Economic Challenges

The 17th century brought challenges for Seville. The Guadalquivir River began to silt up, making navigation more difficult and allowing Cádiz to emerge as a competing Atlantic port. Additionally, the Spanish Empire’s overstretched finances and ongoing European conflicts reduced Seville’s dominance.

The 1649 plague devastated the population, killing a significant portion of the city’s inhabitants. Economic decline and population loss marked a period of relative stagnation for Seville compared to its Golden Age.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

Despite economic hardships, Seville maintained its rich architectural heritage. The Baroque period produced masterpieces like the Plaza de España (built later in the early 20th century but inspired by historic styles) and many churches adorned with art from the Golden Age.

Seville remained a vibrant center of religious festivals, especially the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, which continue to be world-famous for their elaborate floats, traditional costumes, and deep cultural significance.

Modern Seville: Revival and Cultural Renaissance

19th and 20th Century Developments

The 19th century saw modernization efforts, including improvements in infrastructure, industry, and urban expansion. The arrival of the railroad connected Seville more effectively with other parts of Spain.

In 1929, Seville hosted the Ibero-American Exposition, a world’s fair that showcased the city’s cultural and historical richness to a global audience. The event led to new construction and the creation of landmarks like the Plaza de España and the Parque de María Luisa.

The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) affected Seville, but the city was relatively unscathed physically compared to other regions. Post-war decades brought urban growth and tourism development, as Seville embraced its historical assets. shutdown123