Two Places to See Flamenco in Seville for Free!
It’s not a Spanish stereotype. Flamenco dancing in Seville is a popular hobby and can be a professional career. So if you want to enjoy an authentic Spanish experience in Seville, read on to find out where to see Flamenco in Seville.
But first, a quick history about flamenco dancing.
Flamenco is influenced by Romani, Moorish and Spanish cultural traditions. Its history spans many centuries.
Flamenco is not just a dance. It is on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. And considered an art form that incorporates poetry, singing, guitar playing, rhythmic hand-clapping, clicking, foot-stomping and dance.
Andalucia in Southern Spain is thought to be the heartland of Flamenco, but areas across Spain including Extremadura and Murcia have strong Flamenco traditions. Flamenco is performed at many opportunities including religious festivals and church ceremonies.
Flamenco on a budget
If you’re travelling to Seville on a budget, or you don’t wish to sit through a performance in one of Seville’s many Flamenco bars and theatres, here’s a good option – a free Flamenco show in Seville.
Naturally, nothing is free and you may need to buy a drink or throw a few euros into a hat, but hunting down a free show is still a good option.
So without further ado, here’s two places to see flamenco in Seville for free.
Plaza de Espana in Seville
If you’re a tourist in Seville, this is sure to be on your sightseeing list. This grand building was created for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. All set within green parkland. You can spend a whole afternoon exploring this place. But you’re here to see a flamenco show. So, here’s how to catch one.
Your best bet to see a free flamenco show in Seville at Plaza de Espana is to visit the place at the weekend. Flamenco dancing is performed by a group of dancers and musicians right in the middle of the semi-circular building. Often on a weekend.
Before I continue, a quick warning: I can’t guarantee you’ll catch a performance, the performers have no affiliation with Plaza de Espana. But as there’s many tourists in the area, naturally it’s a good place for dancers to practice their art and earn a few euros for their time.
Address: Plaza de Espana, Av. Isabel la Católica, Seville.
Opening hours:
Mon – Sun: 8am – 10pm
La Carbonería
This next option is a little hidden and off the normal tourist trail. La Carbonería is a rustic bar where you can watch a flamenco performance for the price of a beer.
Bear in mind that it’s cash only!
Shows are held every day from 8:30pm. Performances last around 15 minutes, on and off until closing.
You can order food here, but it is very basic. Drinks are nice and cheap.
It’s recommended to get to La Carbonería in good time before the show starts as the place is popular and does fill up.
La Carbonería is an authentic experience. And a great place to watch some free flamenco in Seville with a drink before heading out for some tapas.
Address: C. Céspedes, 21, A, 41004 Seville
Opening hours:
Monday – Sunday: 7pm – 1am
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