

Like the expanse of the universe, or a plane ride over a huge ocean, history has a profound power to make us feel small.