Hotel EME Catedral Mercer

The Barcelona-based Mercer chain is known for hotels that thrive on the contrast between historical architecture and modern interiors, and the Hotel EME Catedral Mercer is perhaps the purest example of this tendency. Not only do its sleek, minimalist spaces stand behind a 16th-century façade, but the hotel directly faces Seville’s cathedral and La Giralda, its Moorish bell tower.

From the rooftop pool the view of the cathedral is perhaps at its most extraordinary, though some of the suites have terraces in positions that are scarcely less advantageous. For the most part, however, the hotel is oriented inward, toward a central courtyard, in the classic Andalusian manner, providing a soothing shelter from the light and heat of the day. And the rooms themselves, modern though they are, borrow arabesque patterns for their interior ornamentation.

To these considerable charms the EME Catedral Mercer adds what might be a surprising amount of social life. The rooftop terrace at night becomes a venue for music and cocktails with a view of the city, and is joined by the Corner, the hotel’s lobby bar. Meanwhile Mi Arma serves the distinctive local cuisine with a view of La Giralda, and Al Lado is the Italian option with the open kitchen.