Setas de Sevilla, also called Metropol Parasol, is a huge wooden structure in Plaza de la Encarnación in Seville’s old quarter. Its six mushroom-like canopies create a striking modern contrast with the surrounding historic buildings. Pay to follow the rooftop walkway for broad views across the city, or stay below to see the structure and spend time in the square. Sunset brings changing light over the rooftops, followed by illumination after dark. The visit also includes an audiovisual presentation about Seville, shown near the end.
A modern landmark in the old quarter
Setas de Sevilla stands over Plaza de la Encarnación, where its broad, curved canopies create a clear contrast with the older buildings nearby. Its formal name is Metropol Parasol, but its Spanish nickname means “the mushrooms,” a reference to the structure’s distinctive silhouette.
German architect Jürgen Mayer designed the project. Construction ran from 2005 to 2011, and the completed structure became a conspicuous addition to Seville’s skyline. Its design has been linked to the vaulted forms of the city’s cathedral and to the large trees in nearby Plaza del Cristo de Burgos.
The scale is easier to grasp from the square than from a photograph. Look up from different points around the plaza to see how the six parasols spread over it. You can admire the architecture without going up to the rooftop walkway.
Walking above Seville
The paid visit takes you to an elevated path that winds across the top of the structure. As you walk, the views shift across Seville’s roofs and skyline. The route gives you several angles on the city, as well as a closer look at the structure’s patterned surfaces.
The walk itself is fairly short. A short audiovisual presentation about Seville is shown near the end of the visit, with screenings every 15 minutes. Factor that into your timing if you want to stay for it.
There are steps along the route, so this visit is not suitable for wheelchair users. Advance ticket booking is recommended. If the weather is hot, umbrellas are provided for visitors.
Choosing when to visit
The rooftop views change with the light, so arriving before sunset lets you see the city in daylight and as evening falls. After dark, the structure is illuminated. The square below also has its own evening atmosphere, with people gathering on the steps.
Sunset is a popular time to go, and the rooftop can be busy. An off-peak visit is a better fit if you want more room to pause or take photographs. If you would rather avoid the paid rooftop visit, the structure is still worth seeing from the plaza, where you can walk beneath the canopies and take in their scale.
Preguntas frecuentes
What does “Setas de Sevilla” mean?
It means “Seville’s mushrooms.” The name refers to the mushroom-like shape of the canopies.
Can you go to the top of Setas de Sevilla?
Yes. A paid visit gives access to an elevated walkway with views across Seville.
How long does a visit take?
The walk takes about 40 minutes, with extra time needed if you stay for the audiovisual presentation.
When is a good time to visit?
Go before sunset to see the changing light, or after dark to see the structure illuminated. Sunset is a popular time and can be busy.
