Nicola Johnson
Google
Plaza de España may be one of Seville’s most iconic sights, but if you’re disabled, don’t expect to be treated as an equal visitor—because you’re not.
I was unable to access any of the upper viewing areas. At one end, there’s a lift that requires staff assistance—but no one came, despite repeated attempts to call for help. My son went upstairs to ask in person, only to be met with a shrug and the excuse that the lift was broken. We then struggled across the wide, exposed concourse—where the ramps were steep, awkward, and poorly designed—to try the other side. Again, we rang the bell twice and were ignored. Eventually, a staff member appeared, only to inform us (again, with a shrug) that my mobility scooter wouldn’t fit in the lift—and that was the end of the conversation. No support, no empathy, no effort.
Most of the plaza’s key features are only accessible via stairs. The lifts are either broken or completely inadequate. Ramps are few and poorly maintained. Staff seem indifferent at best. If you’re disabled, you’re simply not expected—or wanted—to experience the full site. It’s not just inaccessible. It’s exclusionary.
We tried to salvage the visit by going to the gardens, but most of that was off-limits too. A large festival meant closed toilets, no open cafés, and a gigantic stage dominating the centre of the plaza. The famous view? Completely ruined by a giant black structure. Apparently, this goes on for six weeks—something no one warns visitors about in advance.
In short: if you’re disabled, don’t bother. If you’re hoping for clear views of the architecture, check ahead carefully. Plaza de España might look good in photos, but for anyone with mobility issues, the reality is disrespectful and discriminatory.
