Cordoba is a fascinating city in Andalucía, and it's especially popular with tourists because of its rich and diverse history. Cordoba has been a major fortress for the Romans, the Moors, and the Christians, and its monuments and architecture reflect the events and politics of its past.
La Mezquita-Catedral, or Great Mosque-Cathedral, is by far its most famous and most visited monument. Different parts of the building were constructed over hundreds of years as Cordoba was conquered by new civilizations. The Alcázar, another important fortress, is notable for its gardens, and puts on a lights show at night. Another interesting site in the Jewish quarter is the Sinagoga, which is one of three remaining synagogues in Spain built before the Spanish Inquisition.
Number four on our list, the Arab Baths, or Hammam, has tranquil pools surrounded by Moorish architecture, and offers relaxing massages.
Just outside of the city, you'll find the Medina Azaharra, the ruins of an ancient city that one of the caliphs began to construct in the 10th century. This is a particularly beautiful place to visit and have a picnic if the weather's nice.
At our number eight choice, the Palacio de Viana Museo, visitors can see how royalty lives and take a romantic walk through the garden and fourteen decorated patios.
For those more interested in art and religion than architecture, visit the Museo de Bellas Artes and the Museo Diocesano de Córdoba to find collections featuring Medieval and Renaissance religious art.
Calle Cardenal Herrero, 1
Calles Torrijos and Cardenal Herrero s/n (south of the train station, just north of the Roman bridge)
Muslim architecture with a vibrant history...
Calle Caballerizas Reales s/n
Caballerizas Reales
Moorish and Roman architecture...
Calle Judíos 20
Synagogue...
Calle del Corregidor Luis de la Cerda, 51
Arab Baths...
Plaza Jerónimo Páez, 7
Judería
One of the most important archaeological museums in Spain...
Carretera de Palma del Río Km. 5,5
Ruins of an ancient city...
Puente Romano, s/n
Av. de la Confederación, Puente Romano
Tower near La Mezquita...
Plaza de Don Gome 2
Majestic palace...
Plaza del Potro 1
Fine Art Museum...
Calle Torrijos 12
Museum of Religious Art...