Gold Tower

Illustration by Arturo Redondo of the Gold Tower (Torre del Oro) in Seville in 1519.

Beneath the golden reflection of the most famous Albarrana tower in the world, ships about to set sail on expeditions around the world were anchored in the port. They were filled and loaded up with the help of a unique piece of port equipment. A crane, which could only be moved by operators swiveling the wheel at its base. Strenuous work. Water, wine, ship's cookies, oil, fat, salted meats, candles, fish hooks, cheeses, animals, weapons, books, and personal items: everything that was needed by those who were about to take on the daunting challenge of crossing the oceans. The Gold Tower still stands firm as a powerful witness.