The Real Alcazar palace is an outstanding monument in the historic heart of Seville, next to the cathedral. Initially it was a Moorish palace with similarities to the Alhambra, built by Moorish artisans for Pedro el Cruel in 1360. It contains many beautiful gardens and private rooms and, as it has been in the past, is the Royal residence for kings visiting Seville; this makes it the oldest active Royal palace in Europe. The Alcazar has been restored and modified during many centuries by different kings and rulers.