The Real Alcazar is the royal palace in Seville. It was founded and extended during the period (c.700-1200) when the Moors ruled this part of Spain. It was further extended following the re-assertion of Spanish rule in the area.
Los Banos de Dona Maria de Padilla (Baths of Lady Maria de Padilla) are named after the wife of King Peter of Castile (Peter the Cruel). She was born c.1334 and died in 1361. Though they are called baths they are in fact rainwater tanks, a reservoir of cool water very necessary in this hot, dry area.The vaulted roof with its Gothic arches suggest that it was constructed during the time of Dona Maria. At the far end, lit by natural light, is what appears to be an artificial grotto made of real or fabricated tufa.
The modern lighting presents the baths in a form that the builders are unlikely to have intended but it undoubtedly makes for an interesting photograph with shadows and shapes accentuated and the pointed arches and vaulting ribs reflected in the water below.
photograph and text © Tony Boughen
Photo Title: Baths of Dona Maria de Padilla, Real Alcazar, Seville
Camera: Olympus E-M10
Mode: Aperture Priority
Focal Length: 18mm (36mm - 35mm equiv.)
F No: f5.6
Shutter Speed: 1/20 sec
ISO:6400
Exposure Compensation: 0EV
