Las Casas de la Juderia is made up of a series of interconnected 15th- and 16th-century homes, carefully restored and reconfigured into individually styled guest rooms furnished with an eclectic collection of antiques. The various areas of the hotel are joined by a maze of narrow "streets," courtyards, patios, and terraces that provide lovely private areas for visitors to congregate. Nooks and crannies contain authentic Spanish tile work from different eras as well as an array of old-school architecture and art. Some of the furniture looks worn, but this lends authenticity to the surroundings. Walking through the hallways, courtyards, and other public areas of Las Casas -- if guests don't get lost in the process -- is a visual feast.

Las Casas de la Juderia is located in the charming, old Santa Cruz section of Seville, only a 10-minute stroll away from the city’s famous cathedral and even closer to Giralda bell tower. The Plaza de España and the Real Maestranza bullring are in the area as well, though it’s a bit of a walk. Just outside the hotel’s front doors are an assortment of restaurants, tapas bars, and shops.

Each room at Las Casas de la Juderia is unique, furnished with antiques and original furniture. Guest rooms fit the restored 15th-century vibe of the courtyards and public areas, but with modern plumbing and the occasional hot tub. Some beds sit high off the ground. All rooms have TVs, but not all are flat-screens, while upper floor spaces have peaked roofs for a cozy feel. Some guests describe rooms as dark, and some rooms have a musty, damp smell with complaints of odors from the plumbing. For open windows, ask for a room that faces the street, not an interior courtyard.

The spa and wellness center at Las Casas de la Juderia, named Las Termas de Hispalis, is spectacularly designed and tiled to feel like an ancient Roman bath. The small rooftop swimming pool and sundeck have stunning panoramic views of Seville's whitewashed roofs. (The pool is open from June to September.) The on-site Emporion restaurant serves Andalusian and traditional Mediterranean cooking. The breakfast buffet, served in the basement Hall of Mirrors, is available for an additional charge. There’s also a piano bar and another lounge with comfortable seating for enjoying afternoon cocktails and conversation. Keep in mind that the hotel’s free Wi-Fi is available only in its public spaces and not guest rooms, a potential inconvenience for business travelers.