Excuse me Señor, can I have my boat back, please?

Plaza España used to be a place to ride gondolas and feed the ducks. It was only ten years ago when local grandparents could take their kids down to the moat, with yesterday’s old bread, and feed the ducks having a swim in one of Sevilla’s most famous attractions.

The good news is the moat is on its way back. Luckily for Sevillianos, tourists, and expats, the local council is reconstructing Plaza España like before so that we can have a ride on a gondola similar to those in Venice. It’s about time the Sevilliano kids had something else to do in the city apart from ride their bike round Parque Maria Luisa, walk by the river, or sit at home all day playing on the latest console. I think it’s a great idea and I can’t wait to have a go on a gondola. And what happens if Sevilla, Betis, or Spain won another trophy? Surely the city would have to use the new moat as a place to celebrate? Imagine the photos.

The bad news is we don’t know how long it’s going to take. Generations may pass before we get a chance to take our kids down there. Maybe I’ll have to settle with taking my grandkids there instead. Also, will there be problems with the mala leche - scum - of Sevilla? I can imagine the niñatos - chavs - will be up for causing havoc once the boats are up and running.

Here's a picture of what one smart niñato did to a photo down there. From this angle it looks like a duck walking under the arch.

But if you look close enough to can see what it is.

Chewing gum.


I’d recommend popping down to see the exhibition by the square. There are a few old photos of what the plaza looked like when there was water. I’ve taken a few photos so you can have a look, but it’s worth going down there to see the progress, and try to be one of the first on the new gondolas.