The Giant Trees of Seville

You’re now standing in the Prado de San Sebastián gardens, which means the Meadow of Saint Sebastian. They’re named after the former hermitage that stood here during the 13th century. It’s hard to picture today, but this peaceful little park was once a mass burial site during the devastating plague of 1649, which claimed the lives of 60,000 Sevillians. As you explore Seville, you’ll likely notice some enormous trees, with huge roots around their trunks. In Spanish, they’re known as el árbol de las lianas—the vine tree. Their real name is Ficus macrophylla, native to Australia, and more commonly called the Moreton Bay fig tree. They’re also widely grown in South America, especially in Argentina. There’s your botany detour for the day! The gardens were officially opened in 1997, and are divided into three main sections. Here, you’ll find fountains, ponds, small waterfalls, and play areas for children.