Cordoba, spain
Attractions Guide

Cordoba is a beautiful ancient city of Arab and Roman influences with many amazing sights, most of which are located within the city's historic center.

Among the city's most iconic sights is the UNESCO listed Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, a massive religious structure originally built as a grand mosque by the Muslim rulers of Cordoba in the Middle Ages. Later the site was expanded into a Christian cathedral, however many of the mosques most impressive features were retained, including the the ornate series of Moorish arches that the site is best known for.

On the southern side of the Mosque-Cathedral is the stunning UNESCO listed Roman Bridge of Cordoba, a long bridge with both ancient Roman and medieval Moorish elements which spans the Guadalquivir River. This well-preserved ancient bridge is a striking sight, and provides great views looking back at the Mosque-Cathedral.

On the other side of the bridge is an imposing medieval tower, the Torre de Calahorra, which hosts a small museum as well as great views over the bridge.

Not far from the Mosque-Cathedral is Cordoba's other most popular sight, the 14th century Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs. This incredible castle-like palace is also part of Cordoba's UNESCO world heritage sites and is known for its majestic gardens and fountains you can explore. The Alcazar also hosts outstanding views over the gardens and part of Cordoba's Old Town.

On the western side of the Old Town just north of the Alcazar Palace is an extremely well-preserved section of the historic walls which surround the city that you can walk alongside. You can walk along this scenic path north until reaching the Murallas y Puerta de Almodovar gate, passing by beautiful cascading ponds which run along the walls.

Also in the area near the palace is the small district of San Basilio, which is also bordered by imposing walls. This historic area is known for its lovely flower-covered patios (courtyards), known as the Patios Cordobeses. You'll need a ticket to visit the various patios here, which you can purchase at the Calle Martin de Roa 2 building. You can also see the patios via tour.

Also north of the Mosque-Cathedral you moght consider visiting the city's Museo Arquelogico (Archaeological Museum). This museum hosts an impressive collection of local artifacts, including ancient Roman statues and the ruins of an ancient Roman theatre.

In Centeral Cordoba is a beautiful and elaborate palace, the Palacio de Viana. This palace contains historic interiors as well as many patios decorated with mosaics, fountains, and lush greenery. It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance for this palace if you wish to see the interior, although the patios are the main attraction.

Among Cordoba's famous public squares is 20th century Plaza de las Tendillas, a public square lined with elegant buildings. In this area you'll find many shops, cafes, shops, and restaurants. Nearby is the city's 17th century Plaza de la Corredera, which is lined with arches.

In between the two plazas are the remains of the 2,000 year old Roman Temple, with its stunningly well-preserved columns that you can admire from the street.

On the western outskirts of Cordoba are the ruins of a vast medieval palace complex, the UNESCO listed Medina Azahara.

This Moorish palace complex was built over 1,000 years ago and is referred to as a palace-city because of its immense size and the many structures within the complex. Many impressive structures within the complex still stand, including many Islamic columns and portals, as well as large gardens.

Further west from Cordoba is an imposing 8th century hilltop castle, the Castillo Almodovar del Rio. This fortified Moorish-style castle is very well-preserved and contains medieval furnishings. From the castle you can enjoy sweeping views over the area.

This castle is a very popular tourist destination because of its use as a setting in the famous TV show Game of Thrones. The castle is approximately 40 minutes from Central Cordoba by car or bus.