Feria de Abril 2012 — La Portada

The Feria de Abril in Sevilla starts officially next Tuesday with the alumbrao, the lighting up of the portada (entrance gate) at midnight on Monday. Around 20,000 bulbs are switched on to illuminate the magnificent gateway. The last day is Sunday, so there's plenty of opportunity to visit at the weekend.

This year's design is based on Iglesia de San Salvador, one of Seville's most emblematic churches, recently restored and celebrating its tricentenary. The design also includes elements referring to the 20th anniversary of Expo 92, and the bicentenary of La Pepa, Spain's first constitution drafted in Cadiz in 1812.

If you're lucky enough to be going to the Feria, be sure to take a proper look at the portada. It's easy to walk straight under it without stopping to notice all the details. Much thought goes into this visual symbol of Seville's biggest annual social event.

For those who won't be strolling under the farolillos, sipping rebujito before dancing Sevillanas (I always try but it's not my forte), look out for more photos here next week.