The grand old building that today functions as the University of Seville was originally constructed as one of Europe's largest tobacco factories. In fact, during the time of its building in the early eighteenth century it was the second largest building in the country. At that time Spain was the sole producer of tobacco in Europe. Tobacco used to be such a precious commodity that the security of the structure has been compared to that of a fortress, with moats, sentries and its own prison. The building also plays a huge role in pop culture. The famous Spanish opera Carmen, by Georges Bizet, was set inside this building. The building was turned into a university in the 1950s. It is almost always open for exploration so you can just walk in and check out the historic Renaissance industrial architecture as well as engage in some student watching.

Guided tour times:

• Monday - Friday: 8am - 8:30pm
• Saturday - Sunday: Closed

• Buses 05, 21, A1, A3, A4, A8 stop Menendez Pelayo (Juzgados)
• Tram T1 stop Prado De San Sebastian.
• Subway L1 stop Prado de San Sebastián.
• Buses 05, A2, C5 stop Palos de La Frontera (Puerta Jerez)
• Bus 37 stop Avda.Roma (Palacio de San Telmo)

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