Real Fabrica de Tabacos

This historic monument, Real Fabrica de Tabacos, now stands as the main building of the Seville University. It was built with the intention of making it the cigarette manufacturing hub of the new world; you'll be glad it deflected from its original purpose. Today you can wander aimlessly through the building and the adjoining garden without being prodded by nosy guards. The architecture is reminiscent of the 18-century and there are some wonderful works of European art and sculpture in the vicinity. Bizet's famous opera Carmen was inspired by this landmark, which was once touted to be the largest European industrial center. Entry is free and the food in the cafeteria is cheap.