Cordoba is the capital of the province of the same name in southern Spain. The city is located on the slopes of the Sierra Morena on the right bank of the Guadalquivir River.
Cordoba is an old city with a Moorish atmosphere, sometimes called the “Mecca of the West.” Here you’ll see whitewashed houses decorated with flowers, a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, and some of the most beautiful Muslim buildings in Europe.
Local Cuisine
Cordoban cuisine combines traditional Spanish and Eastern cuisines. The most popular dishes include beans and asparagus with scrambled eggs, salmorejo and gazpacho, braised oxtail, lamb casserole, roast suckling pig, flamenquins, and artichokes with pork loin. Local wine and olive oil are the perfect complement to the local cuisine.
Sights of Cordoba
Mezquita
The Mezquita, or Great Mosque, is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and considered one of the most beautiful monuments of Moorish culture in Spain. Construction of the mosque began in the 8th century. In 1523, the mosque was converted into a Christian cathedral. However, the structure retains many of its original elements and structure.
The Mezquita is famous for its “forest” of columns topped with red and white stripes and Arabic-style arches. Through the Puerta del Perdón gate, you enter the picturesque Patio de los Naranjos, home to palm trees and orange trees.
Roman Bridge
The Roman Bridge is one of the city’s symbols. It consists of 16 arches. It was built after Caesar’s victory over Pompey the Great.
Old Jewish Quarter
Juderia is the old Jewish quarter. Be sure to stroll along the narrow streets, past ancient houses with cozy flower-filled courtyards and small squares. Two important Jewish monuments are located here: the Casa de Sefarad museum and a 15th-century Mudejar synagogue.
Alcázar de los Reyes
The Alcázar de los Reyes is the castle of the Christian monarchs. This palace housed the Moorish rulers of Cordoba until the city was conquered by the Castilian kings. The Alcázar is a typical example of Andalusian architecture, consisting of picturesque courtyards and various halls.
Church of San Lorenzo
The Church of San Lorenzo is one of the most beautiful in Cordoba. Like many old churches and cathedrals in Andalusia, it was rebuilt from an ancient mosque. The main entrance has a portico with three arches. Another distinctive feature of the church is its tower, built on the minaret of the former mosque. It is made in the style of the famous Giralda in Seville.
