Discover the Vía de la Plata Route: A Way through the Heart of Seville
The Silver Route, one of the most emblematic historic routes on the Iberian Peninsula, has a special link with the city of Seville. This ancient Roman road, which connects the north and south of Spain, begins in this vibrant and ancient city, where it is possible to stamp the pilgrims’ passport. Today the route links the route from Seville to Gijón, passing through monumental cities such as Mérida, Salamanca, León and Astorga. Seville, always full of life and passion, has witnessed the passage of travellers since time immemorial, making it a perfect starting point for those who wish to delve into the rich history and culture of the Silver Route.
An ancient legacy
The origin of the Vía de la Plata dates back to the Roman Empire, when trade routes were essential to keep the vast provinces connected. Seville, then known as Hispalis, played a crucial role in this network. Goods, from minerals to agricultural products, travelled the road from the mines of the north to the prosperous cities of the south. Walking along this route is like travelling back in time: every stone seems to whisper stories of Roman legions, merchants and adventurers. The Roman road, visible in some sections near the city, reminds us that Seville has always been a crossroads, a place where cultures and civilisations intertwine.
On the way to the Middle Ages and beyond
As we move forward in history, the Silver Route became consolidated as a route not only for trade, but also for cultural and religious exchange. In the Middle Ages, Seville became a key hub for pilgrims travelling north along this route. The city, then a centre of Muslim culture, offered travellers an incomparable architectural and artistic panorama, a reflection of its richness and diversity. In those times, travelling the Silver Route also meant discovering the infinite landscapes of Andalusia and the majesty of the Giralda, which loomed imposingly on the horizon.
Traditions that are still going strong
The Ruta de la Plata has evolved into a multifaceted route that attracts all types of travellers, from bikers with a passion for the road to pilgrims on foot in search of a spiritual experience. The trail offers a unique blend of natural landscapes, cultural heritage and local traditions. In the case of Seville, the route also crosses the province through towns such as Santiponce, Guillena, Almadén de la Plata, Castilblanco de los Arroyos and Real de la Jara.
The Silver Route Association, in collaboration with the University Pablo de Olavide and the Andalusian Mountaineering Federation, has promoted archaeological and hiking studies to accurately define the historical route and create the profiles of the route.
It is worth noting that in Seville pilgrims can stamp their Silver Route passport at the tourist offices, which makes this city an ideal starting point for those who wish to connect with the essence and history of this emblematic route.
A living path towards an infinite experience
Today, the Vía de la Plata remains a living testimony to history, encapsulating centuries of culture and experiences. Pilgrims who begin their journey in Seville are not only looking for a physical experience, but also a spiritual and cultural one. As you walk through the narrow streets of Seville, you will feel how the past and present intermingle, from the hustle and bustle of the Barrio de Santa Cruz to the serenity of the Parque de María Luisa. Seville, with its streets full of life and colour, its monuments that tell a thousand stories and its people who welcome you with open arms, is much more than a point of departure or arrival: it is the soul of the experience, a beacon for those seeking to connect with the essence of the Silver Route. In this city, every step tells a story, and every corner invites you to live it with passion.
