Calle Sierpes (Sierpes Street), Seville

"You can get anything you want..." Not in Alice's Restaurant, but in Sierpes Street, Seville. Here is a long winding street dedicated to shopping. The street is lined with shops and cafes. There is no motor traffic, everyone walks. On warm days the local authorities spread awnings above the heads of overheated shoppers.

There is a rumor that the street got its name from a giant serpent that lived under the road. Some say the name is derived from the "serpentine" nature of the street. This street of walkers is the heart of small business in Seville. Since the late middle ages it has been the haunt of blacksmiths, cobblers, and artisans of every kind.

Sierpes Street also hosts events. It is the designated route for Semana Santa between the plaza de la Campana to the Plaza San Francisco. In summer the heat can be intense but with the coming of evening the street comes alive. Street performers, mimes and artists make their appearance. The play resumes, as it has since the 15th century.