Sitting within the coronary heart of Andalusia, Córdoba is among the most necessary cities with regards to Spanish historical past. House of three cultures, populations of Jews, Muslims, and Christians all coexisted peacefully right here for a whole bunch of years.
Right this moment, Córdoba is a charming metropolis filled with loads of issues to do for any form of traveler.
Museums, archaeological websites, numerous homes of worship, patios, hidden terraces, and loads of cobblestoned streets for getting misplaced in, Córdoba actually has all of it. In the event you’re planning a visit, listed below are just a few of the very best issues to do in Córdoba so as to add to your itinerary!
Temporary Historical past of Córdoba
The big cities of Portugal and Spain get plenty of buzz from vacationers. Vacationers flock to locations like Lisbon and Porto in Portugal, and Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville in Spain. Nevertheless, should you’re curious about exploring a lesser-known vacation spot, Córdobais one in all our prime suggestions. Nestled between Madrid and Seville, Córdoba has a number of the most beautiful Moorish structure in Europe.
Be ready to be wowed as Córdoba is an architectural dream and such a placing departure from the extra conventional Spanish cities. It was one in all my favorites in Spain, and a must-see in my view.
Córdoba was a Roman colony (Corduba) based in 152 BC, and it fell to Muslim invaders in 711 AD. Only a couple hundred years later, it turned the most important metropolis in Europe the place Jews, Christians, and Muslims principally peacefully coexisted. It was captured by Spain within the mid-Thirteenth century after which underwent a interval of decline.
Córdoba’s structure displays a mix of the cultural teams (Roman, Visigoth, Islam, Judaism, and Christian) that occupied the world. It’s identified for its proficient artisans in leather-based, tile, and silver. The Jewish Quarter of Córdoba is now a UNESCO World Heritage Website, recognizing the historic middle for the excellent examples of spiritual structure.
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The way to Get to Córdoba
As talked about, Córdoba is positioned between Madrid and Seville. It’s round a 2-hour journey from Madrid on the high-speed prepare or solely a 40-minute prepare experience from Seville, making it an ideal day journey from both metropolis.
Alternatively, you may take a prepare from Madrid to Córdoba, and finish your night in Seville, which is what I did. I beloved it and wished I had an additional day or two to discover as there’s a lot to see and do.
Prime Issues to Do in Córdoba
There are some magnificent buildings to go to while you’re in Córdoba, together with a wander by the outdated Jewish Quarter. You are able to do this by yourself or discover a native strolling tour. In the event you’re a little bit of a historical past nerd like I’m, undoubtedly take into account a day tour. You possibly can study much more about this wonderful metropolis exploring with an area.
There are a selection of free excursions, and I’ve discovered them to be great because the tour information receives cost solely in ideas. How’s that for motivation?
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1. Marvel on the Mezquita-Catedral
The Nice Mosque of Córdoba, often known as the Mosque-Cathedral or the Mezquita, is the most important mosque on the planet and the best-known constructing in Córdoba. It was in-built 785 AD on the ruins of a church and has been enlarged and embellished because it was initially constructed.
The Mezquita-Catedral is among the most unbelievable examples of Islamic artwork in Spain.
After the Christian conquest, a Renaissance cathedral was erected within the middle so it’s now a mix of Moorish and Christian structure. Its opulence is magnificent, and it’s price spending as a lot time as you may right here. Tour the good corridor with the detailed stone arches, the Patio de Los Naranjos courtyard, and the Bell Tower.
Right this moment, the monument is a spiritual mishmash with striped arches supported by tall pillars (850 of them, to be precise) and gilded altarpieces dotting the halls. There are secrets and techniques hidden within the partitions and varied spiritual motifs round each nook, making it an exhilarating place to go to to study Córdoba’s spiritual previous.
In the event you love historical past, ebook this guided tour full with a skip-the-line ticket -a must-have as that is Córdoba’s hottest attraction!
2. Discover the Jewish Quarter of Córdoba (La Judería)
The doorway to the Jewish Quarter (La Judería) is thru the Almodovar Gate. While you enter, you might be within the historic middle of Córdoba. This neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Website which incorporates most of the historic monuments that appeal to guests to this metropolis.
This was as soon as a vibrant Jewish group from across the Tenth to the fifteenth century till their expulsion from Spain by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. This occurred in 1492, the identical yr that Christopher Columbus made his maiden voyage looking for western path to the Far East.
The Jewish Quarter is now a bustling space with many outlets and eating places, although there are nonetheless reminders of its historical past on the street names like Calle Judios. There are additionally some indicators and statues all through the quarter reflecting the historical past of this space.
It’s a beautiful maze of slim streets and delightful courtyards with numerous shade from the robust southern Spain solar. For an insider have a look at the Jewish Quarter, I extremely advocate taking a strolling tour with an area information who will carry you to hidden streets, markets, and breathtaking websites on this neighborhood.
3. Uncover the Alcázar (Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos)
One other one in all Córdoba’s most well-known monuments is the Alcazar de Los Reyes Cristanos, a glimpse of the town’s Christian previous.
This stunning compound was constructed as a residence for Catholic kings by the order of King Alfonso XI, however was subsequently used because the Holy Workplace headquarters in the course of the Spanish Inquisition, housing prisoners as a substitute of royalty.
The Alcazar was constructed atop the ruins of a Moorish fort after which additional accomplished in a Mudejar model, permitting guests to think about what Cordoba appeared like in the course of the Tenth century.
The gardens of the Alcazar are a real spotlight, spreading all through quite a few courtyards crammed with baths, completely trimmed hedges, and gorgeous flowers. One other unmissable sight is the tower which you’ll be able to climb for panoramic views of Córdoba.
Positioned simply beside the Mezquita, the Alcazar isn’t any stranger to crowds. Guide early and go for a skip-the-line ticket and tour so you may spend extra time exploring and fewer time ready round!
There’s a massive and luxurious outside backyard surrounded by the 4 towers of the Alcázar. The backyard is among the highlights of the constructing. It options massive paths lined with cypress bushes, stunning fountains, ponds, citrus, and palms. It’s exhausting to consider you’re within the middle of a metropolis whereas within the backyard, although you may climb the towers and stroll alongside the ramparts to get pleasure from metropolis views.
The primary corridor is named the “Corridor of Mosaics” for the gorgeous mosaics protecting the partitions. There are additionally royal baths and two stunning courtyards. The constructing is spectacular, although the gardens and the mosaics are the true highlights.
4. Watch a Flamenco Present in an Arab Bathhouse
Flamenco is central to conventional Spanish tradition and catching a present is one thing you merely should do whereas in Spain.
This genuine expertise consists of a flamenco present held in a Tenth-century Arabian bathhouse… ultimate for atmosphere and acoustics! Combine some historical past with tradition, killer music, and stomping ft and right here you might have an impressive present!
The intimate efficiency begins at 10.00pm, however arrive just a little early and sip on a complimentary beverage earlier than the dancers take to the stage. That is actually the most effective issues to do in Córdoba for a very cheap worth, so don’t miss out!
5. Go to the Córdoba Synagogue (Sinagoga de Córdoba)
The Córdoba Synagogue is the one remaining Jewish Synagogue in Andalusia and one of many best-preserved remaining in Spain. On account of its small dimension, it might have initially been a non-public synagogue for a rich household.
Positioned within the coronary heart of the Jewish Quarter, it served as a temple till the Jews have been faraway from Spain in the course of the Spanish Inquisition. The Synagogue was then used as a hospital and a college earlier than it turned a acknowledged nationwide monument within the nineteenth century.
Although the constructing is small, there are some intricate carvings and scrolling work on the partitions. There are additionally Hebrew inscriptions on the inside partitions and delightful scalloped archways. It’s price getting a guided tour should you’re curious about studying extra in regards to the historical past of this synagogue and the Jewish Quarter.
6. Uncover the Roman Temple and Roman Bridge (Puente Romano)
One of many prime issues to do in Córdoba is to stroll throughout the Roman Bridge, particularly for an evening-time stroll. It crosses the Guadalquivir River and leads on to the center of Córdoba’s historic middle, offering postcard-worthy views of the town and luxurious surrounding countryside
The bridge was initially constructed by the Romans within the 1st century however has undergone a number of renovations all through historical past. What stands at this time is tremendously credited to the Moors from their Eighth-century restoration.
Within the Fifties, the stays of a Roman Temple relationship again to the first and 2nd centuries was discovered. 10 marble columns stay and you’ll see them at this time. Constructed across the identical time, the Roman bridge is a well-known Córdoba landmark. It has 17 stone arches and gives nice metropolis views.
On the finish of Puente Romano, you’ll find Calahorra Tower, a big tower constructed throughout Muslim instances.
Enjoyable Reality: For any Recreation of Thrones followers sightseeing in Córdoba, the Roman Bridge was featured within the present as the doorway to Volantis!
7. Eat Your Method Round Córdoba
What else is there to do in Córdoba? Effectively, eat after all!
Positively take a look at a number of the native tapas bars whilst you’re right here. The great ones could not look spectacular from the surface, however you’ll find them filled with locals. Tapas is a practice in Spain, and one I extremely advocate.
Don’t go away with out tasting salmoreja, a standard dish that’s excellent for the recent climate. It’s a chilly tomato soup made from olive oil, garlic, vinegar, bread crumbs, and has bits of serrano ham and eggs sprinkled on prime. It’s like a considerable gazpacho, and originated on this space.
You’ll discover that there are numerous locations to have an impressive meal in Córdoba, however to search out spots frequented by an area crowd, take into account taking an area meals tour.
This three-hour night tour visits a secret terrace with gorgeous views of the town, a palace that was transformed right into a five-star resort, an genuine Roman villa, and a tavern that’s an area staple, with yummy bites to eat and drink alongside the best way.
Alternatively, go for this full-day tour the place you’ll combine eating with sightseeing, accompanied by an area information dedicated to bringing you to the very best hidden meals spots!
It doesn’t matter what you select, you’re certain to finish up with some unmatched meals from the most effective locations to eat on the planet!
8. Admire Calleja de las Flores
Probably the most well-known road in Córdoba is definitely Calleja de las Flores, the Alley of Flowers. Lining the slim little road are dozens of hanging flowerpots and patios, overflowing with colourful fauna and brilliant inexperienced leaves as if out of a fairytale.
You’ll see patios and flowerpots alongside many streets in Córdoba, however they’re undoubtedly most plentiful and picture-perfect alongside Calleja de las Flores. This road is definitely accessible because it’s proper within the coronary heart of Outdated City, so you may’t miss it throughout a time out in town.
Insider Tip: As a result of Calleja de las Flores is so small and it’s on everybody’s Córdoba bucket checklist, head there early within the morning or later within the night to beat the crowds.
9. Benefit from the Patios at Palacio de Viana
Probably the most gorgeous place to absorb Córdoba’s patios is Palacio de Viana, a large compound full with 12 totally different gardens.
Every of the inside patios are intricately designed, full of various plant varieties, unique flowers, and shady bushes, ready to go with the 14th-century residence surrounding the gardens. All the patios have a novel theme, creating a shocking expertise as you wander between every of the totally different ones.
The residence can be open for visits and guided excursions the place you may see vintage collections of furnishings, art work, tapestries, and mosaics, giving some perception into how the wealthiest households of Córdoba lived.
10. Climb to the Prime of Calahorra Tower
Sitting on the southern aspect of the Roman Bridge, you’ll discover Calahorra Tower, the primary defensive level of the town, standing guard over Córdoba.
Torre de la Calahorra has been standing tall because the mid-1300s and has stored numerous enemies and undesirables outdoors of the town.
Right this moment, you’ll discover a museum contained in the tower with displays of Córdoba’s historical past and evolution over time. When you end making your manner by the shows, climb the winding staircase to the highest of the tower for panoramic views out over the Roman Bridge and the remainder of the town.
11. Go to a Museum
Like most Spanish cities, Córdoba is house to some world-class museums, excellent for exploring on a wet day or while you want some refuge from the recent Spanish solar.
To get an impressive image of Córdoba’s previous, head to the Archaeological Museum. It’s crammed with prehistoric and medieval artifacts, rounded out by an impressive assortment of bits and items from Iberian and Roman intervals. The Archaeological Museum additionally encompasses the stays of a Roman theatre which was stumbled upon after which totally excavated, turning it into one of the charming displays in Córdoba.
Artwork lovers, you might need to go to the Museum of Advantageous Arts the place you’ll be met by gorgeous collections of Spanish and Baroque artwork. The works right here span the 14th to twentieth centuries, with works by well-known names comparable to Zubaran, Antonio del Castillo and Valdes Leal lining the partitions. Admission is free for members of the EU, in any other case, it’s €1.50 per particular person – a complete steal!
Lastly, should you’re ever interested in Spain’s deep historical past of bullfighting, head to the Museo Taurino the place you may study the whole lot there’s to learn about this controversial sport.
12. Sip a Espresso at Plaza de la Corredera
After exploring all of Córdoba’s previous, step again into present-day with a go to to Plaza de la Corredera, the beating coronary heart of Córdoba.
That is the place you could find quite a lot of the hustle and bustle within the metropolis, crammed with sprawling patios, countless arcades, and basic Spanish structure all over the place you flip. It’s all the time energetic, making it an ideal place to cool down after an extended day of strolling.
The plaza was crafted within the late 1600s and has been a staple within the metropolis ever since. It’s the place bullfights have been beforehand held, after which it turned the central spot for Córdoba’s markets after that.
Within the current day, Plaza de la Corredera is a superb place to seize a meal or a espresso and watch the every day lifetime of Córdoba swirl round you.
13. Catch a Competition
All year long (particularly within the spring months), Córdoba holds a number of annual festivals, giving guests a style of native life because it’s been for a whole bunch of years.
The most well-known competition in Córdoba is Patios de Córdoba, the place the whole metropolis opens up its gates to the numerous inside courtyards tucked away behind tall partitions. The air is stuffed with recent planted flowers, jasmine and orange blossom and bushes in bloom. This can be a time for residents to compete in some pleasant enjoyable by attempting to outdo their neighbors in courtyard ornament.
In addition to personal residences, many monuments and non secular websites within the metropolis additionally participate in Patios de Córdoba, creating intricate designs with recent flowers.
It’s essentially the most stunning time to go to the town as the whole lot is in full bloom! It additionally offers you the possibility to go to patios and courtyards that you simply by no means would have identified about earlier than.
Patios de Córdoba is widely known yearly in the course of the second week of Could.
Insider Tip: In the event you’re planning your journey round this time, you’ll want to ebook lodging early! Because it’s the most well-liked time to go to Córdoba, costs will likely be steep and locations are going to go quick — so the earlier you may ebook, the higher it will likely be!
Simply after Patios de Córdoba, the town additionally holds Feria de Córdoba, a spring honest that dates again to the Thirteenth century.
This competition is held for every week on the finish of Could and usually takes place on the fairgrounds positioned within the south of the town. On the fairgrounds, there are greater than 100 tents arrange crammed with locations to eat and drink, crowded from mid-day till the wee hours of the morning.
Throughout this time, flamenco and people dancers are in abundance, stomping their ft and swishing their colourful clothes — an ideal alternative to see a extra conventional aspect of Córdoba. There are additionally enjoyable actions across the fairgrounds like rides, horse exhibits, and fireworks!
To see native tradition come to life, plan your journey to Córdoba round these festivals and also you’ll be blown away by the magnificence of all of it!
14. Take a Bike Tour
If you wish to see all of it however don’t know the place to begin, a bike tour of Córdoba is a good way to see a number of the highlights of the town and get your self oriented.
On this two-hour tour, you’ll go to a number of the most well-known locations in Córdoba just like the Mezquita, Jewish quarter, Roman Bridge, and lots of church buildings. You’ll additionally get to see a great deal of tucked-away patios and small courtyards, ultimate for taking a break from biking.
Your native information who accompanies you’ll give some good perception into the very best locations to eat, the place to exit consuming, and fewer touristy areas of the town, ultimate for some unbiased exploration as your time in Córdoba continues.
Taking a motorbike tour is a good way to get your self located in Córdoba and have a glimpse into all that the town has to supply.
Now do you consider me once I say that Córdoba actually has one thing for everybody who visits Spain? There’s a lot to do on this metropolis, and it had such a big effect of Spanish historical past you’d be hardpressed to be bored right here.
Whether or not you’re wandering the halls of a number of the most well-known homes of worship on the planet, catching some solar in a tucked-away patio or gorging your self on tapas, you’ll be thrilled by all of the wonderful issues to do in Córdoba!
Prime Tip: For us, the easiest way to journey and go on these day journeys is by renting a automotive. It simply offers you a lot freedom to discover at your individual tempo. Click on right here to check automotive rental costs. You’ll be shocked at how inexpensive it’s!
One Day Itinerary in Cordoba
- Begin with a go to to the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba. That is the most well-liked attraction within the metropolis so it’s good to go early, if attainable.
- Wander across the Jewish Quarter and have lunch. Then go to the Synagogue.
- Go to the Alcázar of Cordoba and spend a while having fun with the magnificent gardens.
- If time permits, go to the Roman Bridge and cross it to see Calahorra Tower.
In case you have extra time and may do an in a single day in Córdoba, take into account exploring extra of this wonderful metropolis. Córdoba is nice day or in a single day journey from Madrid or Seville. It options an extremely stunning and well-preserved historic middle and a few true architectural masterpieces.
The individuality of this space makes Córdoba an ideal place to go to while you’re in Spain.
Extra content material contributed by Jane Elmets
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