Short answers, pulled from the story.
The name Seville derives from the ancient Phoenician word Spal, meaning lowland. Archaeological excavations in 1999 found anthropic remains under the north wall of the Real Alcázar dating to the 8th and 7th century BC.
Ferdinand III laid siege on Seville in 1247 with a naval blockade preventing relief of the city. The city surrendered on the 23rd of November 1248 after fifteen months of siege.
Seville was chosen as headquarters of the Casa de Contratación in 1503 because this decision made the port and gateway to the Indies possible despite navigation difficulties up the River Guadalquivir. Since only sailing ships leaving from and returning to the inland port of Seville could engage in trade with the Spanish Americas, merchants needed to be present in the city.
The Giralda tower minaret main shaft is little over 50 meters tall originally built by the Almohads as Great Mosque of Seville. Tower further heightened 16th century addition large Renaissance-style belfry bringing total height around 95 or 96 meters.
In 1992 coinciding with fifth centenary of Discovery of Americas Universal Exposition was held for six months. Local communications network and urban infrastructure improved under 1987 PGOU plan launched by Mayor Manuel del Valle during this period.