Seville is one of those cities to which you could return a hundred times and discover new things on each trip. Something similar happens to Álvaro, the main character in the film “El autor” (2017) by director Manuel Martín Cuenca, who seeks inspiration among the streets and people of Seville. That’s why we suggest you follow in the footsteps of this writer played by Javier Gutiérrez, who will take you to emblematic places, but will also discover others that you may not know about. 

The Seville of fiction merges with the real Seville in a trip where you will recognise the scenes of many other productions. Based on this idea, the Seville Film Office has designed the best film routes so that you can make the most of your next screen tourism experience. On this occasion, “The author” guides us through his own story among film sets.

Be guided by “The Author”

In this feature film, Álvaro, the character played by Javier Gutiérrez, wants to write a great novel and as the muses resist him, he seeks inspiration in his life journey through a Seville that will fascinate you. Filming takes place in some of the city’s most iconic locations, such as Plaza España, one of the most recognisable locations in this and many other films. This is the square that became famous for becoming the British headquarters in Cairo in “Lawrence of Arabia” (1963) and years later reappeared in “Star Wars II, Attack of the Clones” (2002) as Princess Amidala’s palace on the planet Naboo.

There is no place more iconic than Plaza de España / Seville Tourism

Another great recommendation from “El Autor” is right next to the magnificent cathedral and the Giralda. There you will find the not-so-well-known Plaza del Cabildo, a beautiful spot that many tourists overlook and which is not to be missed. Throughout the film, Álvaro passes through this square several times, which is notable for its characteristic Mozarabic-style arches. 

Seville is not lacking in well-known monuments such as the Torre del Oro, which can be seen in the background in one of the first scenes of the film, when Álvaro’s wife receives the literary prize. However, the obligatory stop on your visit to Seville is the Triana Bridge. Crossing the bridge takes you directly to Triana, one of the city’s most artistic neighbourhoods, the birthplace of bullfighters and dancers. Include it in your tour because, without a doubt, this is where Seville has a special colour.

View of the Giralda from the Plaza del Cabildo / Tourism of Seville

Experience the most authentic Seville

Following in the footsteps of this film, take a stroll along Calle Betis, still in Triana, probably the best-known street in the neighbourhood and a truly Sevillian experience. This walking area next to the Guadalquivir is known for its colourful facades facing the river, which are undoubtedly one of the most popular and special landmarks of the city. From here you have one of the most portrayed views of Seville, as on the other side of the river you can see the Torre del Oro, the Plaza de Toros and Teatro de la Maestranza, the Cathedral and the Giralda and even the towers of the Plaza de España.

Seville is not all about classical or medieval monuments, for a pleasant surprise awaits you in the heart of the city. Las Setas de Sevilla is a wooden construction in the heart of the Plaza de la Encarnación, which stretches all the way to the Plaza Mayor. In “The Author” you can see them in various scenes, as they are the views from the window of the head of the notary’s office. It is also the place from whose top Álvaro walks with Irene. If you follow in his footsteps, you will enjoy unparalleled views of the city. And after this experience, immerse yourself in the life of the city, as under these parasols you will find a traditional market, restaurants and the city’s archaeological museum, the Antiquarium.

The mushrooms are dressed in lights at dusk. A spectacle worthy of the Real / Turismo de Sevilla

Following the trail of “The Author” you enter the most real Seville. It is in the San Bernardo neighbourhood that Álvaro begins to interact with his neighbours, specifically in the Mercado Puerta de la Carne, a building dating back to 1929, although it has been renovated and nowadays you will find it a little more modern. Despite the renovations, it still serves its purpose: it is a municipal market where you can buy fresh food and a chance to take a break from your visit, have a tapas and recharge your batteries.

Seville, the city that never ceases to surprise you, awaits you at any time of the year. Moreover, thanks to Sevilla Film Office you can enjoy the best screen tourism, following the most famous locations of “The Author” and many other productions filmed in a city full of magic. Don’t think twice and let yourself be inspired by the capital of the Guadalquivir.

By Victor Cervelló