Cordoba is one of the major cities in Andalucia and was once the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba which covered most of Southern Spain. Cordoba was probably one of the most populous cities in the world in its heyday (in the 10th century). And though today it is a much smaller city, Cordoba is still a grand place that boasts an incredible history that is waiting to be explored.
Tip: Cordoba is best visited in May when the weather is not yet too hot, and the locals celebrate various festivals, including the Festival de los Patios (more below) and Cruces de Mayo.
Mezquita-Catedral
The former mosque partly converted into a cathedral was originally built by the Visigoths as a small temple. The Moors later converted the site into a mosque in 711, with Muslim and Christian halves, and the Spaniards then re-built it into the Renaissance-style Cathedral it is today. Fortunately, the impressive prayer hall survived the reconstruction efforts and it is the building’s most notable space. The hall hosts 856 columns and arches with alternating white and red designs. The richly gilded prayer niche is a masterpiece showcasing designs of flowers and plants – truly a scene of the heavens. The overlap of Islamic and Christian motives is a reminder of how tolerant Cordoba has always been.
Tip: Cost-free individual visits are allowed in the early morning. This is the best time to marvel at the prayer hall.
Madinat Al-Zahra
Located in the outskirts of Cordoba in the foothills of the Sierra Morena, the medieval palace-city of Madinat al-Zahra and former capital of Al-Andalus, was once probably one of the grandest cities in the world. While severely damaged over time (only 10% of its true extent is visible today), the ruins are impressive. The remains of the upper basilica hall, one of the best preserved areas in the palace, show that the city was apt for important political decisions.
Tip: A special tourist bus departs from the city centre and drops you at the Madinat al-Zahra, so the ruins can be easily visited without a private car.
Roman bridge
The bridge over the Guadalquivir dates back to the 1st century BC. The current bridge was reconstructed by the Muslims and has sixteen gorgeous arcades. This stunning bridge is now one of the icons of Cordoba and is best enjoyed at sunset.
Patios de Cordoba
The courtyards of Cordoba’s houses are intimate places for family dinners and get-togethers. But in early May (usually over the first two weekends of May), Cordobans open their houses and let visitors enjoy the tasteful gardening skills of the homeowners. Some of the houses also boast ancient architecture such as centuries-old wells. There is a competition for the most beautiful courtyard so standards are generally high.
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