Things to do in Cordoba

Once the capital of a caliphate that covered most of the Iberian peninsula and parts of North Africa, Cordoba is today a city of seductive beauty. It boasts an impressive mix of architectural styles thanks to Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Catholic influences. Because of this potpourri, the historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Mosque is the city’s top attraction, but its streets and squares that radiate from it are a treasure trove. That’s why we’ve put together the best things to do and see in Cordoba.

Top six things to do in Cordoba

1. Be enchanted by the Mosque of Cordoba

If you can visit only one thing in Cordoba, make it the mosque, popularly known as La Mezquita. Although this monument, which dates from the 8th century between 784 and 987, was originally a mosque, it’s had the status of a cathedral since 1236, when the Christian Castilians conquered the caliphate. Officially known as the mosque-cathedral, it has hundreds of double arches, granite columns and geometric decorations. As soon as you step inside, your eyes are transported to another era and another civilisation. The different architectural styles within one building give a great picture of the history of the city.

After your visit, amble over to the Roman bridge, just a 3-minute walk from the mosque. This 16-arch pedestrian bridge across the River Guadalquivir offers an Insta-perfect view of the right bank. On the city side of the bridge is also an impressive Renaissance gate that used to be part of the city walls.

2. Admire the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and its gardens

On the right bank of the river is another top attraction, the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs. The Catholic Monarchs stayed this fortress during the war against the Emirate of Granada until 1492. During a visit, you can climb one of the four towers and admire the view over the complex. Within the castle, you’ll also find beautiful patios, the Mosaic Hall and Arab baths.

But the highlight of this fortress is its gardens. Across four different levels, you’ll find cypresses, palm trees, lemon and orange trees while the fountains and ponds offer the relief during the sunkissed days of summer.

3. Explore the Jewish Quarter and Synagogue

Also close to the mosque is the former Jewish Quarter, la Juderia. This is a maze of narrow streets that reflects yet another period in history. A few streets you should wander through are Calleja de las Flores, whose walls are decorated with hundreds of flowerpots, and Calleja del Pañuelo, which is the narrowest street in Cordoba. In Spain, there are three surviving synagogues from the period before their expulsion, and one of them is located in this district. This small synagogue from 1313 is richly decorated with the typical Mudejar decorations and is a must-visit. Across the street is the Casa de Sefarad, a museum dedicated to Sephardic Jewish – the name for Iberian Jews – history and culture.

4. Stroll through the world-famous patios

Every year, during the first two weeks of May, the Festival of Cordoba Patios takes place. During this competition, up to 55 patios compete for the first place. They are beautifully decorated with plants and flowerpots that hang on the walls or are placed on the ground. It’s a spectacular riot of colour that you must experience if you’re in the city in early May. Even if you come at a different time, there’s a very good chance that you can visit flower-festooned patios and take some great pics.

5. Visit the excavations of Medina Azahara

A 20-minute drive away from the city are the archaeological excavations of the former royal city of Medina Azahara, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ‘radiant city’ was built under the emirate of Abd al-Rahman III and was the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba. Construction of the city began in 936, but it was destroyed in 1010 during a civil war. Excavations have been going on since its rediscovery in the 20th century and today you can see the ruins of the palace and the mosque, among other relics.

6. Take a day trip to Seville

The Andalusian capital is about an hour-and-a-half drive from Cordoba, making it the ideal destination for an excursion. Seville is full of life, traditions, flamenco music and tasty food. Must-sees are the Royal Alcazar, the cathedral and its Giralda belfry, the Torre del Oro and Plaza de España. This semi-circular square has 52 tile mosaics depicting Spain’s provinces. And you can round off a day of culture with some local tapas. Try a montadito de pringá, chicharrones or ensaladilla.