Cordoba, the Andalusian city in Southern Spain, was once the mighty capital of the Umayyad Caliphate of Al-Andalus. You don’t need to look for things to do in Cordoba. Instead, simply lose yourself in the labyrinth of its streets and plunge into the millennia of history colored by the culture and traditions of its Muslim, Christian and Jewish heritage. Founded by the Romans in the 2nd Century BC, Cordoba was elevated to the status of Colonia Patricia under Emperor Augustus. But, it was under the rule of the Moors, who arrived in the 8th century, that Cordoba blossomed into Europe’s gleaming jewel of wealth, culture and sophistication. At one time, Cordoba alone boasted more libraries than all of medieval Europe combined! While it doesn’t have quite as many today, there are still plenty of other reasons to visit Cordoba.
Undoubtedly Cordoba’s centerpiece is the Unesco World Heritage site, the Mezquita, where Christianity and Islam come together. Caliphs build the monument between the 8th and 9th century as a reminder of the grand mosque in Damascus. Today, it is one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture and one of the top places to visit in Cordoba. A courtyard under the shade of Palm, Cyprus and orange trees provides a lovely introduction to the rolling arches and, in the summer, the soft scent of orange blossom floats through the air.
However, that is not the most curious things about it. Built after the expulsion of the Moors into the Mosque’s main prayer hall by Catholic Monarch’s wishing to assert their religious superiority, is a Cathedral. A rumor has it that King Charles V much regretted approving its construction, saying of the decision, “you have destroyed something unique in the world.”
To the west is Cordoba’s old Jewish quarter, an area characterized by its narrow streets and walls and balconies festooned with the bright colors of potted flowers. The area is also home to one of only three medieval synagogues left in Spain and the plaza Maimonides, which pays tribute to the Jewish philosopher.
Andalusia is also the Flamenco capital of the world. So, if you are looking for things to do in Cordoba, remember that the place is swarming with flamenco bars. When night falls, wind your way down to Tabla Flamenco Cardenal for a show before heading to any of the city’s other lively bars.
