Antiquarium

Seville, Spain

Situated in the basement of Metropol Parasol, Antiquarium is a modern, well-presented archaeological museum with sections of ruins visible through glass partitions, and underfoot along walkways.

These Roman and Moorish remains, dating from the first century BC to the 12th century AD, were discovered when the area was being excavated to build a car park in 2003. It was decided to incorporate them into the new Metropol Parasol development, with huge mushroom-shaped shades covering a market, restaurants and concert space.

There are 11 areas of remains: seven houses with mosaic floors, columns and wells; fish salting vats; and various streets. The best is Casa de la Columna (5th century AD), a large house with pillared patio featuring marble pedestals, surrounded by a wonderful mosaic floor – look out for the laurel wreath (used by emperors to symbolise military victory and glory) and diadem (similar meaning, used by athletes), both popular designs in the latter part of the Roman Empire. You can make out where the triclinium (dining room) was, and its smaller, second patio, the Patio de Oceano.

The symbol of the Antiquarium, the kissing birds, can be seen at the centre of a large mosaic which has been reconstructed on the wall of the museum. The other major mosaic is of Medusa, the god with hair of snakes, laid out on the floor. Look out for the elaborate drinking vessel at the corners of the mosaic floor of Casa de Baco (Bacchus’ house, god of wine).

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Details

Founded: 1st century BCE
Category: Museums in Spain

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Ben Mousley (3 months ago)
Great little site that have some initial funding to install, but has been left neglected since. Will take 30 mins to walk around max, but it's interesting and they would love your visit
Salman (5 months ago)
It's an archeological site that they found while digging for a parking lot. You can access the Antiquarium from the stairs under the Setas of Sevilla. It's a small site where you can see ancient vestiges of the roman empire. You also see Islamic houses with names. Lots of interesting tiles, suspended walls, jewellery, etc. They provide you with a free audio book too if you scan a QR code. If you buy general tickets for the Real Alcazar Seville, the tickets to this place are free.
Gillian Anderson (7 months ago)
Situated underneath the Setas de Seville (Giant Mushrooms), go past the ticket office for the mushrooms which are down the stairs, underneath the structure, to the back of that area to find the entrance to the Roman ruins. Found while excavating the area, they are fascinating examples of Roman housing, statues, and mosaic floors. It's not a big area but only cost a couple of euros to get in. It was worth a visit if you were already in the area.
Ali Azarian (7 months ago)
It is a lovely place, I recommend visiting it in the evening and having dinner in one of the restaurants around it.
Debbie G (9 months ago)
Small museum detailing Seville's rich history with well preserved artifacts including mosiacs from the 2nd and 3rd century. Takes around 10 to 20mins to view everything. Entry is included with Royal Alcazar otherwise it is just €2.10. Shame the info boards are not working.
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