Translating as “two sisters”, Dos Hermanas is a historic Andalusian city that lies directly south of Seville. It was founded in the mid-13th century by King Ferdinand III of Castile and was named after the two sisters of military commander Gonzalo Nazareno. Dos Hermanas is renowned for its production of olives and olive oil.
Things to do in Dos Hermanas
Located adjacent to the train station is Parque de la Alqueria, which was created by the Romantic poets Antonia Díaz and Jose Lamarque as a “paradise on Earth”. Grottoes, towers and follies dot the gardens while a Mudejar-style palace watches over the site. In addition to statues of classical philosophers and busts of Spanish explorers, there’s a waterfall and a greenhouse filled with exotic plant species.
Sprawling south-west of Dos Hermanas is Parque Periurbano de La Corchuela, which occupies an old farmstead of the same name. It is planted with holm oaks and wild olive trees that provide habitat for black kites, cuckoos and partridges. Dotting the park’s trails are information panels detailing the local fauna and the riverine vegetation of El Hornillo Stream.
Dos Hermanas is a relaxed base for exploring the sights of Seville, including its magnificent Gothic cathedral and Moorish-Renaissance royal palace. Don’t miss the semi-circular Plaza de España, which is renowned for its busts of national figures and tiled displays showcasing the gastronomy and landmarks of each Spanish province.
Getting around Dos Hermanas
Dos Hermanas is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Seville and around the same distance from Seville Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Trains connect from Seville to the Dos Hermanas railway station and buses travel throughout the city. The centre of Dos Hermanas can easily be explored on foot.