Once the capital of Moorish Spain, Córdoba was the most cultivated and magnificent city in 10th C. Europe. It is best known for the Mezquita, the stunning mosque that was begun in 785 and is considered the most splendid Islamic monument in the western world.
Today it is a city of about 330,000 inhabitants, with many artistic and architectural riches. Stroll down the narrow, winding streets of the old Jewish quarter and admire the lovely whitewashed homes with flower-filled private patios and balconies.
Here is a list of some of the things to see during your stay in Córdoba:
- Mezquita-Catedral – built between the 8th and 10th centuries, the mosque consists of 19 naves divided by marble columns holding 2 levels of red and white arches. A cathedral was built inside the mosque in the 16th C. For more information, click here
- Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos – a military fortress built in 1328, where Ferdinand and Isabella held court, received Columbus and launched their conquest of Granada. For more information, click here
- Judería – the labyrinth of streets and little squares conserves the Jewish quarter’s ancient flavor
- Museum of Archaeology – housed in a beautiful Renaissance palace, the museum displays finds from Córdoba’s varied cultural past.
- Torre de la Calahorra – tower located on the far side of the Roman Bridge, it is the oldest defense building in town (built in 1369). For more information, click here
- Calleja de las Flores – a narrow, cobblestone street that is the most photographed in Córdoba. Located close to the north-east corner of the Mezquita, off the Calle Velázquez Bosco.
Book a private tour! You may want to consider booking a private tour with an English-speaking guide. Your personal guide can provide you with information on the city and its historic sites. For more information, click here.
Photo credit: © Christopher Pappas • All rights reserved.
For assistance with your travel plans, including hotel and private tour reservations, click here.