Some images of the "Feria de Abril" from that time when it was, still somewhat, a livestock fair.
The current casetas originated from the tent villages erected by cattle traders. They varied in their level of sophistication and richness depending on the owner's status.
It is possible to date the birth of this agricultural fair in April (as well as that of September), to Alfonso X, known as the Wise, who authorized them in 1254, barely six years after the reconquest of the city.
Nevertheless, it was Isabella II who, in 1846, reauthorized this event, which had fallen into oblivion. On April 18, 1847, the first modern fair was celebrated at the Prado San Sebastian with around 19 casetas (tents). It was an immediate success, so much so that relations between the cattle traders and the festive Sevillians quickly deteriorated due to the singing and dancing, which were detrimental to the well-being of the cattle. The following year, additional police reinforcements were needed to manage the event.
Over time, the livestock gave way to the rides of Calle del Infierno. But this event, although primarily festive, still bears traces of its commercial past. In the privacy of the individual booths, even today, contracts are signed over a glass of manzanilla wine and to the sound of a guitar.
