Córdoba

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 1
Welcome to Cordoba!
Cordoba is the eleventh largest city in
Spain and ranks third in Andalucía after
Seville and Malaga.
The city has a population of 328,000
inhabitants and the region reaches
about 850,000 if counting all the
inhabitants living in the province.
Over the years, the city has developed
enormously and modern infrastructures
have been built to adapt Cordoba to the
twenty-first century, including High
Speed Train, bike lanes, modern urban
buses, a new beltway, wide
boulevards…
If we take a look back at the History of
the city, visitors should know that
Cordoba has a unique Historical Legacy.
The city was founded by the Roman
Empire in 169 BC. Shortly after,
Cordoba became one of the most
important metropolises of the Roman
Empire.
In the eighth century Arabs conquered
the Iberian Peninsula and the Caliph
chose Cordoba to be the capital of the
Caliphate of Al-Andalus.
Thanks to this strategic decision,
Cordoba became one of the most
important cities in the World during the
Mid Ages. During that time, Cordoba
experienced a unique moment in its
history: philosophers, theologians,
viziers, Kings etc. filled its streets. Souks (markets), huge palaces and public baths were built to meet the needs of
a capital as important as Cordoba. The old quarter (Judería) of the city was declared a World Heritage Site by
UNESCO in 1994. This certification has helped enormously to preserve part of this amazing historical legacy.
In short, if you decide to visit Cordoba you will enjoy fantastic Roman ruins, ancient Arab remains, the beautiful
old Jewish quarter and gorgeous catholic churches in a wonderful journey to the past.
Whatever you do, wherever you go in Cordoba you will receive a very warm welcome that reveals a tradition of
courtesy, respect and hospitality.
We hope this travel guide, written by local people, will help you to discover the essence of a city that during
thousands of years was one of the most important cities in Europe.

Editor´s note… … ….
Our team is open to new suggestions and
comments from all readers. If you wish to contact
us you can send an email to: info@mundo-
guides.com
Mundo Guides assumes no responsibility for
changes and errors in the information.
Copyright Notice ….
No part of this publication may
be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for
the purpose of review, without written permission
from the publisher andcopyright owner.
Chief Editor
Javier Redondo info@mundo-guides.com
Layout & Design
Javier Redondo
Advertising Director
Tatiana Benidovskaya
advertising@mundo-guides.com
Administration Manager
Ricardo Molina
Arriving
3
Getting Around
4
What to visit
6
Roman Cordoba 7
Islamic Cordoba 9
Christian Cordoba 18
Jewish Cordoba 25
Modern Cordoba 27
Daytrips
33
Gastronomy
40
Where to stay
45
Diputacion Building
Priego de Cordoba
Museum &
Culture 35
Shopping
47
Entertainment
50
Nightlife
51
Useful
Information 54
Basic Words
57
Cordoba Mosque

n recent years Cordoba has developed a remarkable transportation
infrastructure and has become one of the best connected cities in
Andalusia.
All these infrastructure improvements have allowed the city to enter
the twenty-first century, boosting business and tourism.
By Car
Spain has a radial highway design whose epicenter is located in Madrid.
The vast majority of these highways are free unlike other European
countries. Generally highways in Spain are in a very good state of
preservation and are completely safe.
The main access to Cordoba is the A4 Highway, also known as
Andalusia Highway, which connects the center of Spain (Madrid) with
Andalusia.
Another important access is the Highway N-432 which connects the
cities of Badajoz and Granada, via Cordoba.
Time of journey:
Madrid: A4 Highway. Duration of trip: 4 hours.
Seville: A4 Highway. Duration of trip: 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Malaga: N-331 Highway. Duration of trip: 2 hours.
By Bus
Bus is usually the cheapest option compared to the train or plane.
However, the proliferation of low cost airlines is multiplying your
options when traveling: you can travel to Seville by plane and from
there taking a bus to Cordoba.
Generally, bus companies have modern fleets that pass rigorous
security checks. Besides, all buses have air conditioning, ample legroom
and even Wi-Fi access. Thanks to all this, traveling by bus in Spain is a
much more enjoyable experience than a few years ago.
Cordoba Bus Station, built in 1999, is situated in front of the Train
Station, making pretty easy any transfer between train and bus and
vice versa.
Socibus is the main bus company operating in Cordoba and connects
Madrid with Cordoba for a price about €30 (return ticket). If you need
to go directly to the Airport in Madrid, Socibus sells tickets from
Cordoba to Madrid-Barajas Airport.
Other major destinations are: Barcelona, Cadiz, Bilbao, Benidorm,
Malaga, etc.
Main bus companies arriving and departing from Cordoba are:
Carrera (www.autocarescarrera.es) , Alsa (www.alsa.es), Rafael
Ramirez (www.autocaresramirez.es), Socibus (www.socibus.es) ,
Autos Lopez (www.autotransportelopez.com) , Union Bus
(www.unionbus.com) and LineSur (www.linesur.com).
By Plane
Cordoba Airport currently does not accept regular flights, but
refurbishment works are being carried out and it’s expected to open in
the near future. At present, the airport is used just for a few charter
flights, military flights, aerial photography, flying courses and other
aerial works. The nearest international Airports are Seville, Malaga and
Madrid.
By Train
Train is, undoubtedly,
the best and quickest
way to get to the city.
When the Spanish
government decided to
build the High Speed
Train (1992) from Madrid
to Seville via Cordoba,
the city finally entered
the 21st century. Until
then, the only way to get
to Cordoba was by car
after a five hour drive from Madrid.
In the years that followed, the Government invested large amounts of
money into creating one of the best and fastest railway networks in the
world.
Length of journey:
Madrid: 1hour 45 minutes
Seville: 40 minutes
Malaga: 1hour
Barcelona: 4hours 50 minutes
High Speed Trains are called AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) and can
reach more than 300km /h (200 miles hour). These modern trains have
7 passenger wagons and a bar-cafeteria where you can have a drink or
buy a sandwich. When demand is too high, two trains can be linked,
multiplying capacity.
Punctuality is other of the main features of this train. If the train is
delayed more than five minutes for reasons within its control, the
company returns the money to passengers.
Besides AVE, there are also cheaper trains that connect Cordoba with
other important cities such as Cadiz, Huelva or Granada.
Tickets, Schedules and Further Information: www.renfe.es
Cordoba Train Station is one of the most crowded in Andalusia (3
million passengers per year), due in large part to the lack of airport,
and has modern facilities including restaurants, news-stand, gourmet
shops, cafeteria, fashion shops, etc.
If you need to catch a bus to visit some of the wonderful villages
around Cordoba, the Bus Station is just opposite.
I
Almería 360 km. 223 miles
Cádiz 263 km. 163 miles
Granada 201 km. 124,9 miles
Huelva 236 km. 146 miles
Jaén 107 km. 66,5 miles
Málaga 159 km. 98 miles
Sevilla 142 km. 88 miles
Madrid 399 km. 247 miles
Barcelona 878 km. 545 miles
Valencia 520 km. 323 miles
Badajoz 265 km. 164 miles
Ciudad Real 184 km. 114.3 miles
CORDOBA
Cordoba Train Station
Distances from Cordoba
Arriving

Urban Buses
Cordoba has an excellent
bus service: 16 bus lines
that connect the
neighborhoods with
downtown and 4 lines
linking the capital with
small outlying districts.
Bus routes are known by
the number on the front
of the bus.
Buses are running from
6:00 to 23:00.
Unfortunately, during the
night taxi is the only
option to get around.
Ticket are sold directly by
the driver and costs €1.15 (basic fare). Try to pay the exact
amount because drivers do not accept big euro banknotes. This ticket
allows you to change your line within one hour. There are also ten-trip
tickets which cost €6.60. These tickets (“bonobus”) are sold at licensed
tobacco shops and news-stands and must be validated inside the bus.
In some downtown bus stops there are screens that show the
estimated time for the next bus.
(www.aucorsa.es)
Taxis
The city has 500 taxis, running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Taxis are white with sticker advertising on the doors, together with the
official number.
When the customer gets in the car, the taximeter marks €1.48 and the
lowest price to pay (basic fare) for each service is €3.81. Night fare
(from 22:00 to 6:00), Saturdays, Sunday and Bank Holidays the prices
change to €1.84 and €4.75 respectively.
There are many taxi stops around downtown and the old town but you
can also hail from street at the same rate.
Calling a taxi is an option as well, mention to the operator if you want
to pay by credit card as not all taxis have card-reading equipment
(+34957764444). www.radiotaxicordoba.com
If you are planning to have some fun and return late at night, the only
option to come back to your hotel is by taxi as public buses are running
until 23:00.
Generally, taxi drivers do not have a very high level of English, so it
would be convenient to show the address written on a piece of paper.
Additional Charges:
From Train Station €0.53
Airport €7.72
Packets above 60 cm €0.51
Pets €1.06
Cycling
Cordoba has over 50 km of bike lanes and its infrastructure is expected
to grow in the coming years up to 72 km. This makes the city a perfect
place to ride a bike and discover every nook and cranny of Cordoba
avoiding traffic jams.
Despite this great infrastructure, the number of public bicycles to rent
is quite low. Some private companies cover this demand by renting
bikes and offering tours for visitors in several languages.
www.solobici.net
Horse-drawn Carriages
These romantic vehicles enable you to discover spots where motor
vehicle access is restricted. Every day more and more tourists choose
this ecological mean of transport to explore the city and discover
beautiful corners practically inaccessible by car or bus.
The approximate cost is €40 for one hour.
You will find horse-drawn carriages stops near Fortress of Christian
Kings and in front of San Rafael Monument, near Triumphal Arch.
Phone Number: 957 200 522.
CORDOBA
Useful Information
Population: 320.000
Local Time: Central European
Official Language: Spanish
Local Currency: €
Measurement System: Metric System
Religion: Secular State. 70% of the population is
Catholic.
Dailing Code: 0034 957
Electricity Supply: 220V
Emergency Telephone Number: 112
Old Town Police Station: Address Calle Juda Leví s/n
(tel: 957290760).
Taxes: 21% (Shopping) 10% (Hotels& Rest.)
Tourist Offices: Campo Santo de los Mártires s/n. (Tel:
902 201 774) & Plaza de las Tendillas, s/n. (Tel:
957491677).
Official Web: www.turismodecordoba.org/
Cordoba Card: Discounts in sights, museums, public
transport etc. (6 different types to choose from €15 to
€43).
Guided Tours: Cordoba Vision (Tel: 957231734)
Train Station: Address Glorieta de last tres Culturas
(Tel: 957764676).
Central Post Office: Address: Cruz Conde. (Tel:
957479196)
Tips: Not compulsory.
Bank Holidays: January 1
st
, January 6
th
, February 28
th
,
Good Friday , May 1
st
, August 15
th
, September 8
th
,
October 12
th
, October 24
th
, November 1
st
, December
6
th
, December 8
th
, December 25
th
.
Opening Hours: Malls & Departments Stores from
10am to 10pm. Small shops from 10:00 to 13:30/14:00
and from 16:30/17:00 to 21:00 (Closed on Sundays).
Banking Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00/08:30 to
14:00.
Urban Bus
Getting Around
Useful Information

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Wonderful journey into the past
visit to Cordoba means discover one of the world's most
important capitals during the Middle Ages.
The most famous philosophers, doctors, intellectuals,
government employees, military men and theologians lived in the city,
making it one of the most important cultural centers in the world.
During these glory days,
Cordoba was also an
example of coexistence
between different
cultures, races and
religious groups:
Muslims, Jews and
Christians friendly lived
together, respecting
each other and
providing an example
hard to find in the
twenty-first century.
The Mosque of
Cordoba (World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1984) is the most
impressive monument in the city. It was built to compete with cities
such as Baghdad and Constantinople and gives us an idea of the
important role that the city played in the Islamic culture.
Small white streets of the Jewry tell us about their past and the
significance of the Jewish community for the city of the Caliphs. The
Jews represented one of the city's economic engines and held
important posts in the city government.
The Alcazar of the Christian Kings witnessed major decisions which
affected the future of the Spanish Empire: It was here where the
Catholic Kings and Columbus met to raise funds for his expedition that
led to the discovery of America. Within these walls, the Catholic
Monarchs decided to exile millions of Jews living in Spain (1492).
But the glorious past of the city didn’t paralyze the social and economic
progress. Today Cordoba is a modern and cosmopolitan city, open to
the future. The city has experienced an economic boom in recent
decades due to - largely - infrastructure improvements and tourism.
To visit Cordoba, Mundo-Guides has designed for you various routes
following the different cultures that marked the history of the city:
Romans, Muslims, Jews and Christians.
A
CORDOBA
Almodovar Gate
Eighth century BC: The mysterious Tartessian civilization
occupies Andalusia and develops a thriving urban and economic
center that they called "Karduba".
Year 169 BC: The Roman Prefect Claudius Marcellus founded
"Corduba"
Year 45 BC: Julius Caesar besieged the city and massacred the
population during the civil war against Pompey.
Year 27 BC: Octavian Augustus appoints Corduba as "Colonia
Patricia", the highest consideration given to a city in the Roman
Empire.
Year 411: Corduba is sacked by Vandals (barbarians from
Northern Europe) who conquered the city and expelled the
Roman armies.
Year 550: The Byzantine Empire conquers the city.
Year 572: The Vandals reconquer the city.
Year 716: Cordoba becomes a province of the Caliphate of
Damascus.
Year 756: Abderraman I proclaims the Emirate of Cordoba.
Year 929: Abderraman III establishes the Caliphate of Cordoba.
Year 1235: Cordoba is conquered by the Christian army, led by
Fernando III.
Fifteenth Century: Christopher Columbus is in talks with the
Catholic Kings in Cordoba to finance his expedition to America.
Seventeenth Century-Nineteenth Century: Cordoba lives a time
of economic and cultural decline. At the same time droughts
and epidemics ravages the city.
Twentieth Century: The city reawakens after a long slumber.
The economy, trade and tourism flourishes.
Tourist Offices & Visitor Reception Center
Cordoba is one of the most visited Spanish cities. In fact, it´s quite difficult to find a tourist circuit in Spain that does not include Cordoba,
one of most important and beautiful cities during the Middle Ages.
The most numerous tourists in Cordoba are French, Italian, German, Japanese and English. Therefore, you will find information in these
languages more easily than others.
Tourist Offices are situated both in downtown and old town:
Train Station
In front of Fortress of the Christian Kings
Tendillas Square
These Tourist Offices are plenty of useful information for visitors: maps, routes, audio guides, brochures, etc.
Near the Mosque has been recently inaugurated the Visitor Reception Center, a modern building which fortunately is in tune with the
aesthetics of the old town.
During its construction were found numerous archaeological remains from different eras: Romans, Visigoths, Muslims.... Thanks to the great
work of the archaeologists, these archaeological remains have been integrated into the building and can be admired by all visitors.
Since the opening of this modern Visitor Reception Center, tourists can enjoy a personalized attention and modern technological advances
designed to enrich the visit.
If you need an Official Guide: http://www.apitcordoba.com/ (957 486 997). Languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and
Japanese.
Additional information on sights, cultural information, gastronomy at: http://www.turismodecordoba.org
What to Visit
Historical Chronology

ordoba was founded in 169 B.C. by Roman Prefect Claudius
Marcellus who chose this place to build one of the most
important cities of the Empire. The city planned by Claudius
Marcellus had an excellent strategic position: near Guadalquivir River
and located in the most elevated part of the territory.
During the early years, the Romans had to live with indigenous
people, called “Turdetanos” but gradually they began to disappear,
flourishing the Roman Civilization: natives slowly adopted the Roman
way of life and were captivated by the sophisticating Roman culture.
Shortly after, Cordoba was named
Capital of the Province of Hispania
Ulterior and Romans started to
build frantically: water supply was
improved, the city walls were
reinforced and rich mansions were
built. However on January 10, 49
B.C. a Civil War broke out between
Pompey and Caesar. Cordoba
wholeheartedly supported Pompey
but unfortunately Caesar won and
rose to power: few months later
the city suffered terrible reprisals
and many people left Cordoba
(approximately the population of
the city was reduced by 50%).
Over the years, Octavian Augustus
came to power and Cordoba was declared Colonia Patricia, the
highest consideration given to a city after Rome. Since then, Cordoba
reached its “Golden Age” and important changes were carried out:
the city was repopulated, new neighborhoods and roads were built,
new Forums, bridges, temples and circus were constructed, the city
boundaries were extended, the first aqueduct in the city became
operational and Roman aristocrats built outside the city (at the foot
of the mountain) wonderful recreational villas where the wealthy
families spent the summer.
In the third Century the Roman Empire experienced a deep crisis
which was reflected in the city: major works passed away, spaces
were reused, looting and riots occurred and poorer quality building
materials were widely used. The only major building designed in
Cordoba during these years was the Palace of Maximian Herculeo,
which will be discussed later.
Roman Bridge
The Romans were a civilization that was constantly at war and
therefore were considered to be true experts in building civil works,
bridges, city walls, aqueducts...
The place where Romans built the Roman Bridge (first century) was
obviously not chosen at random. Romans chose the lowest and
deepest part of Guadalquivir River because it was easier to construct
for roman engineers.
The bridge, 230 meters long, ends at the Triumphal Arch (twentieth
century) which was one of the main gateways to the Roman city. At
the other end of the Bridge, there is a tower built in Moorish times
(Calahorra Tower) to control ship traffic on the river.
During the Arab period, the bridge was severely damaged and, after
some years, it ceased to be used as it was too dangerous to cross it.
Later, the Christians decided to rebuild the Roman Bridge since it was
the most important access to the city and the only existing bridge in
Cordoba.
A statue of Archangel Rafael, city Patron, was placed on the bridge in
the seventeenth century after a great epidemic wreaked havoc in the
city. During the twentieth century, the bridge underwent several
reconstructions. Despite this, cars and buses continued to use the
bridge further weakening its structure. In addition, it was practically
impossible to walk it.
In 2008 the last reconstruction works were carried out and
fortunately, traffic was suppressed. After this reconstruction, the
bridge regained its original appearance.
Cordoba and its bridges: for nearly two thousand years the Roman
Bridge was the only bridge in the city to cross Guadalquivir River. In
the twentieth century the Local Government approved the
construction of a new bridge: San Rafael Bridge, the second bridge in
Cordoba.
Fortunately, today the city have five more bridges:
Puente de Andalucía, Puente de Miraflores, Puente de la Autovía del
Sur, Puente de Abbas Ibn Firnás, Puente del Arenal.
C
CORDOBA
Roman Cordoba
Lucio Anneo Séneca
(Cordoba, 4 a. C. - Rome, 65)
Roman Bridge
Albolafia
Take a look around the Roman Bridge! From the water
emerges a real nature reserve inhabited by birds (ducks
and herons), endemic plants and even a small community
of otters. It is really surprising and difficult to believe: a
unique enclave, sculpted by Nature´s hand, in the middle
of the old town.
Do not miss the arrival of the herons in the evening: early
in the morning herons go out of town to find food and
return late in the afternoon. Hundreds and hundreds of
herons land softly on the river and trees, creating a
wonderful spectacle.
On the right bank of the river you can see a waterwheel
from Arab times. This mechanism provided water to the
Royal Family who lived in the old Muslim Alcazar.
When the Catholic Kings lived in Cordoba ordered to
remove the waterwheel because the noise disturbed the
Queen when she tried to sleep. Later in the sixteenth
century it was renovated and restored.
Address: Puente Romano s/n
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
“Albolafia”

Bridge Gate / Triumphal Arch
Brigde Gate is, erroneously, called Triumphal Arch although it has
never been used for this purpose.
Since the Roman times, this access was the most important entry
point into the city through the city walls: everyday thousands of
people, carriages with groceries and armies passed through this gate.
An impressive wall, that protected the Roman city of Cordoba against
possible attacks, was attached to the gate, creating a powerful
defense system. Unfortunately, today almost nothing remains of the
Roman Gate and even the wall disappeared.
Over the years, the Christians decided to destroy the old gate and
build a
beautiful new
one to replace
it.
The works were
designed by
Hernan Ruiz,
one of the best
architects in
Spain, although
the Gate
remained
unfinished for
many years due
to lack of funds.
At the top of the Gate there is a plaque commemorating the visit of
King Felipe II (1571) to Cordoba. This King took one of the most
important decisions in the history of Spain: moved the Court from the
Imperial Toledo to Madrid, a small and dusty medieval village.
Finally in the twentieth century, the Local Government decided to
finish the construction of the Memorial Gate and completed the work
of Hernan Ruiz.
Temple of Claudius Marcellus Street
This incredible Temple is located between Claudio Marcelo and
Capitulares Streets, pretty close to Tendillas Square, the most popular
square of the city.
Under the rule of Claudius Augustus (Octavian Augustus, second half
of the first century) Cordoba reached great splendor and wealth,
becoming one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire. At
the same time, Cordoba was named Colonia Patricia and the urban
development boomed in
the city. In this context,
the Temple of Claudius
Marcellus was designed
and built, creating great
expectation in the region.
The Temple was built to
worship the Emperor: best
artists of the time took
part in its construction,
turning the building into
one of the most beautiful
of the Roman Empire.
Practically, the whole
construction was made of
marble which gives us an
idea of the enormous
weight that had to endure the foundations of the Temple.
Lamentably, only certain specific parts remains from the original
building: the steps, the altar, the shafts of the columns, the
foundations and some capitals.
The Roman Circus, one of the favorite distractions of the Roman
people, was located very near. Experts believe that it was built in the
area now occupied by the Church of St. Paul (1241). Unfortunately,
still no archaeological remains have been found to confirm this
theory.
In the Circus were held chariot races and even naval battles shows,
during which the Circus was filled with water.
Herculean Maximian Palace
This amazing Palace was built by Maximian Herculeo in the year 296
and was located outside the city walls (about 600 meters away).
During these years, numerous uprisings and revolts against the
Empire took place in southern Spain and North Africa. In order to
tackle this difficult situation, the Roman Authorities formulated a
plan: the Roman Empire established the “tetrarchy” (decentralization
of power from Rome to peripheral areas such as Cordoba or Split).
For this reason, Maximian decided to take up residence here until the
end of the campaign.
The dimensions of this Palace were great and no expense was spared
in its construction, becoming one of the most impressive palaces of
CORDOBA
Bridge Gate
Roman Temple
Funeral Mausoleums
On Victoria Avenue we can find a great example of Roman
Mausoleum.
Near this central avenue was located one of the main Roman city
gates. From this part of town, a major Roman road
communicated Cordoba with Seville, promoting trade and the
transport of goods.
At the same time, the most important burial areas of the city
were located along this road. Fortunately, some of these
sepulchers have been preserved in relatively good condition and,
thanks to the works of reconstruction and documentation, have
been restored. More precisely, these mausoleums we can
contemplate in the middle of Victory Gardens date from the time
of Emperor Tiberius (first century BC).
Historians suggest that these funeral mausoleums belonged to
important public figures as they were buried near one of the
major access to the city. In particular, experts believe that it could
be an "Ordo Equest" family mausoleum, a title granted to families
that belonged to the ancient Roman Aristocracy.
Usually we can distinguish two parts in a Roman mausoleum:
"ustrinum" where the cremation of the corpse was performed
and an area where the remains of the deceased were deposed.
This burial area, however, did not last too long: in the late second
century a neighborhood emerged around here and mausoleums
were surrounded by houses and buildings. As a consequence, the
Roman road that led to Seville was closed to avoid passing
through this new neighborhood and Local authorities found new
burial areas far away from here.
Historical Note: Emperor Augustus was buried in Rome in a
similar mausoleum. From this moment on, wealthy Roman
people began to use sepulchers of this kind, becoming very
popular throughout the Empire. Maybe you're interested in
knowing that Spain was a very important country for the Roman
Empire to the point that two Spaniards, Trajan and Hadrian,
became roman Emperors.
Address: Calle Claudio Marcelo 29
Price: -
Opening Hours: Closed to tourists
Address: Ronda de Isasa s/n
Price: 1€
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (10:00-15:00) / Saturday,
Sunday and Bank Holidays (11:00-15:00)
Funeral Mausoleums

the Empire: high quality marble and rich mosaics were used in its
construction.
The complex was 400 meters long and 200 meters wide and was
articulated around semicircular underground galleries. Around these
galleries were located different buildings which had many public
functions: for example, they were used as Reception Room where the
Emperor performed official acts, Spa, Hearing Room to receive
important Government officials...
Besides these buildings, several rooms were used as private
residence of Emperor Maximian.
During the Visigoth period, the Palace was renovated and used as
Basilica. Later, in Muslim times, the building was destroyed and a
neighborhood emerged re-using building materials from the Palace.
Unfortunately, the current situation of the Palace is deplorable. The
works carried out in 1991 to build the New Train Station destroyed
much of the remains of the Palace. Despite the great efforts of
historians and archaeologists, nowadays only one third of the Palace
is preserved.
Roman Amphitheater
In the first century a truly astounding Amphitheater was built in
Cordoba, only 7 meters smaller than the Great Colosseum in Rome.
These proportions help us to understand how important Cordoba
was in the Roman Empire.
In the Amphitheater Romans enjoyed gladiatorial combats, animal
fights and fights between gladiators and animals. Gradually, these
bloody combats became one of the favorite entertainments of the
Roman society, similar to football today.
The Amphitheater of Cordoba was discovered in the 1990s, near the
Faculty of Veterinary and archaeologists were greatly surprised by its
enormous size.
The building had 3 floors, 15 to 20 meters high and could seat 30,000
people. The strategic placement of corridors and gates facilitated the
evacuation of the Amphitheater in just a few minutes, much faster
than in some modern football stadiums.
In the fourth century, Constantine banned gladiatorial combats and
the building was abandoned, later deteriorated and finally in ruins.
When the Muslims discovered the remains, they used the materials
to build a neighborhood. This was relatively common at that time.
Currently, the Amphitheater is under reconstruction and in the near
future tourists will be able to visit it.
Roman Theatre
Theatres were very common in the Empire, almost each town had
one.
Generally, the ancient Greek tragedy and the Roman comedies were
the favorite genres among Romans and the theaters were filled
practically every day.
Roman Theaters were semi-circular in plan and consisted of three
parts: on one side were located the stands for spectators (cavea). At
the opposite end was the stage (scaena) and between both of them
the Orchestra for musicians and the choir.
If weather demanded, awnings were placed to protect the public
from the rain or the scorching sun.
Cordoba had one of the largest Theatres of the Empire. It was only 6
meters smaller than the Marcellus Theater in Rome and had a
capacity for 15,000 people.
The Roman Theater (5 B.C.) was discovered on the foundations of the
current Archaeological Museum of Cordoba but unfortunately, it was
only possible to dig up and restore about 30%. The rest was used as
construction materials during the Visigothic and Arab periods just like
others great monuments of the Roman era. Fortunately, the stands
for the public have been preserved and visitors can admire them in a
special room of the Archaeological Museum.
t the end of the seventh century, the Iberian Peninsula was
ruled by the Visigoths. But the situation in Spain was really
complicated: aristocrats groups struggled for power,
epidemics spread rapidly and the demographic crisis was evident.
Muslims, settled in North Africa, took advantage of the occasion and
devised a plan to conquer Spain and later Europe.
In 711, an army, led by Tariq, disembarked in Gibraltar (now a
territory of the United Kingdom) and from there began an expansion
throughout the country. This military campaign was supported by
Jews and some opponents of the Visigothic Kings. Gradually,
Visigothic cities were conquered (Seville, Merida, Cordoba, Malaga,
Linares…) and at the end of 711, the capital of Spain, Toledo, fell into
Muslim hands.
In the years following, the Muslim government consolidated its
situation in Spain and named Seville as the first capital of Al-Andalus.
Andalusia's fate changed dramatically when in 756 Abderraman I
came to Spain and proclaimed the Emirate of Cordoba.
Mosque-Cathedral
The Mosque of Cordoba is, without doubt, one of the most amazing
monuments in Europe and highly appreciated by the entire Muslim
world.
Shortly after the Muslim conquest (711), the territories of southern
Spain were populated with North Africans. Over the years, the
situation was much more stable and in 756 Abderramán I came to
Cordoba to found the Emirate of Cordoba, independent of the
Caliphate of Damascus.
In this context, the construction of the Mosque of Cordoba began in
the year 756. Although they had to resolve some administrative
problems
before:
previously, the
building was
occupied by an
ancient Visigoth
Basilica, the
most important
religious building
in Cordoba.
Abderramán I
expropriated the
land where the
Basilica was and destroyed it in order to
build his long-awaited Mosque.
A
CORDOBA
Address: Avda. Vía Augusta, s/n
Price: Free Entrance
Opening Hours: (10:00-14:00) Mondays & Tuesday Closed
Address: Avenida Medina Azahara, 1 (Faculty of Veterinary)
Price: -
Address: Plaza de Jerónimo Páez, 2 (Archaeological
Museum)
Price: General 1.5€ / EU Citizens Free Admission
Opening Hours: Tuesday (14:30-20:30) Wednesday-
Saturday (09:00-20:30) Sunday (09:00-14:30) Monday
Closed
Islamic Cordoba
Mosque of Cordoba

Construction Stages
The construction of the Mosque can be divided into different phases:
1. Abderramán I
The first phase of
construction consisted of
eleven naves oriented
lengthwise to Guadalquivir
River. The width of these
naves is identical, except
the central nave that leads
to the Mihrab (sacred
wall), and the two lateral
naves. Central nave is
slightly larger than the rest
and lateral naves are a
little bit narrower, but
these slight differences are
noticeable only from a
plane.
Construction materials
were taken from other
buildings of past times
(mainly Romans’ and Visigoths’).
In brief, this phase can be summarized:
• Eleven naves designed with the same width except for central and
lateral naves
• An original system of arcs that revolutionized the world of
architecture. Above the columns were built pillars in order to develop
a system of horseshoe and half a point arches, creating a wonderful
visual effect.
• The decor was done by alternating red (brick) and white (stone)
segments. This system was already used by the Romans in the
Aqueduct of the Miracles in Merida (Spain).
The result is an immense forest of columns, imitating a palm grove.
Naves were closed by the qibla wall, where the Mihrab is located:
this wall is the sacred space where Muslims pray and is usually
oriented toward Mecca.
In 788 the wonderful project of Abderraman I was finally finished.
2. Abderramán II
By this time (833-855), Cordoba was already one of the most
important cities in the world. The population grew exponentially and
city boundaries were
extended.
Faced with this challenge,
the authorities decided to
extend the naves to meet
the religious needs of the
growing city. The length of
the naves was extended to
the South. To achieve this,
Abderraman II had to
destroy the qibla wall and
build a new one. For the
first time ever, new
building materials were
used exclusively for the
Mosque. The decoration
remains the same:
alternating red (brick) and white (stone).The last
amendment made by Abderraman II was to enclose the Orange Tree
Courtyard with saqqifas (small roofs).
3. Abderramán III
Abderrahman III undertook a series of important reforms in the
Orange Tree Courtyard (951-952): old Minaret was destroyed and a
new one 42-meter high was built. This Minaret became a propaganda
symbol of the new Caliphate of Cordoba and was taken as a model in
many Arab cities.
4. Alhaken II
During the tenth century, Cordoba enjoyed the most glorious
moment in its history: great amount of mosques, libraries and
palaces were built in the city and population kept growing steadily.
The major reforms carried out by Alhaken II were undoubtedly the
most beautiful and sumptuous in the history of Cordoba (962-965).
Alhaken II extended again the length of the naves, demolished the
qibla wall and built a new one which still stands today. To improve
lighting, four skylights with beautiful domes were designed.
For the first time ever, the new foliated and cross arches were
introduced. The columns alternate pink and blue trunks.
During these years, the floor of the Mosque consisted of compacted
clay and was covered with precious Eastern carpets.
Finally, the current Mihrab of the Mosque, built by Alhaken II, is
considered a symbol of luxury and magnificence of the Caliphate of
Cordoba.
5. Al-Mansur
Cordoba was growing steadily and the authorities felt compelled to
expand the Great Mosque of Cordoba once again (988-1002).
Fortunately, this enlargement, made in 988, was the last experienced
by the Mosque.
Eight new naves were built, nearly doubling the capacity of the
Mosque (22,000 m2). Sadly, this expansion made the Mihrab loose
its central position.
Mosque Inside
Mihrab of Alhaken II
The Mihrab is a small niche located in the sacred wall (Qibla),
where Muslims pray. Therefore, it is the most important part of a
Mosque. Mihrabs can have different sizes and, given its important
function, usually are richly decorated. In Cordoba, the Mihrab and
Qibla wall are erroneously facing south and not toward Mecca.
The motive of this “mistake” is in question, ranging from
inexperience and error in the calculation to pure political
overtones, hinting to the declaration of political independence of
the Emirate of Cordoba. Another theory considers that the
architects wanted to imitate the Mosque Umayyad of Damascus,
which is also facing south.
The Mihrab in Cordoba is octagonal and is adorned with marble
baseboards and profuse decorative motifs, which reproduce
symbols and allegories of life according to the Sassanid tradition.
On the ceiling there is a scallop of plaster decorated by a
magnificent mosaic donated by the Emperor of Constantinople,
Nicephorus Phocas to Alhaken II. This amazing mosaic was made
with glass powder of gold and blue hues and combines decorative
motifs with verses from the Koran. Something similar can only be
seen in the temple of St. Sophia in Istanbul.
Mosque
CORDOBA
Mihrab of Alhaken II

Sabat
In large Muslim cities it was
common, for security
reasons, to construct an
overpass which connected
directly the residence of
the Caliph with the
Mosque. According to Arab
chroniclers, some Caliphs
or important government
Emirs had been killed on
their way to the Mosque.
Through this overpass they
could cross the street safely
and with discretion.
Unfortunately, this
overpass was destroyed
and experts discuss about
its original location.
According to the most solid theories,
Sabat was located on Torrijos Street, near the monument to San
Rafael.
Lavatories
In the Muslim religion the cleansing ritual or ablution is mandatory
before prayer.
There were different kinds of purification rituals depending on the
type of sin: "ghusl" or major ablution for sex sins and "wudu" for
minor sins and bodily needs (urine, feces, touching a woman without
an intermediary material…).
Mosques, thus, needed a place where these ablutions could be
made: the lavatories, in Arabic "mida'a".
The Lavatories of the Mosque of Cordoba were destroyed and their
remains were forgotten after the Christian conquest. Although
thanks to the abundant Arabic literature, we know that in the
Mosque of Cordoba there were four lavatories, two for men and two
for women.
In 1998 archaeological remains of one of these lavatories were found
inside the Hotel Conquistador, just in front of the Mosque.
The lavatory, almost totally preserved, had an entrance area and two
courtyards for ablutions. Plus, a complex network of hydraulic pipes
was found: this modern system carried water from the river to the
lavatories.
Orange Tree Courtyard
Orange Tree Courtyard, (“Patio de los Naranjos” in Spanish) was built
to play a clearly religious role. Here the faithful Muslims could
perform ablution before praying and go into the Oratory, clean from
all sin.
The Courtyard, 130
meters long and 50
meters large, had to be
broadened several times
over the centuries to
accommodate the
growing number of
Muslims who came to
the Mosque every day.
Slowly, Orange Tree
Courtyard became a
meeting point for Muslim society in
Cordoba. When the Christians conquered the city, the use of the
Courtyard changed completely. Initially it was used as a little square
alongside the Cathedral, as a garden, as a place of recreation and
even as a cemetery.
We are aware of the presence of orange trees in the courtyard since
1512, although we do not know how many trees there were and how
they were distributed.
The Christian Tower, a
former minaret, was
built in 1360. However,
over the years, there
have been many
changes that affected its
original appearance: in
1664, a statue of the
Archangel San Rafael
was placed in the
highest part of the tower. From here, San
Rafael controls the entire city and protects all “cordobeses”.
Finally, you cannot miss the wooden beams on the walls of the
Courtyard: these beams were part of the original ceiling of the
Mosque but unfortunately were stolen decades ago. The Andalusian
Government found the beams in London and they bought them after
a millionaire auction.
The Mosque and the construction of the Cathedral
On June 29
th
, 1236 King Fernando III and his troops conquered
Cordoba and entered into the city. The procession headed to the
Mosque, where they placed the Christian cross and a flag of Castile
and Leon on the minaret. The news of the conquest of Cordoba
shocked the entire European continent, creating great expectation in
the Christian states.
During the first Christian centuries, reforms in the Mosque were
limited to the construction of small chapels (Old Major Chapel and
Royal Chapel, where King Fernando IV and Alfonso XI were buried)
which did not affect the Arab monument too much.
CORDOBA
Supposed Sabat Gate
Abderraman III
(Cordoba 891-961).
Abderraman III was the son of Abd Allah Ibn al-Mundir and
Muzayna (slave of Basque origin).
He was 21 years old when his grandfather appointed him
Governor of Al-Andalus. At that time, the Empire of Al-Andalus
was fragmented and there were many conflicts between local
lords. Abderrahman III unified the different territories and put an
end to the era of internal conflicts and violence: an important
step to secure the future of Cordoba and Andalusia. At the same
time, Abderraman III extended his military campaigns to North
Spain as well as to Africa. In the North his troops fought against
the Christians who were defeated and ended up paying taxes to
Al-Andalus. Once secured the borders in the north, Abderraman
III extended his empire to Africa conquering the African cities of
Tangiers, Ceuta and Melilla.
In 929, Abderraman III proclaimed the Caliphate of Cordoba and
broke the last link with the Caliphate of Baghdad.
Abderraman III had a quick intelligence and benevolent
personality. At the same time, he was keen and courteous.
Despite all this, Abderraman III was famous for his cruelty. Some
stories describe this feature of his character: “he was able to see
with his own eyes the death of his son Abd Allah, who was
executed in the throne room in the presence of all the dignitaries
of the court”. Others stories tell us how he used lions to punish
those sentenced to death.
Such cruelty was not only in battles or corporal punishments, his
brutality to women in the harem was notorious too. One day, in
the gardens of Madinat al-Zahra (palatial city, 8 kilometers from
Cordoba) Abderraman III was drunk and accompanied by one of
his favorite wives. Suddenly, he tried to kiss her and bite her but
she was elusive and did a bad gesture. The Caliph ordered to burn
her face, leaving a melted, grotesque clowny-looking face.
Abderraman III

Over the years, the political situation in Cordoba was much more
stable and clashes between Christians and Arabs slowly disappeared.
This situation made it possible to design major reforms.
The biggest change that the Mosque experienced was carried out in
the sixteenth century: Emperor Carlos V authorized the construction
of a great Christian Cathedral inside the Mosque (1523) at the
initiative of
Bishop Alonso
Manrique.
Hernan Ruiz I
was appointed
chief architect
but shortly
after, he died
and his son,
Hernan Ruiz II,
continued the
work which
lasted until the
seventeenth
century.
The Christian Cathedral resulting is a harmonious blend of different
styles: Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerist and Baroque.
After this major reform (sixteenth century), the old Mosque hardly
underwent any change. Only minor additions and decorative liturgical
accessories were attached.
While visiting the Cathedral, pay special attention to the marble
pulpits and the wonderful altarpiece. The choir stalls of the Cathedral
(eighteenth century) were made with wood from the Americas and
have a great artistic value: Biblical scenes and the Virgin Mary are
depicted here. The two impressive organs were manufactured in Italy
and brought from there to Cordoba.
Finally, you cannot miss the Treasury of the Cathedral which is
located in the Chapel of Santa Teresa: there we can admire the
"custody", which measures over 2.5 meters and weighs 200 kilos. It
symbolizes the construction of the Gothic Cathedral. Moreover,
Cardinal Salazar and Gongora, famous Spanish writer, were buried
here.
Sagrario Chapel: At the corner between the south wall and the east
wall was built this beautiful chapel (1586) which is divided into three
small naves and decorated with beautiful frescoes (Cesare Arbasia)
that give to the chapel the nickname of “The Sistine Chapel of
Andalusia." In addition to the great beauty of this monument, the
Mosque of Cordoba hides interesting exhibits, such as the Museum of
San Vicente and San Clemente Museum: Here visitors can find shafts
and capitals of the ancient Visigothic Basilica that was located here
before the construction of the sacred Mosque, sarcophagi, the
mechanism of the Cathedral Clock Tower (1747), marks of the
stonemason who worked in the construction of the mosque,
Caliphate gravestones or even a well curb.
Main Facades and Access to the Mosque
Postigo de la Leche
Postigo de la Leche is situated
in the western facade of the
building and has direct access
to the Orange Tree Courtyard.
Its original appearance is
completely unknown, as it
was rebuilt by Hernan Ruiz I
(1505-1510). Its design
consists of two parts: the first
part has a small opening and
a lintel, forming a sort of ogee
arch. The access is decorated
with a rosette in the center.
On the top, the scheme is similar but there is a cornice, decorated
with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures.
In the Middle Ages women who could not raise their children came
here and leave them at Postigo de la Leche waiting for someone with
financial resources who could feed them.
There is a legend that says that a herd of pigs passing through the
Postigo de la Leche killed several children who were playing in the
area.
Puerta de los Deanes (Deanes Gate)
There is another entrance in the
western part of the Mosque called
Puerta de los Deanes and gives
access to the Orange Tree
Courtyard. This gate has been rebuilt
several times but fortunately the
Muslim model was preserved:
access bay door and lintel
surrounded by a horseshoe arch and
all topped by a small roof.
On the inside of the gate we can find
the original design without
substantial changes: horseshoe arch
and voussoirs alternating red and
white.
This gate is called Deanes, because
during the ceremony of investiture, the future Dean
entered through this gate. Dean was, in the Catholic Church, the
person who had the power when the Bishop was out of town. At
these times, it was very common for
political reasons that the Bishop was
traveling all around Spain. Therefore,
the Dean was a very important person
in the city.
Puerta San Esteban (Saint Stephen
Gate)
There is one more entry in the western
part of the Mosque and provides
access directly to the Oratory.
This gate was built during the 8
th
Century though in the 9
th
Century
underwent major reconstruction.
Architects followed the Muslim model:
bay door and lintel surrounded by a horseshoe arch
and a small roof on top.
The whole construction was decorated with verses from the Koran
carved during the 9th century.
Puerta del Espiritu
Santo (Holy Spirit Gate)
This gate is located in
the western façade of
the Mosque and it was
built by Alhaken II. Holy
Spirit Gate has direct
access to the Oratory.
This Gate was covered
until the 20
th
century
when reconstruction
works took place. These
reconstruction works
were carried out following the Muslim model. Special
mention should be made of the blind horseshoe arches interlocked
and decorated with geometric shapes surrounded by poly-lobed
arches.
CORDOBA
Christian part of the Mosque
Postigo de la Leche
Deanes Gate
Saint Stephen Gate
Holy Spirit Gate

Postigo de Palacio (Palace Gate)
This gate dates from
the Caliphate of
Alhaken II .
Unfortunately, it was
restored later in
Christian times,
destroying part of the
original model.
This access leads to
the Oratory from the
western part of the
temple. The most
fascinating aspect of
this gate is the merger of Islamic decoration
(horseshoe arches, etc.) and Christian elements (gable, molding)
which confers great dynamism.
Puerta de San Ildefonso (Saint Ildephonsus Gate)
This access was built by
Alhaken II. If you look closely,
you will see that this Gate is
virtually identical to the Holy
Spirit Gate which is also in the
western part of the Mosque.
Poly-lobed arches and
geometric shapes confer
dynamism and movement to
the construction.
Puerta de Santa Catalina (St.
Catherine Gate)
This gate is located in the
eastern part of the Orange Tree
Courtyard and was built on the
orders of Al-Mansur. Later, the Gate was
reformed in Christian times. The architect of this reform was
Cristiano Hernan Ruiz II. Without a doubt, the most interesting parts
are the spandrel of the arches which are decorated with reliefs
extracted from the ancient Muslim minaret built during Abderramán
II times. Doors are made of
wood with silver paneling.
This access has a special
significance since the Middle
Ages, especially during Holy
Week processions (where
Spaniards celebrate Christ’s
resurrection). Nowadays, the
tradition of Holy Week
(“Semana Santa”) is still alive
in Cordoba: thousands of
“Cordobeses” and tourists
flock the streets looking for
their favorite procession.
Puerta del Perdon (Gate of
Forgiveness)
This gate was built in 1377
under the reign of Enrique II whose shield can still be seen above the
entrance arch.
This access has two doors, one outside and the other facing the
Orange Tree Courtyard. The doors are nearly 10 meters high and two
meters wide and were made of pine wood covered by bronze sheets.
The original façade was designed during the 14
th
Century but
unfortunately is not preserved as it underwent several modifications.
The current façade is the result of the reform carried out by
Sebastián Vidal in the mid-seventeenth Century.
Puerta de las Palmas (Las Palmas Gate)
This entrance was designed by
Abderramán III to strengthen
the north facade of the Oratory
which was in danger of collapse.
During the 14
th
century, this
Gate experienced some
improvement works. Later, it
was adorned with Christian
decor elements like the statues
of “The Virgin and the Angel”
(Hernán Ruiz I).
Here were blessed the flags of
the Christian armies before
conquering Granada (1492).
During the 18
th
century,
improvement works were
needed again (Tomas Jerónimo
de Pedrajas).
Legends about the Mosque
The Mosque of Cordoba hides fantastic and romantic legends, some
of which are known by all “cordobeses”. Here are some of the most
popular:
Apparition of the Angel
Aberraman I had a terrible nightmare in which he was drowned in a
sea of blood while he recalled bloody episodes of his life. Suddenly,
an angel appeared and rescued him. The angel said: "such will be the
work I consecrate you, the one true God, that the whole world will
envy it and it will tame the winds and endure the endless days!”.
After this prophecy Abderraman I ordered the construction of the
Mosque.
Fountain of Santa Maria
In the middle of the Orange Tree Courtyard there is a beautiful
fountain with several spouts. According to the tradition, single
women who wanted
to marry had to
drink from a spout,
specifically the
nearest to the olive
tree. This action
would help them
find a husband.
Tunnel between the
Mosque and
Madinat al-Zahra
It is said that during
the time of
Abderrahman III
there was a hidden
tunnel connecting
the Mosque of
Cordoba and
Madinat al-Zahra.
Researchers had
been looking for this
tunnel with keen
interest but no result till date.
This tunnel would have nearly 13 km of distance and would allow the
Caliph pass through town without being seen and without fear of any
possible attack.
We must take into consideration that the safety of the Caliph was a
matter of state therefore, it wouldn´t be strange the construction of
an infrastructure of such magnitude.
CORDOBA
Palace Gate
Saint Ildephonsus Gate
St. Catherine Gate
Las Palmas Gate
Did you know…?
When King Carlos V visited the works of
the Cathedral in the sixteenth century,
he was deeply repentant and said: "I did
not know that the Mosque of Cordoba
was so beautiful. We have destroyed
something unique to build something
that could be built elsewhere".

Bells of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
On July 3 997, there was a battle between the Christian armies and
the Muslim troops which ended in victory for Al-Andalus.
According to the legend, Al-Mansur took as loot the bells of the
Cathedral of Santiago and placed them in the Mosque of Cordoba,
specifically in one of the naves now crowned with Ghotic vaults.
Pay special Attention: If you want to visit the Great Mosque on
Sunday morning you will have to wear shirt with sleeves or
something to cover your shoulders as the Christian mass is held in the
Cathedral. In addition, you can visit only the Christian part of the
Mosque. The rest remains closed to tourists.
If you want to visit the whole monument it’s better to wait until the
afternoon.
Caliphate Bath (Hammam)
Ablution or body cleansing was an essential part of Muslim life. One
can even say that it was a social ritual. During this rite, men chatted
and discussed political, economic and religion issues.
These baths, the most important in the city, were part of the Muslim
Alcazar (Official Residence of the Caliph) which unfortunately was
destroyed at the end of the Caliphate.
This type of baths had a very particular design: cold water room,
warm water room and hot water room. All of them articulated
through a complicated system of pipes and boilers.
At present, medical experts have confirmed that these temperature
changes improved blood circulation.
If you are interested in knowing more about the history of the
Caliphate, within the Baths you can watch an interesting
documentary about the glorious history of the Muslim Cordoba.
Madinat al-Zahra Palace
Madinat al-Zahra was a palatine city located 8 kilometers from
Cordoba. The whole complex was built by Abderrahman III, the Caliph
that changed forever the history of Cordoba thanks to his political
decisions: In 929 Abderrahman III abolished the Emirate and named
Cordoba capital of the Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba, representing a
complete challenge to the Abbasid Caliphate (Baghdad).
During the 10
th
century, the city reached its highest development: the
trade flourished, the population multiplied and philosophers, poets
and musicians came to the city from all around the world.
Diplomatic relations were focused on dialogue with the Christians
and some battles against them too, if the situation so demanded. In
North Africa, the Fatimid Kingdom (enemy of the Caliphate of
Cordoba) controlled several important trade routes to Cordoba,
which created a remarkable tension between the two kingdoms.
In this challenging context, Abderrahman III felt that he must create a
city that represented the glory of his Caliphate, Madinat al-Zahra.
This city, the most important of the West, would be used as
propaganda symbol to his people and his enemies in North Africa
(Fatimid Kingdom).
At the same time, his project would become the most amazing Palace
in the world, even bigger than the Grand Palace Abbaside in
Baghdad. The first stone of Madinat al-Zahra was laid in 936 and was
finished about 975. The abundant Arabic literature describes in detail
the richness of this amazing city where the Caliph lived and
ceremonies, receptions of Christian ambassadors or even military
parades were held. Legend says that Abderraman III named this city
in honor of his wife, "Zahra" which in Arabic means "flower."
Using the slope of the land, architects designed a city structured on
three levels:
A) The Caliph's Palace, located in the highest part of the city.
B) Residences of the Viziers, Government Buildings, the Rich Lounge
of Abderraman III, gardens...
These two levels were protected by a solid wall.
C) The real city: houses of artisans, workshops, city Mosque, soldier
barracks, baths, zoco (market)...
The Archeological Site
North Gate
The North Gate
controlled the entry
and exit of food
supplies and building
materials to and from
Madinat al-Azhara.
On one side of the
Gate there was a
watchtower designed
for the soldiers. At the same time, a
downward path connected, via 4-gates, with the next level of the
city.
The Military House
Here guests waited for the Caliph to be received. We can also see
some important military offices.
On the south side of the building there is a large square that
originally had no gardens,
which were designed in the
twentieth century.
On the western side of the
square were built the
stables. The Eastern part
houses the remains of some
small residences.
The Great Portico
It was the entrance to the
real heart of the city, where
the offices, administrative buildings and luxury
rooms were located. In addition, military parades, ambassador
receptions and solemn
ceremonies were held
regularly here. A small
street ramp connected
the Military House with
the Grand Portico.
The Caliph's guests
walked down this small
street to reach this
awesome Portico
whose mission was to
impress the guests of
the Caliph.
CORDOBA
Address: Calle Cardenal Herrero 1
Prices: General 8€/Reduced 4€/Children Free
Opening Hours: Nov-Feb (10:00-18:00) Mar-Oct (10:00-
19:00) Sundays closed from 10:15 to 14:00
Address: Plaza Campo Santo de los Mártires s/n
Prices: General 2€/Reduced 1€ /Children Free/ Fridays Free
Opening Hours: Nov-Feb (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-19:00) Mar-
Oct (08:30-14:30) Sundays (09:30-14:30) Mondays Closed
Downward Path
The Military House
The Great Portico

The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III
It is, without doubt, the most important part of Madinat al-Zahra. It
can be defined as a
magical place that
perfectly represents the
luxury of this palace. The
Rich Lounge was used by
Abderraman III to hold
his private festivals,
ceremonies, ambassador
receptions, and
banquets, always
surrounded by beautiful
dancers, slaves and
multitude of officers.
The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III can be divided into three naves: in
the central nave was situated the throne of the Caliph. In the side
naves the officers and viziers sat and talked together.
The greatest feature of this lounge is the beautiful decoration, an
example of the splendor of Al-Andalus in the tenth century. The
Caliph wanted to amaze his guests and he spared no expenses in
decorating this wonderful lounge: marble columns and amazing
arches were built and wood ceilings with stars were designed by the
best decorators of the Caliphate.
On the eastern side of
the building were built
several rooms, which
were directly
connected with the
Rich Lounge of
Abderraman III and
paved with white
marble extracted in
the province of
Cordoba. In these
rooms the Caliph spent
part of his private life
when he was not in his
official residence
situated at the top of
the palatine city.
To the south of the
Rich Lounge visitors
can contemplate a
large garden divided
into 4 sections: in the
geometric center of
the garden there was a
small pavilion called
"Central Pavilion"
which was surrounded
by four pools.
Aljama Mosque
On the eastern part of
Madinat al-Zahra,
outside the walls, we
can see the Mosque
of the palatine city.
Like every other
Mosque, this building
had a Courtyard
where Muslims could
make ablutions and
an Oratory where the
faithful prayed. This
mosque was well
oriented toward Mecca unlike the Mosque of Cordoba.
From the Rich Lounge of Abderraman III, the Caliph could go straight
to the mosque through an overpass built by security reasons (Sabat).
Opposite the Mosque, we find several houses belonging to the
people who worked in the Mosque.
Yafar House
The residences of the Senior Officials and Caliph´s collaborators were
located in this part of the city.
Yafar House is a perfect example of a seigniorial house from the 10
th
century. Its large size indicates that Yafar was an important figure in
the political life of Madinat al-Zahra and an official very close to the
Caliph.
The residence was composed of three well defined areas: a private
area to the East, an area for service personnel to the North and a
public basilica-shaped building.
Pool House
Just few meters away from Yafar House visitors can find a small
building. Historians still can’t
say with certainty to who
this house belonged but
according to some experts, it
could be Al Hakam’s house
in times when he was the
crown prince.
In the central part of the
house there is a garden with
a small pool.
There was also a bathroom
which was shared with the
Yafar House.
Worker Houses
There is a group of houses which belonged to soldiers and people
who worked in domestic service.
If we look closely at the archeological remains, we can confirm that
this part of the city was used to cook food for Senior Officials (see
bread oven).
The Royal House
The Official Residence of the Caliph was located in the highest part of
the city: from here he could see the whole Madinat al-Zahra complex
and the almond groves planted around the city. Unfortunately, this
part of the city is being rebuilt
and is closed to the public.
Pottery in Madinat al-Zahra
Finally we highly recommend a
visit to the Museum of
Madinat al-Zahra (page 37)
where visitors can enjoy an
incredible collection of pottery
pieces found in Madinat al-
Zahra. We must not forget that Muslims were true
masters in the production of ceramic and developed a powerful
industry in Al-Andalus.
Madinat al-Zahra Doe
This small piece, valued as one of the masterpieces of Hispano-
Muslim Art, was placed in a fountain of the palatine city.
Expert Historians consider that this piece was not alone but was part
of a set of figures like the Lions Courtyard in Granada.
Three pieces of this set have been found so far: one is exhibited in
the Visitor Museum of Madinat al-Zahra, another is in the
Archaeological Museum in Madrid and the third one was bought by
an Arab sheik (4 million US dollars) and is exhibited in the Museum of
Islamic Art in Qatar.
CORDOBA
The Rich Lounge Building
Cordoba in the tenth C
After the death of Abderraman III,
Cordoba had almost half a million
inhabitants, a huge city for those times,
topped only by Baghdad. In addition, the
city had about 300 public baths and 700
mosques, which is really difficult to
imagine today.
The University of Cordoba was, at that
time, considered as the true center of
the universal wisdom: many
philosophers, theologian, physicians
came to Cordoba to learn from the great
Masters, contributing to enrich the
cultural life of Cordoba.
Madinat al-Zahra
Aljama Mosque Remains
Yafar House
Bread Oven
Cordoba in the tenth
Century

Zoomorphic Figure
According to some experts, this figure may be a giraffe because of its
proportions,
especially for its long
neck. Archaeologists
believe that this
figure was used as a
pitcher to hold some
kind of liquid and
pour it into glasses.
The piece was stolen
from Madinat al-
Zahra and, after
traveling throughout
Europe, was put up
for sale in a famous
Auction House in
United Kingdom
where the
Andalusian
Government
purchased it for
220,000€.
Calahorra Tower
Guadalquivir River was a strategic point and allowed quick and easy
access to the city so Muslims, shortly after conquering Cordoba,
realized that it was essential to protect this part of the city if they
wanted to develop Cordoba.
Originally, Muslims built two defensive and interconnected towers
but in 1369, during
Christian times, the
King Enrique II of
Trastamara built a
third tower.
This defensive system
was really powerful
and included deep
moat, solid walls,
catapults and
numerous arrow loops
through which the
soldiers could fire in case of invasion.
The interior consists of 14 rooms divided into 3 floors.
Over the centuries, the Tower of Calahorra served many different
purposes: from jail to school. Today the building has become the Al-
Andalus Living Museum which offers a wonderful journey into the
past. The different exhibitions on continuous display show the
coexistence in Cordoba of the three major religions: Muslims, Jews
and Christians.
Almodovar Gate
During the Muslim domination Cordoba was surrounded by large
walls which had seven access gates. Almodovar Gate was one of
them. This Gate provided access to the old town, protected the city
from attacks and allowed the authorities to develop effective control
measures over trade. The current Almodovar Gate (the original
Muslim gate was destroyed by effects of time) was built in the 14
th
century, during
Christian times.
If we enter the Old
town through this
Gate, we will find the
popular Judios Street
which leads to the
wonderful Synagogue
(built in 1315). In 1950
a statue of Seneca,
Roman philosopher
born in Cordoba, was
placed near the gate.
Walking down Cairuan Street we can enjoy a nice
stroll along the original city wall built in Muslim times. Not far from
here you can visit another medieval city gate called Puerta de Sevilla.
Andalusí House
Wonderful house built in a Hispanic-Muslim style and located in the
heart of the Jewish Quarter (Juderia), pretty near the Synagogue.
When we cross the door, we are back in the 12
th
century: admire the
beautiful courtyards, the collection of Arabic coins or the replica of
the first paper machine which came to Europe from Asia.
We recommend a visit!
Martos Mill
The Arabs were true experts in hydraulic engineering: wells, bridges,
mills, irrigation system etc. All these technological advances greatly
helped develop agriculture and generated wealth in Andalusia.
One of these wonderful works of engineering was the Martos Mill.
Wheat came to town from other provinces and was transported to
this mill where a complex hydraulic system generated a force
Did you know…?
The great Giralda Tower (Seville), one of
the icons of Andalusia and Spain, was
built, in part, using stones which came
from the palatine city Madinat al-Zahra.
Madinat al-Zahra
How to get Madinat al-Zahra
There is a daily bus service from downtown (Bus stop: Paseo de la
Victoria, Glorieta Cruz Roja) to Madinat al-Zahra.
From September 15
th
to April 30
th
Departures from Cordoba: 09:30, 10:15 / Saturday: 9:30, 10:15
and 15:00.
Return from Madinat al-Zahra: 13:00 and 13:45 / Saturday 13:00,
13:45 and 18:30
From 2
nd
May to September 15
th
Departures from Cordoba: 10:15 and 17:00 / Sunday 09:30 and
10:15
Return from Madinat al-Zahra: 13:45 and 20:30 / Sunday 13:00 and
13:45
Prices: 7€
Children 5 to 12: 3.5€
Address: Puente Romano s/n (Al-Andalus Museum)
Prices: General 4,5€/ Reduced 3€ / Multivision Slideshow
1,2€ (estimated duration: 2 hours)
Opening Hours: From 1
st
Oct to 30
th
Apr (10:00-18:00) / From
1
st
May to 30
th
Sept (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:30)
Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free admission (shuttle
bus from the bus stop to the archaeological site 2,15€)
th
September to 30
th
April (10:00 –
18:30) / From 1
st
May to 15
th
September (10:00-20:30)
Calahorra Tower
CORDOBA
Almodovar Gate
Address: Calle Puerta de Almodóvar
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Address: Calle Judios 12
Prices: 2.5€
Opening Hours: 10:00-19:30

capable of moving five large stones which ground grain into flour.
When the city was conquered by Christian armies, the mill continued
to fulfill its function, so important to “cordobeses”.
Today the building has become the Hydraulic Museum where visitors
can learn how these kinds of mills worked and the different uses they
have.
Muslim Suburbs
Arrabal was the name by which
Muslim neighborhoods were
known. Cordoba had up to 21
Arrabales, exceeding the limits of
the current city.
These neighborhoods were a
maze of narrow streets and old
squares and had their own
mosques, souks, cemeteries and
even a wastewater network which
was really unthinkable in other
parts of Europe where people
lived in conditions far worse.
If you want to visit an original old Arab
neighborhood, you can see the remains of
Saqunda crossing the Roman Bridge, in the Miraflores Park.
This neighborhood was the most populous in Cordoba and housed
the Grand Souk of the city,
where thousands of people
came to buy fabrics, spices,
groceries...
In 818 there was a serious
uprising in Saqunda
because of economic and
social reasons.
Subsequently, other
neighbors joined, leading to
a global uprising difficult to
quell. Al Hakam didn’t
know how to tackle this difficult situation and viciously
crushed the revolt. Immediately thereafter, he sent the inhabitants of
Saqunda outside Cordoba (they had to migrate to other cities such as
Toledo, Fez or Alexandria). Finally the entire neighborhood was razed
and the Caliph prohibited the construction of other neighborhoods in
the area.
Arab Houses
Arab houses tried to follow an introverted style: simple on the
outside and luxurious on the inside.
Houses usually were built with an inner courtyard around which
there were several rooms with different uses.
When people gathered to eat the families placed rugs and cushions
which were put away when they had finished.
Souks
The Souk, Market or Bazaar was one of the most important parts of
an Islamic city; each neighborhood had its own souk or bazaar where
people could buy spices, textiles, meat, olive oil, etc.
Every souk had its own security, called "muhtasib", who was in
charge of guarding the souk and observed whether the standards in
the souk were met.
The Grand Souk of Cordoba was located in Saqunda neighborhood
but after the rebellion of 818, the Souk was moved inside the walls
(“Medina” in Arabic).
In 936 a great fire destroyed the Souk and the nearby streets, causing
numerous deaths.
Finally in the 11
th
century the Souk was relocated in the East part of
the city which was a safer and had better access.
According to Arabic literature, Cordoba had more than 80,000 stalls
throughout the city (including all Souks) which allows us to imagine
the grandeur of the Capital of the Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba.
CORDOBA
Address: Paseo de la Ribera s/n
Prices: General 2€/ Reduced 1.30€
Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 Guided Tours from 09:45
The Mysterious Arquillos Street
Very close from de la Feria Street and Miraflores Bridge is
located one of the most mysterious spots in Cordoba: Arquillos
Street, popularly known as Calle Cabezas (Head Street). The
street in question is scene of a mysterious legend about
Gonzalo Gustioz, Lord of Salas (Burgos). During the Middle
Ages, Spain was engaged in a bloody war between the Muslim
Empire (Al-Andalus) and the Christian kingdoms (North Spain).
The children of Gonzalo Gustioz were expert medieval soldiers,
well-trained to kill Muslims. Turning to the legend in hand,
during the wedding ceremony between Ruy Velazquez
(bother-in-law of Gonzalo Gustioz) and Mrs Lambra, the two
families clashed violently and a cousin of the bride was killed
by Gonzalo Gonzalez (one of the sons of the Lord of Salas).
The couple, full of hatred and thirsty for revenge, decided
cruelly to take revenge. Ruy Velazquez sent Gonzalo Gustioz to
Cordoba with a strange letter written in Arabic, a language
Lord of Salas did not speak. When Gonzalo Gustioz gave the
letter to Al Mansur, leader of Al-Andalus, he was surprised.
The letter said: “Kill the carrier”. Fortunately, Al Mansur was
benevolent and decided to imprison him in a house located on
the current Arquillos Street. Ruy Velazquez, not satisfied with
this, hatched a plan with several Muslim Lords to kill the seven
children of Gonzalo Gustioz. Shortly after, the heads of the
seven infants and their mentor appeared right in front of the
house where Gonzalo Gustioz was imprisoned. Each morning
the Lord of Salas could see from his window the heads of his
beloved children. While he was incarcerated, Gustioz Gonzalo
had sexual intercourse with Al Mansur´s sister and together
gave birth to a child who later would avenge the death of his
half-brothers.
Address: Miraflores Park
Prices: -
Averroes (Cordoba, 1126 -
Marrakech, 1198)
Al-Andalus and Medicine
The most developed science in Al-Andalus was certainly
medicine. The government monitored the activity of
physicians, veterinarians, opticians and drug makers. Medicine
reached a point in its development where even medication
guides were written. These guides defined a doctor as:
"comprehensive, friendly, good, able to endure insults and
adverse criticism. Someone who keeps his hair and fingernails
short, wears clean white clothes and behaves with dignity ".
The Arabs built the first hospitals and psychiatric hospitals
open 24 hours, where the hygienic conditions were excellent,
much better than some current third world hospitals.
An example of the enormous development of medicine in Al-
Andalus is the fact that Al Gafiqi invented the eyeglasses in the
12
th
Century. You can see a bust of Al Gafiqi in front of the
Faculty of Philosophy and Letters.
Old Town
Al-Andalus and Medicine
The Mystery of Arquillos Street

Siege and Conquest of Cordoba
In February 1235, the Christian troops arrived in the vicinity of
Cordoba. King Fernando III decided to settle in the south of the city to
prevent reinforcements from other Muslim cities.
For over 4 months, the Christian forces surrounded and besieged
Cordoba, creating a very difficult
situation for its citizens.
Finally, on the 30
th
of June the
city of Cordoba, without
supplies and without forces,
surrendered to the power of the
Christian army.
The conquest of Cordoba by the
Christian army became a news
event with a global impact.
People in all European
Kingdoms talked about this
heroic deed: Cordoba one of the
world's major cities had been
conquered by the Christians,
something that certainly would
change the history of southern
Europe. Cordoba was the first major Andalusian city conquered by
the Christian troops so the celebration was tremendous: a military
parade crossed the Roman
Bridge. After that, the troops
entered through the Bridge Gate
and went to the Mosque. Once
there, they walked three times
around the perimeter of the
Mosque and blessed it with holy
water. Then, they went to the
Gate of Forgiveness where the
Archbishop opened the Gate and
entered with the sacred cross.
Next day the King arrived in
Cordoba and the celebration
continued few days more.
Once conquered the city,
Christians, Jews and Muslims
lived together more or less peacefully.
Later (1492), Christians Kings issued a decree to expel Jews and
Muslims: if the Christian troops discovered Muslim or Jewish families,
they were expelled immediately from the country. Large areas of
Andalusia were repopulated with Christians from the center and
north Spain.
Fortress of the Christian Kings (Alcazar)
Previously, this area was occupied by the Customs House and the
Roman Governor's Mansion. Later, Muslims built the old Alcazar
which unfortunately was abandoned, looted and destroyed.
The current military building was constructed using remains of the
old Alcazar by order of the King Alfonso XI of Castile in 1328.
Catholic Kings (Fernando II of Aragon and Isabel I of Castile) were
ones of the most illustrious guests in the history of the Alcazar: they
lived here for 8 years overseeing the conquest of Granada from the
Muslims. Thanks to the stay of the Kings in Cordoba, the city became
an important center of power. Shortly after, Columbus negotiated in
this building with The Catholic Kings the funds required for his
expedition that later would lead to the discovery of America (you can
see a statue of The Catholic Kings and Columbus in one of the
gardens of the Alcazar).
After the conquest of Granada, The Catholic Kings left Cordoba and
the building was handed over to the Catholic Church, until 1812.
Since then the Alcazar was used as civil prison until 1931.
Finally, in 1955, the City Council of Cordoba took definitive
possession of the building and nowadays the Alcazar hosts civil
weddings and guitar concerts, becoming one of the most visited
monuments in the city.
The Building
The building has a rectangular shape and is surrounded by a powerful
wall. At the same time, there is a tower on each corner to protect the
fortress against possible attacks. Unfortunately, only two of them
remain: Torre del Homenaje (Tower of Homage) and Torre de los
Leones (Tower of Lions).
The current entrance to the
Royal Fortress is located in the
Tower of Lions, the best
preserved of all the towers.
When you enter through this
gate, you must turn left to
begin the visit.
Mosaic Room
This room, used as a chapel
during Inquisition and later as
a prison chapel, is decorated
with wonderful roman mosaics
found in Corredera Square.
Near the entrance we can see
a roman mosaic of Oceanus,
son of Uranus and Gaia.
The largest mosaic is located in
the left part of the room and is
composed of geometric
shapes and figures, dolphins
and anchors. In the left
entrance there is an
interesting mosaic of a mime
during a performance.
On the right side of the room,
we can see an incomplete
mosaic representing the four
seasons, a theme
tremendously popular in the
Roman world.
After visiting the Mosaic Room we must climb the stairs which
CORDOBA
Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph
Alhaken II is universally considered as the most educated and
devoted Caliph during Al-Andalus times: it is said among
historians and experts and indeed reason, that he gave his life
for his people. From his childhood, the best philosophers and
teachers of Cordoba contributed to the education of Alhaken
II. Some old Arab writings reveal his passion for literature and
science. When he came to power, Alhaken II usually sent
officials to Damascus or Cairo in search of books that he
couldn’t find in Cordoba (his personal library counted 400,000
volumes).
During his mandate, the Caliph founded 25 public schools in
Cordoba to facilitate education of children from disadvantaged
families. At the same time, he funded medication for the poor
and the sick which was truly amazing at that time.
Christian Cordoba
Did you know…?
Christopher Columbus lived an
intense romance in Cordoba. The
illustrious explorer and colonizer
lived in the city for several years
trying to convince the Catholic Kings
to raise funds for his expedition to
America: meetings between
Columbus and the Kings in the
Alcazar were frequent but The
Catholic Kings did not have much
faith in this expedition and refused
to fund it. Columbus ended up living
in deplorable conditions and began
to work selling books for sailors to
survive.
During these years Columbus met
Beatriz Enriquez de Arana, a humble
weaver. Both fell in love and had a
child, Hernando or Fernando Colon.
When Christopher Columbus
returned from America (1493), he
granted a pension to Beatriz and
they both went their separate ways.
However, the fate draws them back
together when Columbus died: the
Spanish explorer left a vast fortune
to his exbeloved.
Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph

lead us to the top of the Tower of Lions. From there visitors can cross
the small corridor to reach the Tower of Homage, unfortunately not
open to the public.
From up here we can enjoy a unique view of old town Cordoba:
admire the Mosque, the narrow and winding streets of the Jewry, the
beautiful gardens of the Alcazar and the Guadalquivir River.
After these romantic views, we must return to the main entrance of
the fortress to
continue our visit.
Then, go down the
stairs to visit the
Royal Baths.
Royal Baths
The Royal Baths were
rebuilt by Alfonso XI
for his wife, who
spent long periods in
Cordoba.
These Royal Baths were
designed in such a way that each room had a different use: rest
room, dressing room, hot water room, boilers, etc.
The water came from the Tower of Homage where was built a cistern
that collected rainwater and supplied water to the different rooms of
the Baths through a complex system of pipes.
Moorish Courtyard
The same staircase leads us now to the “Patio Morisco” (Moorish
Courtyard).
Alfonso XI built this beautiful Courtyard basing on the model of a
Moorish garden. To complete the design of the garden the Caliph
needed the assistance of Muslim artists that brought trees and plants
from Middle East
countries.
The garden was divided
into four parts by a
corridor that crossed
the garden from east to
west and from north to
south. In the middle of
the Courtyard was
placed a beautiful
fountain.
In the eastern part of
the Moorish Courtyard
there is a building constructed in the 20
th
century which was
designed to expand the number of cells for prisoners, remember that
the Alcazar was used as a jail during many years. In the western part
there is a gate that leads to the wonderful gardens of the Alcazar.
Alcazar Gardens
In Arab times there were already few beautiful gardens designed for
the Harem of the Caliph but in tenth century Abderraman III decided
to move his official Residence to Medina al- Zahra, which was a place
much more luxurious than the old Alcazar. This decision led to the
abandonment and
destruction of the
gardens.
A century later, the
Christian Kings built
the new Alcazar and
the gardens
regained its glory
and beauty.
The current gardens
were arranged in
three levels: there
are ditches, canals,
fountains, small ponds with fishes, fruit trees and beautiful gardens
on both sides.
CORDOBA
Panoramic Views from Tower of Homage
Alcazar Walls
Alcazar Gardens
Address: Calle Caballerizas Reales s/n
Prices: General 4.5€ / Reduced 2.25€ / Free Admission:
Tuesday to Friday (08:30-10:30).
th
Sept to 15
th
Jun (08:30-19:30)
Saturday (09:30-16:30) Sunday (09:30-14:30).Monday
closed.
From 16
th
Jun to 15
th
Sept (08:30-14:30) Sunday (09:30-
14:30). Monday closed
After lengthy negotiations, The Catholic Kings, especially Queen
Isabel I, agreed to finance the expedition of Christopher Columbus
(1492) who wanted to find a new route to Asia, which would
encourage trade and increase goods transportation between the
two continents.
In early 1492 Columbus was in Huelva organizing all the
preparations for the expedition, leaving no stone unturned.
Despite the extensive maritime knowledge of Columbus, we
cannot forget the invaluable help of important figures such as
Alonso Pinzon or Pero Vazquez de la Frontera, who participated in
the design of the expedition.
Finally, on August 3 three huge galleons (Santa Maria, La Pinta
and La Niña) left the port of Palos de la Frontera (Huelva) with
more than 90 men on board.
The expedition made a stopover in the Canary Islands where one
of the galleons underwent repairs. Shortly after, the galleons set
sail again and entered definitively into the Atlantic Ocean. After
several months sailing, on October 12, 1492 Rodrigo de Triana, a
sailor born in Seville, shouted "Land ho!”. Columbus and his
expedition had arrived in America. The first island they sighted
was Gunahani (Bahamas). Later, the expedition went to Cuba,
Dominican Republic and finally Haiti.
On December 25, shortly before returning to Spain, one of the
galleons ran aground (Santa Maria) and became useless.
Finally on January 16, 1493, the two remaining galleons returned
to Europe laden with gold, slaves, endemic plants...
During the return trip, the expedition suffered a severe storm and
almost wrecked. As a result of this terrible storm, the galleons lost
their way, separated and followed different routes. Months later,
Columbus arrived at the Port of Lisbon (La Niña) and Martin
Alonso Pinzon (La Pinta) arrived in Bayonne. Unfortunately, Martin
Alonso Pinzon died shortly after returning to the Old Continent.
On April 29, 1493 Columbus published a letter in Barcelona
announcing the discovery of the new continent.
In 1500 Juan de la Cosa designed in Puerto de Santamaria (Cadiz)
the first map of the Americas. This map is preserved in the Naval
Museum of Madrid.
In 1530 Hernando Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, wrote
an extensive biography of his father.
The Christian Kings and Columbus (Alcazar Gardens)
Discovery of America

Royal Stables (Caballerizas Reales)
King Felipe II was a great lover of horses and nature. One of his
obsessions was to get the
perfect horse breed: with this
in mind, he created the Royal
Stables in Cordoba (1570).
For years and years
veterinaries and experts were
crossing different breeds to
create a horse of Arab
descent with great quality
and beauty. This horse was
called "Andalusian horse”.
Currently, the city of Cordoba
is trying to restore the culture
of the horse in this building.
To this end, beautiful
Equestrian events are held
every Wednesday, Friday and
Saturday.
Perhaps the most relevant part of the complex is the
main stable and its beautiful vault.
Along the walls of the building, Cordoba Police has an authorized
area to keep the horses, feed them, and ride them.
San Rafael Archangel Monument
San Rafael Archangel is
one of the most beloved
religious figures in
Cordoba. The city is full of
references to the Saint:
next to the Triumphal
Arch, a statue located in
the Roman Bridge, San
Rafael Bridge, the Football
Stadium (called
Archangel).
The devotion to San Rafael
began in the sixteenth
century, when the city was
hit by a horrible epidemic.
According to testimonies,
San Rafael appeared to a
clergyman and told him he
would save the city.
Shortly after that, the epidemic
disappeared mysteriously.
The most famous statue of San Rafael in Cordoba is located near the
Bridge Gate, within a fenced enclosure. This beautiful monument was
constructed between 1765 and 1781 and funded by the Catholic
Church. During its construction were set free more than 8,000
prisoners to finish the monument.
Currently “cordobeses” celebrate San Rafael’s day on October 24
th
:
families gather and go on a picnic in countryside.
Chapel of San Bartolome
This beautiful spot, unknown to many “Cordobeses”, well worth a
visit. Nowadays, the chapel of San Bartolome is integrated in the
current Faculty of Philosophy and Literature, old Hospital.
At the end of the fourteenth century, the district was Christianized,
and a small parish, dedicated to San Bartolome, was built (1399-
1410).
To visit the chapel, visitors should go through a small whitewashed
courtyard with a huge palm tree, one of the oldest in Cordoba.
In this courtyard there are two doors: one of them provides access to
the Chapel of San Bartolome and the other one leads to a room
closed to tourists. According to experts, this room once served as a
sacristy.
The exterior of the chapel is sober, without much decoration, which
contrasts with the interior of the chapel where decoration is truly
amazing (vaults, plaster, tile, beautiful baseboards etc.). The small
chapel has a rectangular shape, dominated by the presbytery. The
interior decoration is rich and varied:
Palace of the Marquis of Carpio
King Fernando III was fully aware of the need to protect the city walls
and the Guadalquivir River, the main access point for the city. As part
of its plan to defend the city, the King designed this fortification
which, shortly after its construction, was donated to the family
Mendez de Sotomayor.
Gradually, the fortification was becoming a beautiful palace with
romantic gardens and patios worthy of a King. During the first half of
the twentieth century the palace underwent several renovations and
reforms which led to the discovery of remains of an ancient Roman
house in the basement of the building.
Despite being closed to tourists, we can take a look through the
gates.
Square of the Colt (Plaza Del Potro)
Small historic square located near
Guadalquivir River. This place is really
very popular in Cordoba and much
frequented by locals and tourist
groups. In the middle of the square
there is a small fountain with a colt
that gives the square its name.
The square in question was built in
1577 when the neighborhood enjoyed
a frenetic commercial activity: craft
workshops, food stores, taverns, inns
for visitors and dealers ...
“Posada del Potro” (Inn of the Colt) is
located in the eastern part of the
square. This popular inn was
mentioned in “Don Quixote” (Miguel
de Cervantes), one of the mythic works of Spanish
literature. According to chronicles of the
Royal Stables
Address: Calle Caballerizas Reales 1
Prices: Free admission
Opening Hours: 10:30-13:30 & 17:00-21:00 / Sundays 10:00-
12:00 / Tuesday Closed
Address: Calle San Fernando
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Square of the Colt
San Rafel Archangel Monument
Address: Next to the Bridge Gate
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
CORDOBA
Address: Faculty of Philosophy and Literature
Prices: Free admission
th
Sept to 14
th
Jun (10:30-13:30 & 15:30-
18:30) / From 15
th
Jun to 14
th
Sept (10:30-13:30 & 17:30-20:30) /
Sunday afternoon & Monday morning closed

time, “Posada del Potro” was in fact a brothel: this activity was
authorized by the
Government back
then. During the
nineteenth century,
commercial activity
of the neighborhood
was progressively
decreasing and
many businesses
shut down. In this
context, “Posada del
Potro” was
abandoned and later
acquired by the Local Government. Today the
building houses the Flamenco Museum which is a reference point for
all lovers of Flamenco.
In the western part of the square visitors can enjoy the Museum of
Fine Arts and Julio Romero de Torres Museum, where are exhibited
works of the famous painter Julio Romero de Torres, born in Cordoba
in 1874.
Corredera Square
Corredera Square, located in the heart of the city, is probably one of
the most famous icons of Cordoba.
The Square was designed as the typical squares of central Spain: if
you visit Madrid, Salamanca or Burgos you will find places very
similar to this square that reveal the origin of the architect.
During many years, this grandiose Baroque square, unique in
Andalusia, was a
fundamental part of
public life in the city:
Bullfights, religious
events as well as
parades or executions
took place here. Even
there were a hat
factory and a food
market where people
from all over the city
came to buy
groceries.
Currently, it is a perfect place to have a drink in
one of the bars, have a nice stroll or take a look at the many shops.
The square was built in 1683 by architect Antonio Ramos Valdes,
born in Salamanca. Since then, the square has undergone numerous
changes and improvement works that have helped beautify this
typical spot. For much of the twentieth century, this area of Cordoba
was not very
recommended:
prostitutes, drunkards,
swindlers, pusher and
pimps frequented the
square and surrounding
streets. Fortunately,
thanks to the
improvement works
carried out by the City
Council, this square has
become an icon of
Cordoba and Andalusia and one of the most visited places in the city.
In 1959, beautiful Roman mosaics were discovered during routine
works to improve the square. Nowadays, these Mosaics are exhibited
at the Fortress of the Christian Kings (page 18).
Once a year, the City Hall organizes a Medieval Market with actors
dressed up as artisans and soldiers, ecological food stalls,
handicrafts...
Compañia Square
Probably this small square doesn´t appears in many travel guides or
tourist circuits but its romantic essence and humble appearance well
worth a visit.
The square, located just 100 meters from Tendillas Square, is
dominated by four main buildings:
West: El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos Church and Santa
Catalina School.
South: Santa Victoria Church.
East: Old Church of Santo Domingo.
El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos Church
This beautiful church was built in the fifteenth century and boasts a
Inn of the Colt
CORDOBA
Address: Plaza Del Potro
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Corredera Square
Address: Plaza de la Corredera
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
The Orive Palace is a beautiful Renaissance building designed in
1560 by Hernan Ruiz II. Unfortunately, since its inauguration a
mysterious legend haunts the palace for centuries: according to
the stories, this palace, Official Residence of Charles of Ucel and
his daughter, hided a wonderful treasure. A cold night few Jews
knocked on the door of the palace asking for shelter. Charles of
Ucel, benevolent and pious man, hosted them and gave them
food. But these “guests” knew very well that this palace hided lot
of money and gold.
During the night, the Jews lit candles in the room where he
pretended to sleep and began to pray in Hebrew. At that same
moment the earth opened up and the Jews descended. The
daughter of Charles of Ucel, who was hidden, watched as the
“guests” returned with a large amount of gold.
The next day the Jews left the palace and said goodbye to Charles
of Ucel. Shortly after, his daughter decided have a try: she lit
candles, began to pray quietly and suddenly the earth opened up
shaking the room. The young girl and her maid descended but
dramatically earth swallowed them. Fortunately the maid escaped
at the last second and told the father what had happened. The
father started digging around to find his beloved daughter, but it
was useless, the earth had swallowed the girl for all eternity.
Several centuries have passed since then but, according to the
neighbors, they still today hear the screams of a terrified young
woman at night and candles are consumed strangely fast.
True or not, despite being abandoned, the house transmits a
feeling hard to explain with words. Curiously, the current owners
have tried numerous times to sell the building and no one dares to
buy it. Actually the palace is used to hold various cultural events.
Address: Plaza de Orive, 2
Prices: Free Admission
Opening Hours: Tuesday- Friday (08:30-14:30)
Corredera Square
The Legend of the Orive Palace

beautiful Baroque altarpiece
designed by Teodosio Sanchez.
Santa Catalina School (Real
Escuelas Pias)
Santa Catalina School (1604) was
founded and promoted by Juan
Fernandez de Cordoba (local
religious authority) for the Jesuit
Order. The Marquise Catalina
Fernandez de Cordoba
contributed large amounts of
money to carry out the project.
The current building we see
today was built in 1701 as
unfortunately, the old building
had to be demolished by the
poor state of preservation.
Inside the School we can see a
wonderful baroque staircase.
Santa Victoria Church
This church was built in the eighteenth century in a neoclassical style.
Especial mention should be made of
the magnificent dome and the
exceptional staircase made of black
and red marble. Take a look!
Old Church of Santo Domingo
(Provincial Historical Archive)
Currently this building houses the
Provincial Historical Archive but
formerly the Church of Santo
Domingo was located here. This old
church was built shortly after that
Fernando III conquered the city
(1236), so it is one of the oldest
churches in Cordoba.
Don´t miss the Chapel of the
Conception and the bell tower, really
beautiful.
Finally the square is dominated by a
statue of the Archangel San Rafael which was
placed the on top of four marble columns.
Christ of the
Lanterns (Cristo
de los Faroles)
In Capuchinos Square we
can visit a place of devotion
and pilmigrage for all
“cordobeses”. The best
moment to visit Capuchinos
Square is, undoubtedly,
during Holy Week when
many people come here to
pray, place candles and sing
songs in order to worship
Christ and prove his
devotion. Christ of the
Lanterns was built in 1794
by Juan Navarro Leon.
On the contrary, the surrounding gates were added in the twentieth
century.
Capuchinos Monastery & San Jacinto
Hospital - De los Dolores Church
During the seventeenth and eighteenth century were built two
humble buildings which beautify this romantic and melancholic
square (Capuchinos Square),
located in the city center.
Capuchinos Monastery
In 1633 this religious building
was built over an ancient
neighborhood. The monks of
the Capuchin Order (founded
by St. Francis of Assisi) lived
here and cultivated vegetables
and fruits that later they used
as food. In addition, monks
received alms from citizens that
help to maintain the building.
In the mid-nineteenth century
the building was expropriated
by the Government and large
parts of the monastery were
demolished. Fortunately, the
church of the monastery has been preserved.
San Jacinto Hospital – De los
Dolores Church
In the year 1710 the old
Hospital of San Jacinto was built
(take a look to the right of the
Christ of the Lanterns).This
building hides a tragic story:
terminally ill patients were
moved here where they waited
for death in the gloomy rooms.
Shortly after (1728), De los
Dolores Church was built and
integrated within the Hospital
complex. As we can see the two
buildings had different
entrances.
Santa Marina Church
When Fernando III defeated the Muslims and conquered the city
(1235), he decided to build a number of churches which are called
“Fernandinas Churches”. Santa Marina was one of them. This
beautiful church (thirteenth century) is considered the oldest church
in the city and one of the oldest in Andalusia.
This wonderful religious building is located in Santa Marina district,
Old Church of Santo
Domingo
Santa Victoria Church
Christ of the Lanterns
Address: Plaza de la Compañia
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Address: Plaza de Capuchinos
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Capuchinos Monastery
San Jacinto Hospital - De los
Dolores Church
Address: Plaza de Capuchinos
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
CORDOBA

popularly known as the
“Toreros” (bullfighters)
district: a lot of
bullfighters were born in
Cordoba and chose this
old church to marry.
In fact, in front of the
church, there is a small
square (Conde Priego
Square) with a beautiful
sculpture in memory of
Manolete (1917-1947),
one of the most famous
and beloved bullfighters
in the history of Cordoba.
Manolete had a tragic
death while he was
fighting a huge bull (over 500 kilos) in
Linares (Jaen) becoming a national hero.
The church reflects a magnificent fusion of styles: Gothic, Moorish
and even Roman.
Finally it’s worth mentioning that the Santa Marina Church had to
undergo major renovations after the earthquakes of 1680 and 1755
and the terrible fire of 1880.
San Agustin Church
Located in San Agustin Square,
this church is one of the most
beautiful in the city.
San Agustin Church was built in
1328 under the reign of
Fernando III. Its initial
appearance was later modified
by different architects,
especially after the reform
carried out in the seventeenth
century. The building was
severely damaged during the
French invasion of Spain (1803-1808). When visitors enter the
church, first thing they see are the mural paintings and plasterworks
of the ceiling, a unique and amazing work that cannot be missed if
you come to Cordoba. Equally stunning are the chapels and altars.
The bell tower was built in the sixteenth century.
San Lorenzo Church
The Church of San Lorenzo was built during the thirteenth century
and belongs to the group of churches called Fernandinas which were
built shortly after the Christian conquest.
In 1272 the King funded the construction of this beautiful church for
the district of San Lorenzo, one of the oldest in Cordoba.
San Lorenzo Church was built in place previously occupied by a
Mosque, which was something
very common at that time. The
only remains of the Mosque can
be found under the current bell
tower.
From the viewpoint of Spanish
Architecture, we can say that the
church follows an Andalusian
style: three naves without
transept and semi-circular apse.
The bell tower was built by
Hernan Ruiz and it is considered
to be a antecedent of the upper
part of Giralda Tower in Seville,
one of the most emblematic
monuments in Andalusia.
The unmistakable element that
makes the Church of San Lorenzo
a unique one is, doubtlessly, the
great Gothic-Mudejar rose window that we can
see on the facade.
Finally you cannot miss the great collection of Gothic-Italian style
paintings dating from the fourteenth century in the apse.
Viana Palace
Viana Palace is a fourteenth century manor house, built for a wealthy
family (Villaseca), which is located in the heart of Santa Marina
district. Over the centuries, the huge palace changed its owners many
times, specifically eighteen, until today. Currently, the beautiful
building is owned and maintained by Caja Sur Bank: presentations of
books, music albums, guided tours and press conferences take places
here regularly.
CORDOBA
Santa Marina Church
Did you know…?
In Christian Times the dead
people were buried near
churches, causing the
accumulation of bodies at
specific moments and extending
quickly contagious diseases and
epidemics through the
neighborhood. Gradually the
urbanization was changing and
the cemeteries were moved to
the outskirts of the city.
Address: Plaza de Santa Marina, 1
Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 2€ Audio guide Included
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday (12:00-14:00 & 16:00-18:00)
Saturday (09:30-11:30 & 15:30-17:30) Thursday & Sunday Closed
San Lorenzo Church
Address: Plaza de San Agustín
Prices: -
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (10:00-14:00 & 17:00-20:00)
Sunday (10:00-14:00) Monday Closed to tourists
Address: Plaza de San Lorenzo, s/n.
Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 2€ Audio guide included
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday (10:00-12:00 & 16:00-18:00)
Saturday (09:30-11:30 & 15:30-17:30) Thursday & Sunday Closed
On the 1st of November 1755 at 10:16 a horrible earthquake (9
degrees on Richter scale) devastated Lisbon. The epicenter was
located only 300 km from the Portuguese capital. Forty minutes
after the earthquake, a tsunami with waves between 6 and 20
meters high struck the final blow to the beautiful Portuguese city.
The effect of the earthquake could be felt as far away as Scotland,
Norway, USA, Canada or Mexico, causing material damage.
Those parts of the city not affected by the tsunami caught fire.
According to the official estimates, more than 100,000 people died
(5,000 of them in Spain) and many corpses were thrown into the
sea to avoid spreading epidemics.
Firefighters were trying for 5 days to put out the horrible fire,
thirty-four looters were executed and healthy men were forced by
the army to help with the reconstruction. One year later, Lisbon
was clean of debris and reconstruction works quickly started.
This devastating earthquake significantly affected Spain. More
than 5,000 people died in Spain and Cordoba suffered hard
consequences: numerous historical buildings such as the Mosque,
Madinat al-Zahra or “Fernandinas Churches” were seriously
damaged and the structures had to be reinforced.
In Seville died 5 people and the 89% of the buildings were
damaged and needed improvement works.
In other Andalusian coastal cities such as Huelva or Cadiz
incalculable damage occurred due to the tsunami.
Earthquake 1755

The most important reform was carried out in the eighteenth century
and led the Palace to its current condition. The whole Palace has
more than 6500
m2, divided into
rooms, gardens and
courtyards.
Among its main
attractions are the
beautiful
courtyards, a total
of twelve
(connected by
galleries), with
great diversity of
plants from all
around the world.
At the same time, the Palace has a huge library with
over 7000 volumes and an amazing collection of Flemish tapestries
and silver of high artistic value made in Cordoba.
Special mention should be made of the following places:
a) Gallery of Tiles: Impressive collection of tiles with wooden frames.
The variety of tiles is amazing, ranging from the thirteenth to the
nineteenth century.
b) Black Bedroom: Its name comes from the black furniture that
decorates the room. In this part of the Palace we can admire
hardwood furniture from the eighteenth and nineteenth century.
Perhaps the most remarkable thing about this room is the lavishly
decorated bed and the small armchair designed in an Elizabethan
style.
c) Gallery of Leather: In this room visitors can enjoy an exhibition of
different types of leather. The city of Cordoba is famous for its
leather works from the eighth century. Arab craftsmen of Cordoba
were the first in Europe to introduce and support the development of
these craftworks products. Today, artistic leather creations made in
Cordoba are admired and exhibited all around the world.
d) Mosaic Room: In this room there is a beautiful roman Mosaic
(fourth century) which was found in a small town in the province of
Cordoba and purchased by the Villaseca Family.
Also in this room we can see a beautiful painting on leather
representing Cleopatra at the funeral of Marc Antony (anonymous
work).
e) Marquis Bedroom: This room remains intact, just like the Marquis
of Viana (Admiral of the Spanish Armada) left it after his death.
f) Coffered Ceiling Room
It is one of the most
interesting rooms around
the Palace. Pay attention
to the Mudejar-style roof
(merger of Muslim and
Christian styles) which
imitates the hull of a ship
upside down.
The room is decorated
with old paintings,
Flemish tapestries and
antique furniture, creating a unique atmosphere.
One of the most appreciated pieces of art in the Palace is the painting
"A Lady", by Juan Pantoja de la Cruz, popular Spanish painter in the
sixteenth century.
The Hermitages
For many years the mountains surrounding Cordoba (Sierra Morena)
were occupied by hermit monks
who lived a contemplative life in
touch with nature. Often times,
they went down to the city and
collected some coins thanks to
the generosity of the citizens.
In 1703 the first Hermitage was
built. Up until that moment, the
monks lived, in extreme
precariousness, in the numerous
caves that dot Sierra Morena.
Over the years, were built more
Hermitages (13 buildings) to
accommodate the large number
of monks. The privileged
situation of the Hermitages
allows visitors to enjoy the best
panoramic views of Cordoba. In 1929 was placed
Viana Palace
Viana Palace
Malmuerta Tower is located just a few meters from Colon Park,
one of the most attractive urban parks in the city.
This tower was built in the fifteenth century to control the entry to
the Christian city and repel all possible attacks. The arch and the
tower were attached to the city wall by the Christian architects,
creating a fortification very difficult to conquer.
Over the years, the Tower lost its defensive functions and began
to be used as a prison for nobles and later as a planetarium thanks
to the height of the building.
The Malmuerta Tower is full of mysterious legends which try to
explain its construction.
The most popular legend says: “A Marquis married a beautiful
woman who liked to help sick and poor people of the city.
Regularly she offered them clothes, food and spent much time
helping them. Her husband thought that such work was not
suitable for a Marquise. Furthermore, he began wonder why his
wife spent so much time away from home. Suspicions, never
confirmed, grew and the Marquis began to think that his wife had
a lover. Fueled by jealousy and rage, the husband decided to kill
her and end the suffering.
Finally, the Marquis found out the truth: no lover was involved, his
wife just wanted to help those in need. The husband felt pangs of
conscience and confessed the crime to the King who commanded
him to build this tower.”
Address: Avenida de las Ollerías
Price: -
Opening Hours: -
Address: Plaza de Don Gomez, 2
Prices: Guided Tour 8€ / Only Courtyards 5€
st
July to 31
st
August (09:00-15:00) / From
1
st
Sept to 30 Jun (10:00-19:00) Saturday & Sunday (10:00-15:00)
Monday Closed
CORDOBA
Old Town
Malmuerta Tower

an imposing sculpture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which protects all
“cordobeses” from the highest part of the city. On a clear day you can
even see the snowy mountains of Sierra Nevada (Granada), located
more than 200 kilometers away.
The Hermitages were occupied until 1957, when the last hermit died.
xperts consider that the first Jews arrived in Cordoba from the
East in the tenth century B.C. From this moment onwards they
peacefully coexisted with the indigenous population during
centuries.
Hundreds of years later, the arrival of the Romans to Cordoba did not
change much the situation of stability of the Jewish people. Slowly
the Jewish population grew and began to occupy entire
neighborhoods of the city.
In the year 70 something happened that changed forever the fate of
the Jews. The Roman Emperor Titus destroyed Jerusalem and its
population had to flee to other cities such as Cordoba, increasing the
Jewish population in great numbers.
Despite this hard situation, we can say that the Romans respected
the Jews: they could practice
their religion freely, cooperated
with the Romans and were not
obliged to observe those Roman
laws which conflict with the
rules of Judaism.
This period of stability ended
with the invasion of the
Visigoths who began a
crackdown against the Jewish
people: Judaism was banned.
Shortly after, Visigoths even
ordered the expulsion of the
Jews from Spain. The only way
for them to stay in the country
was to convert to Christianity
(seventh century).
In the eighth century the Jews,
strongly mistreated by Visigoths, supported the
Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. From this moment, began
the period of greatest glory for the Jewish people in Cordoba.
During Al-Andalus period, Muslims deeply respected the Jews: they
could find jobs of great responsibility, controlled the finances of the
richest people, worked as Government Officials, and even traded in
the souk of the city.
Jews mostly lived in the Judería (Jewish Quarter), excluded from the
rest of the population. This quarter consisted of tiny, narrow and
winding streets and white one- floor houses.
During Christian times, Jews remained as a rich and powerful
community. For that reason, the Christian Kings tried to protect them
from the rest of the population. But this protection and other royal
favors generated envy and bred hatred. Shortly after, the attacks and
the persecution of Jews at the hands of Christian citizens became
increasingly common. Finally, The Catholic Kings had to issue a
Decree of Expulsion (1492). From this moment on, millions of Jews
left Spain, some were converted to Christianity and others lived in
hiding.
Synagogue
The synagogue is the Jewish holy building where they gather to pray.
The word synagogue comes from the Greek verb synagô which
means "to gather, collect".
The architectural model for
synagogues also comes from
ancient Greece, although were
added some modifications such
as basilica shaped buildings
with columns and a gallery for
women to pray.
Usually, synagogues were built
on the highest part of the city
and near rivers or lakes which
symbolized wealth, fertility and
abundance.
The Synagogue of Cordoba, the
only one in Andalusia, is
located in the heart of Jewish
Quarter (address: Calle Judios)
and was built in 1315 under
Christian domination. This wonderful synagogue is one of
the most important in Spain together with the Synagogue of Toledo,
near Madrid. They both are unique in the world for their style and
elegance. The design of the building follows a Mudejar style as can
be seen in the decoration, plastered walls and poly-lobed arches.
In front of the Oratory Gate there is a small courtyard with an
ablution pond.
The Oratory can be divided into four parts:
• South Wall: The small stairway leads to the Gallery of Women
where three large windows allowed them to participate in the
ceremony.
• East Wall: A beautiful arch hides a small space (2.8 meters deep)
designated for keeping the sacred scrolls and the Torah. This wall
must always be oriented toward Jerusalem.
• North Wall: This wall is the best preserved. You can still see small
decorative inscriptions from the fourteenth century.
• Western Wall: There is a small niche where the pulpit was located.
From here the rabbi led the prayer.
After the expulsion of the Jews in 1492 the synagogue was
abandoned and converted into a Hospital. Later, the building was
adapted to be used as Christian Chapel.
Jewry (Judería)
The Jewish quarter can be defined as a huge labyrinth of one-story
white houses where it is extremely easy to get lost. The Jewish
quarter spreads out around the Mosque, concretely through the
following streets: Judíos, Averroes, Al-Mansur, Romero, Dean and
squares: Maimonides, Tiberiades and Juda Levi.
The Jews began to occupy this area of Cordoba (World Heritage Site
E
How to get:
Unfortunately the Hermitages can be reached only by car (CO-
3314) although there are plans to launch a shuttle bus from the
city center.
Price: General 1,50€ / Reduced 0,70€
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-13:30 & 17:30-19:00 /
July and August (10:00-13:30 & 16:30-19:00) / Monday Close to
tourists
Phone: 957266607
Jewish Cordoba
Jewish Quarter
CORDOBA
Synagogue
Address: Calle Judios, 20
Prices: General 0,30€ / EU Citizens Free Admission
Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 & 15:30-17:30 Monday Closed

by UNESCO since 1994)
during the Christian
occupation.
Slowly, they bought
houses, renovated them,
set up their business and
began to accumulate
wealth.
The Fortress of Christian
Kings was nearby and
Jews were protected by
the royal troops. We have
to consider that the
Jewish community was
really hated by Christian
people. Thus, Jews began
to grow under the
protection of the Kings.
During the reign of
Fernando III, Jews planned to build a huge
synagogue next to the Mosque-Cathedral, one of the biggest in the
world. The Bishop of Cordoba was outraged for this project and
reported to Pope Innocent IV who ordered to stop the works
immediately. Despite that order, the works continued for several
years but the controversy and the Church's opposition prevailed and
works had to be cancelled. Finally the Jewish community decided to
build a small synagogue in the vicinity, the current synagogue located
on Judios Street.
Some of the most emblematic parts of the Jewish quarter are:
• Judíos Street
Through Almodovar Gate we reach Judíos Street which leads straight
to the Synagogue.
It is a must-see spot for tourists who can admire its numerous
monuments and points of interest.
• Tiberiades Square
Walking down Judíos Street we will find Tiberiades Square where
there is a small statue of Maimonides, famous philosopher, physician
and Jewish rabbi born in Cordoba.
Tradition says that if you touch the feet of Maimonides you will have
good luck all your life. The square has a romantic essence difficult to
find in the twenty-first century, enhanced by the musicians who
come to perform.
• Maimonides Square
Judíos Street finishes in Maimonides Square, a beautiful place where
the NH Amistad Hotel is located.
• Deanes Street
It is one of the most attractive streets of Cordoba for tourists: many
souvenir shops, Tapas bars, ice
cream shops...
• Flower Street
Right in front of the North facade
of the Mosque, we find Velazquez
Bosco Street, surrounded by small
craft and souvenir shops.
If we continue this street a few
meters up we will discover this
narrow alley (Flower Street), one
of the most visited streets in the
city.
This little street leads to a small
square with a beautiful fountain.
The whole street and the square
are decorated with all types of
flowers, creating a
rainbow of colors and aromas.
From the square you can admire one of the most amazing views in
the city, the bell tower of the Mosque-Cathedral across this narrow
street.
• Pedro Jimenez Street
If you leave the Mosque through Santa Catalina Gate and head to
Martinez Rücker Street you will discover one of the most beautiful
and attractive spots in the city. Popularly known as Calle Del Pañuelo
(Handkerchief Alley), this small dead end street is one of the most
popular in Cordoba. The average width of the street is similar to a
handkerchief (approximately 50 centimeters) and ends in a small
square with a romantic fountain from Arab Times and a typical
whitewashed house of the Jewish quarter.
Sephardic House
First let’s analyze the etymology of the word Sephardi: Sephardi can
be defined as the Jewish community that lived in Spain and was
expelled in 1492 by the Catholic Kings. Fortunately, they stillJewish Quarter
Jewish Quarter
CORDOBA
“
There are two types of oranges: bitter orange (China) and sweet
orange (India). During the Middle Ages, Muslims brought to the
Mediterranean basin this wonderful tree from China. In Spain the
tree quickly adapted thanks to the benevolent climate (warm
summers and winters not really cold). The fruits of this tree are
unsuitable for consumption as the oranges are bitter and sour.
Later, the Portuguese, great explorers and traders, introduced the
sweet orange (India) in Europe.
In the sixteenth century the Spanish conquistadors took this tree
to South America where its adaptation was successfully.
During the spring orange trees bloom which leads to an explosion
of aromas: the streets and squares around old town become
impregnated with this pleasant sensation.
Orange blossom is called “azahar” in Spanish. This word comes
from Arabic and means "white flower". Finally, it worth noting
that orange blossom has remarkable therapeutic properties:
Infusion of orange blossom: beneficial against stomach ailments
and headaches.
Scent of Orange Blossom: It promotes sleep and calms anxiety.
Orange Blossom Water: It relieves menstrual pain.
Petals in pure Alcohol: home fragrance.
Attention: Doctors do not recommend its use if the patient suffers
from gastritis, stomach ulcer or pregnant women.
Orange Tree (Old Town)
“Azahar”: Orange Blossom

maintain links with Spain through traditions, language, gastronomy
and culture. Currently, the Sephardic Community is present in many
different countries: Israel, USA, Turkey, France etc.
The Sephardic House is a Museum of Sephardic Culture, Art, History
and Traditions. A unique place to admire how the Spanish Jews lived
and how they felt during these difficult times that led to the
expulsion of millions of Jews. The Museum consists of five exhibition
halls which house a wonderful collection of pieces from different
places (Fez, Istanbul, Tétouan or Alexandria), where the Spanish Jews
went to live after being expelled. There is also an interesting shop
where you can buy, for instance, “Hanukkah” items or traditional
Sephardic music. It’s definitely worth a visit!
ow it's time to enjoy an interesting tour through the modern
city.
Cordoba, with more than 300,000 inhabitants, is a lively,
open and always welcoming city in the heart of Andalusia, a
prosperous region with a unique cultural heritage.
The center of the city is full of pedestrian areas and beautiful parks
where one can have a shelter from the sun. In addition to all this,
Cordoba is an ideal city for cycling thanks in large part to the
numerous bike lanes around downtown.
Tendillas Square
Tendillas Square is considered by local people to be the main square
of Cordoba: demonstrations, sport celebrations, speeches and others
crowded events are held sporadically in this central square.
In 1908 the Local Government began to build the Square as we know
it today. To be able to carry out the project, they had to tear down,
among others, the iconic Hotel Suizo which was located in the area.
During the twenties, the initial project underwent several changes
and important buildings were built:
Fernandez Marin´s House (1926)
Building of the Union and Fenix (1927). During the Civil War the
building was equipped with an alarm that warned the population
when there were bombings.
Telefonica Building (1927)
Colomera House (1927)
Building Siena (1928)
The equestrian statue that
today dominates Tendillas
Square was placed initially in
the Gran Capitan Boulevard
but in 1927 it was moved
here. This elegant statue was
designed in honor of the
legendary Spanish military
Gonzalo Fernández de
Córdoba, popularly known as
“The Great Captain” (page
32). One of the great
attractions of this Square is its
clock, designed in 1961. This
famous clock, is the only in
the World that strikes the
hours with Flamenco guitar music. It's worth waiting and listening!
The last major renovation took place in 1999 after which the square
was turned into a pedestrian zone where only buses and taxis are
allowed to circulate.
Tendillas S
Each December 31 “cordobeses” come to Tendillas Square to
celebrate the arrival of the New Year.
For more than a hundred years, Spanish people have a curious
tradition of eating 12 grapes in 12 seconds as the clock marks the
final twelve hours of the year. if you get to gulp down all the grapes,
you will have good luck during the coming year. The origin of this
tradition goes back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth
century. During these years, German and French aristocrats had the
habit of eating grapes and drinking champagne during the New Year´s
Eve dinner. Shortly after, the Spanish aristocracy copied the habit.
But people in Spain have a great sense of humour: lower-class people
in Madrid ironically began to imitate the aristocrats in eating grapes
during New Year´s Eve. Parallel, in 1909 grape harvest suffered from
surplus in the eastern provinces of Spain and producers needed to
sell them. They saw a
business opportunity and
decided to popularize the
recent habit of eating grapes
on New Year's Eve.
Gradually, this habit
consolidated in others parts
of the country until today. If
you try, be careful and don’t
choke on grapes!
Cruz Conde Str.
In 1926 the mayor of Cordoba, Cruz Conde inaugurated this street
amidst great controversy as it was necessary to demolish several old
buildings. This new street improved traffic flow between Tendillas
Square and Ronda
de los Tejares
Avenue, two of the
main thoroughfares
in the city. Shortly
after the
inauguration, the
street was filled
with trendy shops,
cafes, boutiques,
snack bars,
jewelers and
became the most
cosmopolitan street in Cordoba.
In 2010, Cruz Conde Street, after significant improvement works, was
converted into a beautiful pedestrian area, ideal for shopping and
having a stroll.
Ronda de los Tejares Avenue
Ronda de los Tejares is one of the main avenues in Cordoba and
connects Paseo de la Victoria Avenue with Colon Gardens.
This crowded avenue is dominated by two high buildings:
N
CORDOBA
Address: Calle Judíos, 17
Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 3€
Opening Hours: (11:00-18:00) Sundays (11:00-14:00) Bank
Holidays (10:00-18:00)
Modern Cordoba
Tendillas Square
Cruz Conde Street
Address: Plaza de las Tendillas
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Tendillas Square & New Year´s Eve

• El Corte Ingles Department Store:
The building is six storeys high and since its construction has had a
commercial use.
Formerly, the building belonged to Galerias Preciados but the
company had to be sold to El Corte Ingles due to the huge debts of
the owner. After this acquisition, El Corte Ingles became the largest
Department Store Group in Europe and 4th in the world.
Today the company operates three Department Stores in Cordoba,
two of them in downtown.
• Building CajaSur
This modern building
houses the headquarters
of CajaSur, the major
bank in the city and one
of the most important in
Andalusia.
The Presidency and
General Management are
centralized in this
building. Hence, security
measures are strong.
Recently, CajaSur Bank
was acquired by the Basque
bank BBK due to some financial difficulties.
Gardens of Agriculture
Between the Railway Station and Victoria Avenue are located the
Gardens of Agriculture, a beautiful park in the middle of the city
center and very popular among “cordobeses”.
This park (1811) is the ideal place to take a rest after a long day
walking or just relax while waiting for your train. The Gardens of
Agriculture are divided by two large fountains and a small pond
inhabited by ducks and pigeons. The wide variety of leafy trees
(banana tree, ginkgo tree, horse chestnut...) provides plenty of shade.
The huge sculpture
which presides over the
park is dedicated to the
famous painter Julio
Romero de Torres. At the
entrance of the park,
near Victoria Avenue,
there is a small statue
dedicated to the owner
of a small kiosk who was
sadly murdered one
night in the park.
Paseo de la Victoria Avenue
Paseo de la Victoria Avenue is considered to be one of the traffic
arteries of the city: every day hundreds of cars, buses, taxis and
motorbikes crowd the avenue during peak hours.
Paseo de la Victoria Avenue starts at Red Cross Roundabout and ends
at Galindo Aguilar Roundabout, connecting with Ronda de Tejares
Avenue.
Running parallel to this avenue, we find a beautiful park called
Victory Gardens. These wonderful gardens began to be designed in
1776 and were subsequently extended and modified until today.
For many years, the City Fair (Nuestra Señora de la Salud) took place
at the Victory Gardens, but fortunately in 1994 was moved to the
new Fairground (Arenal). The City Fair caused extensive damage to
the gardens, not to mention drunken people wandering and causing
havoc everywhere.
Victory Gardens has high-value species such as:
 Tree of Love
 Date Palm
 Washingtonia Palm
 Canary Pine
 Carob tree
Los Califas Bullring
The bull is an animal closely
linked to the Mediterranean
culture (Greece, Southern
France, Crete, Spain, Portugal
Italy...). In Spain bullfighting is
part of the cultural heritage:
the great poet Federico Garcia
Lorca, big fan of bullfighting,
called it "authentic religious
drama". Supporters or
detractors, nobody can deny
that bullfighting is an
important generator of wealth
in large parts of southern Spain
(Andalusia, Extremadura,
Castilla La Mancha ...) and
helps to create many jobs.
In Cordoba bullfights have been
intimately linked to the history
of the city. According to historical documents, the first bullfight in
Cordoba took place in 1492. For centuries, Corredera Square was the
place chosen to hold these primitive bullfights. Later, in the
nineteenth century, were built several wooden bullrings (1815, 1820
and 1827) near Ronda Los Tejares Avenue to meet the needs of a city
where bullfights are more than a mere show.
Los Califas Bullring was finally inaugurated in 1965 and today is
considered as one of the best bullrings in Spain (16,900 spectators).
At the same time, Cordoba has been the birthplace of important
national bullfighting heroes: Machaquito, Lagartigo, Manolete,
Guerrita, El Cordobes. The bullfighting season starts around March
and ends in October. The last week of May (Fair of Our Lady of
Health) is the ideal time to enjoy this exciting show since some of the
best bullfighters visit the city.
Gran Capitan Boulevard
Gran Capitan Boulevard extends from Ronda de los Tejares Avenue to
the Church of San Nicolas, one of the most beautiful of the modern
city. Church masterfully fuses different styles: Gothic, Mudejar,
Renaissance. In the nineteenth century, the Railroad reached
Cordoba and the Local Government decided to carry out an
ambitious plan to renovate much of the city center and meet the
expectations. The Government decided to build a wide avenue from
the city center to the old Train Station (now Headquarters of the
Andalusian Public Television).
This avenue allowed the city to have typically bourgeois spaces to
Ronda Tejares Avenue & Caja Sur Building
Gardens of Agriculture
Address: Avenida America, Avenida Mozarabes and Avenida
Cervantes.
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
CORDOBA
Manolete Monument (Conde Priego
Square)
Address: Avenida Gran Vía Parque. s/n
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -

accommodate the growing upper classes such as Gran Capitan Cafe,
considered the most
luxurious in Andalusia, and
the Grand Theatre.
During the twentieth
century, important buildings
were designed: Bank of
Spain, Trade Union
Building, Jerez Bank
Building or Treasury
Department Building.
Over the years, urban
development was
accelerated and traffic on
this avenue became a hell:
too many cars, noisy buses
and motorcycles caused air
pollution and traffic
congestion.
Fortunately, the avenue was
transformed into a pedestrian boulevard (1989) where people could
do shopping, stroll, have a drink or simply feed the doves.
Real Circulo de la Amistad
The small Alfonso XIII Street boasts one of the most luxurious
buildings in downtown, “El Circulo de la Amistad”, a former casino.
This institution was founded in 1854 by the emerging bourgeoisie
and upper class of Cordoba Society. Thanks to its construction, the
city finally had a place where Culture and Art went hand in hand:
scholars, poets, painters and journalists gathered here to discuss and
philosophize about current issues.
Today, the building houses interesting pictorial collections as well as
a fantastic library with more than 17000 copies that members (over
300) can use, elegant rooms, romantic courtyards, gardens, games
room, an old-fashioned cafe and even a traditional tavern.
This long-established institution hasn´t changed its trajectory and
continues to organize cultural activities, photography exhibitions...
Paseo de Córdoba Boulevard & Libertad
Avenue
The inauguration of the High Speed Train (AVE) deeply changed
Cordoba: a new Train Station was built and the railroads were buried,
releasing a huge building plot in the heart of midtown (highly coveted
by voracious building companies). After several months of planning,
the Council decided to
build a huge boulevard
(Paseo de Cordoba) with
more than 1800 meters
of gardens, fountains,
beautiful streetlights,
bike lanes etc.
Next to this great
Boulevard, was designed
the Libertad Avenue,
which connects northern
suburbs of the city with
the new Train Station. For many years,
Cordoba had been a city trapped in its past but this urban
development led Cordoba to the 21st century.
Soon, this part of the city became the most exclusive area of
Cordoba, frequented by well off people: chic pubs, restaurants, clubs,
modern Hotels and expensive apartments with private pool were
designed to meet the growing demand.
When good weather comes to Cordoba, people come to walk, jog
roller blade or cycle, filling the nice boulevard.
Colon Park
Colon Park is one of the most
beautiful parks in downtown and
is located on Colon Square (few
meters away from Ronda de los
Tejares Avenue).
Thanks to its privileged location,
Colon Park has become an ideal
place to relax, admire the
beautiful trees and get your
strength back after a long day
visiting Cordoba.
In the middle of the park there is
a beautiful fountain (designed
by Carlos Saez de Santamaria in
1920) that deserves to be
photographed.
On one side of the park you can see a small mosque
known as the "Morabito" which was built during the Spanish Civil
War (1936-1939) to serve the troops
from North Africa.
The Park has a wide variety of trees
and plants:
• Banana Trees
• Pines
• Palms
The park is full of people at any time
of the day so it is not a dangerous
place for tourists. Naturally, we
recommend you keep some basic
precautions such as guarding your
belongings, your camera and
passport.
CORDOBA
Building of the Union and Fenix
(Tendillas Square)
Address: Calle de Alfonso XIII
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Website: www.circuloamistad.com
Paseo de Cordoba Boulevard
Colon Park
Morabito Mosque
Address: Colon Square
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3
Like any city, Cordoba can be visited quickly in one day or otherwise
you may need a lifetime to visit each of the beautiful places of this
wonderful medieval city. In Mundo Guides we recommend you a three-day
itinerary in order not to miss any detail and enjoy the essence of one of
world´s important cities during the Middle Ages.
11:30 Walking Tour: The Jewish Quarter
Almodovar GateJudios StreetSynagogueAndalusi
HouseTiberiades SquareDeanes StreetFlowers
Street.
16:00 Calahorra Tower (Al-Andalus
Museum)
and Roman Bridge
17:30 Square of the Colt & Inn of the Colt
19:00 Corredera Square
19:30 Roman Temple of Claudius Marcellus
Street
20:00 Dinner: San Rafael Restaurant
21:00 Back to the Hotel
10:45 Royal Stables
13:45 Lunch: La Viuda Restaurant
16:15 Santa Marina Church & Monument to
Manolete
19:15 Hammam Al-Andalus
Enjoy a complete thermal circuit (cold, warm and hot
water)
20:45 Dinner: Hammam Al-Andalus Restaurant
21:45 Back to the Hotel
10:45 Visit the Museum and the ruins of
Madinat al-Zahra
13:00 Back to Cordoba
13:30 Lunch: Casa Rubio Restaurant
18:00 Visit Downtown:
Jesus Maria StreetTendillas SquareCruz Conde
StreetRonda de los Tejares AvenueBoulevard del Gran
CapitanConcepcion StreetGondomar Street
14:30 Fortress of the Christian Kings
12:15 Sephardic House
10:00 Visit the Great Mosque 10:00 Caliphal Baths 10:15 Bus Stop Paseo de la Victoria (Glorieta de la
Cruz Roja) Destination Madinat al-Zahra
11:30 Leather Shop-Museum (Encarnacion Street)
17:00 San Agustin Church
13:00 Lunch: San Basilio Restaurant
18:00 Julio Romero de Torres Museum 17:45 San Lorenzo Church
16:00 Archaeological Museum
20:00/20:30 Dinner: Tavern San Miguel Casa Pisto
22:30 Flamenco Show: El Cardenal
Back to the Hotel
Cordoba in Three Days
Establishments and Restaurants recommended by Mundo Guides in this
three-day itinerary have been included for their good reputation and
close location to the major points of interest. In any case, they are not
sponsored recommendations.

uring the month of May, the entire city is awash with the
colors and scents of spring and hundreds of thousands of
tourists fill the narrow streets of Old Town. There are two
celebrations marking the beginning of the spring in Cordoba: Patios
Festival and Fair of Our Lady of Health (Feria de Nuestra Señora de la
Salud).
• Patios Festival (Throughout the month of May)
The Jewish quarter of Cordoba is full of small whitewashed houses
which retain their original structure from the Middle Ages: a central
courtyard around which the rooms are located.
These houses were built in this way to try to mitigate the heat during
the long summer months. At the same time, the white color of the
facades repels the sun’s rays, helping to reduce the temperature
inside the houses.
In the past, these courtyards (patios) were the center of social life
for families: here they gathered to chat, discuss or just relax at the
end of the day. Gradually, the neighbors began to place and decorate
the patios with many flowers and plants which they fussed over the
whole year. Even in some courtyards were built deep wells used to
water the plants.
This lifestyle has remained unchanged right up until the present day
and Local Authorities are firmly committed to protecting this
beautiful tradition. With this aim, the City Council holds a contest for
patio owners since 1918: families strive to place beautiful flowers and
water them, clean and paint the walls and restore the wrought iron
chairs which get rusty by the harsh effects of wintry weather.
When spring comes the town, these romantic courtyards open their
doors to the public and a jury, composed of architects, experts in
botany and a city councilor, decides the winner after visiting the
participating patios (over 45).
This patio contest attracts every year many thousands of visitors to
the city who try to admire and photograph this wonderful spectacle
of color. Currently, the festival is proposed to become a World
Heritage Site in 2013, which would help preserve this beautiful
tradition that runs the risk of losing relevance as many families
cannot devote much time to decorate the courtyard.
• Fair Our Lady of Health (Last week of May)
It is, undoubtedly, the most important festive event in Cordoba. A lot
of women dressed in gorgeous traditional Sevillanas costumes and
beautifully decorated horse carriages fill the streets during the whole
week, creating a special atmosphere in the city. The fairground
(Arenal) is located near the Guadalquivir River. Inside this complex
are installed attractions for young people, Ferris wheels, raffles, food
kiosks and tents where you can eat typical tapas and enjoy fine wine
produced in Andalusia. These tents are called "casetas" and usually
admission is free of charge. In addition, “casetas” have a festive
atmosphere really difficult to forget: loud music, live performances,
garlands and people dancing the whole day.
ow we propose a route through four of the most influential
figures in the history of Cordoba: Seneca, Averroes,
Maimonides and Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba.
Seneca
Cordoba, 4 B.C. - Rome, 65.
Seneca was a famous Roman
stoic philosopher, statesman,
orator and writer. During his
life in Rome Seneca became
an admired Senator and
advisor to Emperor Nero.
Seneca came from a wealthy
Roman family that lived in
Cordoba. His father was the
famous writer and orator
Marco Annaeus Seneca.
Seneca was very young when
he was sent to Rome to
receive the best academic
training possible. During his
years in Rome Seneca lived
with his aunt and uncle, who were economically well-off.
After a few years in the capital of the Empire, Seneca and his relatives
went to live in Alexandria (Egypt) where he completed his excellent
education and specialized in subjects such as geography and
meteorology. When Seneca was 31, he returned to Rome, where he
soon emerged as a great writer and orator and became one of the
most influential Senators of Rome.
Unfortunately, some clashes with the Emperor led him to be
sentenced to death several times. Fortunately, he avoided death and
ended up in exile on the island of Corsica for eight years.
Thanks to the Emperor's new wife, Agrippina, Seneca returned to
Rome where he was appointed Praetor of Rome and became Nero's
tutor (Agrippina´s son, the future Emperor).
When Seneca was 54, the Emperor Claudius was poisoned by his wife
Agrippina. Immediately afterwards, Nero (Seneca's pupil) was chosen
as the new Emperor, he was 16 years old.
During the early years of his mandate, Seneca played a very
important role as a trusted political advisor to Nero. No decision was
taken without the consent of Seneca (were enacted numerous
financial reforms and important laws that deeply changed Rome).
When Nero reached adulthood, Emperor began to feel that he should
get rid of the influence of Seneca. This was exploited by the enemies
of Seneca who started a smear campaign: they accused him of
excessive wealth and lavish banquets and even of having sex with
Agrippina, Nero´s mother. Few years later, Nero cruelly murdered
Agrippina. From this moment, the Emperor was surrounded by
sycophants and Roman parasites who wanted to expel Seneca from
Rome. Shortly after that, Seneca tried to escape from this deplorable
situation and asked to retire from political life.
During this voluntary retirement Seneca spent his time traveling
through Italy and writing essays (Letters to Lucilius).
Finally, when he was 65, Seneca was wrongfully accused of
participating in an assassination attempt against Nero. The sentence
was irrevocable: the death penalty. When Seneca got the news he
could not believe it. He knew that Nero would kill him with the
greatest cruelty possible.
D
N
Springtime Explosion
Typical Andalusian Courtyard
Who are they?
CORDOBA
Seneca

Seneca, terrified, committed suicide at his home.
Other members of his family such as his brothers and his nephew
also killed themselves: they were certain that the cruelty of Nero
would fall on them as well.
Averroes
Cordoba, 1126 - Marrakech, 1198.
Averroes was a famous Andalusian philosopher, physician and
teacher of philosophy,
Islamic law, mathematics,
astronomy and medicine.
Averroes came from a
wealthy family who worked
as judges in Al-Andalus,
profession that later he also
would practice in Seville and
Cordoba.
Years later, he was appointed
personal physician to the
Caliph, a very important and
influential position.
Probably one of his most
important contributions was
the medical encyclopedia
and the comments on the
work of Aristotle.
Jacob Anatoli (1194 - 1256) translated his texts from Arabic into
Hebrew. From then on Averroes's teachings spread rapidly
throughout Europe. His texts were also translated into Latin by some
scholars, contributing to popularize the work of Averroes.
At the end of the twelfth century, a wave of fanaticism and radical
Islamism invaded Al-Andalus. We are talking about Almohades who
stated that the works of Averroes were incompatible with Islam. They
banned all his works, his personal library was burned and the
philosopher was exiled from the capital. During his exile, Averroes
lived in Lucena, a prosperous town in the province of Cordoba.
Finally, the Andalusian erudite died in Marrakech when he was 72
years old.
Maimonides
Cordoba 1135 - Fustat (Egypt) 1204
Maimonides was the most famous doctor, rabbi and Jewish
theologian of the middle Ages: his influence in medieval thought was
notorious and globally accepted. His most important work is the
“Guide for the Perplexed”, a philosophical treatise written originally
in Arabic.
Maimonides came from a particular family. The paternal family was
rich. They worked as rabbinical judges and were leaders of the Jewish
community in Cordoba. His mother's family was very humble: his
grandfather was a butcher and his grandmother died very young.
Since Maimonides was a child, he received excellent education in
Cordoba: during the Middle Ages, the city was one of the most
important cultural centers of the world, the ideal place to study,
learn and gain popularity.
When Maimonides was thirteen years old a radical Islamic wave,
promoted by Almohades,
reached Al-Andalus and
Maimónides and his family
pretended to convert to
Islam. Unfortunately, Local
Authorities discovered the
origin of the family and
they were eventually
expelled from Al-Andalus.
Maimonides lived in
Almeria for a few years,
where he helped to hide
Averroes from this radical
wave. In 1160 the family
decided to move to Fez
(Morocco) but Almohades
spread inevitably to North
Africa. Very worried and
frustrated, Maimonides moved to Egypt where finally
he lived happily. In Egypt he worked as personal doctor to several
Egyptian ministers.
Finally, in December 1204 he died and his corpse was moved to
Tiberiades (Israel).
Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba (The Great
Captain)
Montilla (Cordoba), 1453 - Loja (Granada), 1515
Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba was a nobleman, politician and
military leader very famous in Spain.
When he was a child he waited on Prince Alfonso, brother of the
future Queen Isabel. When Alfonso died Gonzalo Fernandez de
Cordoba joined the Queen´s personal entourage.
Shortly after his marriage with Isabel de Montemayor, his wife died.
From this moment Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba was plunged into a
deep depression and decided to devote himself to military service of
the Catholic Kings. One of his first achievements was the successful
negotiation with the Moorish King Boabdil. Thanks to these
negotiations Catholics took over Granada in 1492. As a reward,
Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba received the Order of Santiago and
large amounts of money. Later something happened that changed
the life of Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba forever: France invaded
Naples. Spain, which was an ally of the King of Naples, could not
allow this humiliating situation. The Spanish Catholic Kings organized
a formidable fleet of
ships that sailed to Italy
to defeat the French
troops. After this
victory, Gonzalo
Fernandez de Cordoba
began to be known as
“El Gran Capitan” (The
Great Captain). As a
result of the war, Naples
was divided into two
parts: the north part
which belonged to
France and the south
part which belonged to
Spain. Shortly after that,
the French army broke
the pact and attacked
CORDOBA
Address: Almodovar Gate
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Address: Calle Cairuan
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Averroes
Address: Plaza Tiberiades
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Maimonides
Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba

the Spanish cities in Naples. Once more The Great Captain and his
fleet arrived in Italy and brutally defeated the French army.
In 1504 Queen Isabel died and King Fernando and Gonzalo Fernandez
de Cordoba slowly cooled their relationship. King believed that The
Great Captain had higher aspirations and hidden secrets: the
independence to Naples.
Faced with this situation, King Fernando asked him to return to Spain.
Once in Spain, the King separated The Great Captain from the
political and military life.
Frustrated, Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba retired to Loja (Granada)
where he died in 1515.
Almodovar Castle
Almodovar Castle is located 22 km from Cordoba on a hill 252 meters
high. The castle's position made it strategically important in
safeguarding the town of Almodovar. At the same time, the
proximity of the Guadalquivir River allowed vessels to be identified,
to report their positions before arriving in Cordoba.
Previously this hill was occupied by a Roman fort of which
unfortunately, nothing remains today.
In 760, under Muslim rule, the Caliph began to build this imposing
castle. Despite the numerous reforms carried out over the years, it is
easy to find Muslim building elements such as some of the arches.
In 1240 the castle passed into Christian hands and tremendous works
were carried out to reconstruct the walls and improve the defensive
system of the castle.
The last major reform was undertaken in 1903 by the Earl of Torralva,
owner of the castle.
The most interesting parts of the fortress are: the Tower of Homage,
the Tower of the School, and the
beautiful castle walls.
Tourists can visit this castle
every day of the year except
December 25th and January 1st.
Weekends and public holidays
the castle is open all day, being
able to visit it with a guide or on
your own. Medieval lunches are
another tourist attraction in this
wonderful castle. They are held
on Sundays and bank holidays
(from October to May).
The courtyards of the castle are
also used for various events and
business lunches.
Priego
Priego is a small and lovely town located in the heart of Subbetica
mountain range, 100 km away from Cordoba and bordering with
Jaen and Granada. The Mountains that protect Priego de Cordoba
were once inhabited by bears and wolves and were a refuge for
outlaws, popularly known as “bandoleros”, in the nineteenth century.
At the same time, Priego, one of the most beautiful towns in
Andalusia, has a very interesting cultural heritage dating from
Roman Times to the wonderful Spanish Baroque, without forgetting
the Al-Andalus period.
Besides its large cultural offer, Priego is one of the best places in
Andalusia to deepen your knowledge on olive oil. This area of the
province of Cordoba produces some of the best olive oils in the
world. Several companies offer great tours and guided visits to olive
oil factories, which are really interesting. Alandalus Tours
(http://www.alandalus-tour.com/search/label/English).
The Roman Times
Unfortunately, little information is available about the Roman
occupation. According to archaeologists, the Roman Empire founded
the city between the third and the fifth century.
If you are interested in visiting some Roman remains (pottery vessels,
tombs, kilometer marker etc.) you can visit the Municipal Historical
Museum which is well worth a visit.
The Muslim Era (Al-Andalus)
During the years of Muslim rule, Priego de Cordoba enjoyed great
prosperity and the town became coveted object of desire among
Muslim Lords (Hafsún Ben Omar, Mastana and Banu Said ben
Matruh). When the Caliphate of Cordoba disintegrated (1030), the
Empire began to split into different realms (taifas) and Priego de
Cordoba became a part of the Nazari Kingdom of Granada.
In the eleventh century, the city was conquered by the Almoravides
and later by Almohades (12
th
century).
During the years of Muslim
occupation, a beautiful
Moorish fortress was built
which was later renovated
and converted into a castle
by the Christians in the
thirteenth and fourteenth
centuries. Near the castle
we can also enjoy a stroll
around the historic “De la
Villa” neighborhood dating
back to Muslim Times: its
white, winding and narrow
streets remind of the
Albayzin (Granada) or the
Jewish quarter in Cordoba.
The Christian Era
In 1225 King Fernando III conquered the city and declared it officially
Christian. The King was aware of the need to control Priego to
continue the “Reconquest” (conquest of Arab territories in Spain by
the Christian troops). Thus, the King commissioned the Order of
Calatrava (powerful military and religious Order) to protect the city.
But all plans of King Fernando III collapsed when the city was
conquered again by the Muslim armies.
Finally, in 1341 the Christian King Alfonso XI took possession of the
city again: shortly after, the Moorish fortress was renovated and
converted into castle and the city was repopulated with Christian
people from all over the country, especially from North Spain. In the
sixteenth century was built a beautiful fountain, called Fuente de la
Address: Tendillas Square
Prices: -
Opening Hours: -
Daytrips
Address: Calle del Castillo 14720 Almodóvar del Río (Cordoba)
Opening Hours: Open every day except on 25
th
of December and
1
st
of January.
1
st
April – 30
th
September: Monday-Friday 11:00-14:30 & 16:00-
19:00 / Weekends and Bank Holidays 11:00-19:00
1
st
October – 31
st
March: Monday-Fridays 11:00-14:30 & 16:00-
20:00 / Weekends and Bank Holidays 11:00-20:00
Website: http://www.castillodealmodovar.com
How to get
By car: From Cordoba. Take
the road to Palma del Río
(N-431).
By Bus: San Sebastian
Buses. You have to buy the
ticket at the Bus Station in
Cordoba. Once in
Almodovar, you have to
walk up to the castle which
is perched on a rocky ridge.
CORDOBA
Medieval Quarter

Salud (Fountain of
Health): according
to popular legend,
the armies of
Alfonso XI camped
here during the
siege of the city
(1341). However
this information
was never
confirmed.
San Francisco Church: This small church was built in the first half of
the sixteenth century although it underwent extensive remodeling in
the eighteenth century (Baroque style). Inside the church there is a
small chapel which houses a wonderful wood sculpture of Jesus of
Nazarethdesigned in 1592. During Holy Week -one of the best times
to visit the town- the sculpture is enthusiastically venerated by the
inhabitants of Priego who carry it in procession through the city.
From the Sixteenth Century – Until Today
During all these centuries Priego de Cordoba experienced moments
of decay and prosperity as well as serious epidemics that decimated
the population.
In the sixteenth century the beautiful Church of the Assumption was
designed by Francisco Javier Pedrajas in a baroque-rococo style. The
whole interior is
profusely decorated
with white plaster,
simulating the ascent
to heaven. The
sacristy (El Sagrario),
built in 1784, is
considered one of
the masterpieces of
Spanish Baroque.
In 1803 La Fuente
del Rey (King´s
Fountain) was built.
This is one of the most popular places in town: all tourists come to
visit this beautiful monument and take pictures of one of the most
famous fountains in Andalusia. The Fountain consists of 139 jets,
many of them decorated with stone ghost face masks, and three
ponds located at different levels. There are also two really beautiful
sculptures representing The Lion and The Snake and Neptune with
Amphitrite.
Over the years, the textile industry and agriculture allowed the city to
grow and population increased dramatically, gaining importance in
the province of Cordoba.
Taffeta and velvet were some of the most famous and appreciated
products in Priego. They were even exported to important cities such
as Paris, Seville, Malaga or even to America.
Currently, the production of olive oil is an engine of economic growth
and is considered by gastronomic experts as one of the best in the
world. We recommend booking a tour and discover one of these
olive oil factories.
WHAT TO VISIT
 Balcón del Adarve (Adarve Balcony)
 Barrio de la Villa (Medieval Quarter)
 Matadero y Mercado de la Villa (Slaughterhouse and
Market Villa)
 Castle
 Iglesia de la Asuncion (Assumption Church)
 Fuente del Rey (King´s Fountain)
 Fuente de la Salud (Fountain of Health)
 Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square)
 Iglesia de San Francisco (San Francisco Church)
 Iglesia de la Aurora y San Nicasio (Church of Aurora and San
Nicasio)
 Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Angustias (Church of Our
Lady of Sorrows)
 Calle del Rio (River Street)
 Museo Histórico Municipal (Municipal Historical Museum)
 Plaza de Toros (Bullring)
A nice way to discover the city is the "Chiquibus” which is an electric
minibus that offers a tour through the main tourist attractions (5€).
Tours are available in English, Spanish and French.
For more information, visit the Tourist Office on Constitution Square.
Cave of the Bats (Zuheros)
Zuheros is a beautiful village of 800 inhabitants with typical
Andalusian whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, located 76
kilometers from Cordoba.
Mundo Guides strongly recommends a visit to the Cave of the Bats,
which is a place of great historical value for archaeologists and
experts. This cave, which is 4 km away from Zuheros, can be
considered as one of the best Neolithic and Paleolithic sites in
Europe (35000 and 18000 years ago).
Thanks to the work of local archaeologists, valuable remains have
been found: food scraps, animal bones, personal items and rock
paintings (horses, deer ...).
During the Roman times this cave was also used as a shelter to
protect against bad weather conditions.
Since many years, the cave is dwelled by a large bat community that
gives the cave its name. But Zuheros is not just caves. Surrounding
the village there is a beautiful Natural Park called Sierras Subbéticas
where you can perform activities such as hiking or rock climbing.
The Castle of Zuheros of Muslim origin stands on a small cliff,
overlooking the valley.
How to get
By car: The journey from Cordoba to Priego is safe and
pleasant. Take the motorway A-340. Once you reach
Lucena, follow the instructions to Cabra, Carcabuey and
finally, you will get to Priego de Cordoba.
By Bus: Buses from Cordoba Bus Station (Carrera Buses).
CORDOBA
King´s Fountain
San Francisco Church
How to get
By Car: Take the road to Granada. When you get to
Baena follow the instructions to Zuheros.
By Bus: There are daily bus links between Cordoba
and Zuheros (Carrera Buses) departing from Cordoba
Bus Station
Opening Hours (Guided Tours): 1
st
October – 31
st
March: 12:30 & 16:30 / Weekends and Bank Holidays:
11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 16:00 & 17:30
1
st
April – 30
th
September: 12:30 & 17:30 / Weekends
and Bank Holidays: 11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 17:00 & 18:30
Groups of more than 20 people are not accepted so
it is highly advisable to book in advance.
Website: http://www.cuevadelosmurcielagos.com/
Telephone: 957694545

Archaeological Museum
Fortunately for visitors, the Archaeological Museum does justice to
the amazing historical legacy of the city. According to some historians
and archaeologists, this magnificent Museum, is the second best in
Spain after the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. Thanks to
recent reforms, the Museum has been expanded and visitors can
admire wonderful pieces from Prehistory to the Middle Ages in a
wonderful journey through the history of the city.
We strongly recommend you not to miss:
• Glass Neolithic
• Sculpture of Lion (V century B.C.)
• Treasury of Almadenes (second century B.C.)
• Sculpture of Mithras (second century)
• Statues of Roman Emperors
• Coin Collection of Al-Andalus: it´s considered as one of the world's
most important.
• Collection of Medina al-Zahra: capitals, columns, fountains...
The ancient Roman Theatre of Cordoba was discovered on the
foundations of the current Archaeological Museum of Cordoba, as
well as some roman craft workshops and medieval Arab houses. If
you wish you can visit the stands of the Roman Theatre in one of the
rooms of the Museum.
According to some historians, the Roman philosopher
Seneca was born and lived during his childhood in the streets
surrounding the Museum.
Finally, the Archaeological Museum of Cordoba boasts a large library
specializing in archeology, museums and historical heritage. With this
library the City Council performs a truly remarkable educational
function.
Julio Romero de Torres Museum
Julio Romero de Torres (1874-
1930) was the most important
painter in the history of
Cordoba. In this house lived
and worked the great
Andalusian painter, who had
an enormous popularity in
Spain because of his eccentric
character, his bitter polemics
with the critics as well as the
theme of his work.
During his years in Cordoba,
the young artist enjoyed the
cultural life of the city to the
fullest: it was here where he
acquired his artistic knowledge
and where he did his first
works, gaining tremendous
popularity in Andalusia.
But soon the artist moved to
Madrid where the possibilities
were infinitely greater. In the
Spanish capital he met the
most important painters of the
time and become a public
figure known throughout
Spain.
Later, he made several trips to Europe and participated in several
competitions in different European cities. But his greatest success
was achieved in Buenos Aires (1922) where his exhibition was
acclaimed by the audience.
In 1930 the painter had liver disease and decided to return to his
hometown. Back in Cordoba, he tried to live quietly and dedicate to
painting and contemplation.
Few months before dying, he painted his final work and one of the
most popular paintings of Julio Romero de Torres, “La Chiquita
Piconera”.
If you visit this great Museum, the most visited in Cordoba, we
strongly recommend you not to miss the following paintings:
• The Poem of Cordoba
• Marta
• Cante Hondo
• Carmen
• La Chiquita Piconera
• El retablo del amor
The current Museum is open since 1936 and reflects the popularity
and the great love that “Cordobeses” feel for the painter.
CORDOBA
Museums & Culture
Jeronimo Paez Square and Archaeological Museum
Address: Plaza Jerónimo Páez
Prices: General 1,5€ EU Citizens Free Admission
Opening Hours: Tuesday (14:30-20:30) Wednesday-Saturday
(09:00-20:30) Sunday (09:00-14:30) Monday Closed
Julio Romero de Torres Musuem
Address: Plaza del Potro 1
Prices: General 4,5€ / Reduced 2,25€ / Fridays Free Admission
Opening Hours: 16
th
Sept- 15
th
Jun: Tuesday – Friday (08:30-19:30) /
Saturday (08:30-16:30) / Sunday & Bank Holidays (09:30-14:30) /
Monday Closed
16
th
Jun – 15
th
Sept: Tuesday – Saturday (08:30-14:30) / Sunday &
Bank Holidays (09:30-14:30) / Monday Closed

Museum of Fine Arts
This wonderful Museum, located
in the historic Square of the Colt,
is one of the most visited in
Cordoba due to its huge variety
of works by renowned artists.
The Museum was opened in
1862 although previously the
building housed a hospital built
by the Catholic Kings (fifteenth
century).
Once inside the Museum, visitors
can enjoy an excellent collection
of sculptures and paintings,
which is unique in Andalusia.
The upper floor is dedicated to
the medieval era, Renaissance
and Baroque. On the ground floor you will find works of the
nineteenth and twentieth century. Special mention should be made
of the wonderful patio and the mosaic made with small stones.
Major Works:
 “Still Life with Oranges” (Rafael Romero Barros)
 “Altarpiece of the Flagellation” (Anonymous)
 “Escape to Egypt” (Acisclo Antonio Palomino)
 “San Nicolas de Bari” (Pedro de Córdoba)
Flamenco Cultural Center “Fosforito”
This Museum is located in a beautiful house built in the fifteenth
century which is popularly known as Inn of the Colt (one of the oldest
hotels in Europe). In the past, this neighborhood was one of the most
important urban centers of the city: the streets were full of vitality
and many craft workshops and taverns opened their doors.
Recently, the Government has undertaken a series of improvements
to house the Flamenco Cultural Center which is devoted to the
legendary flamenco singer (cantaor) Fosforito, who was born in
Cordoba (1932). Currently, this Cultural Center organizes all kind of
activities related to the world of Flamenco (photo exhibitions, record
launches...).
At the same time, an
interesting Flamenco
library, a video library
and a shop have been
built to complete this
wonderful Museum.
In short, this Cultural
Center is a perfect
place to broaden your
knowledge of this
musical style, typically
Spanish.
Museum of Leather Crafts
“Guadameci” technique can be defined as a artisanal technique
whereby the sheep leather is tanned and decorated with gold and
silver thread. This technique was introduced in Europe by Muslims.
Shortly after, Cordoba became the largest production center of
embossed leather in the world and Madinat al-Zahra one of the
largest craft workshops of the time.
In this Museum we can admire the works by Ramon Garcia Romero,
one of the most acclaimed artists in the city and promoter of this
Museum. His collection ranges from the beautiful “guadamecíes” to
also famous “cordobanes”. All his works show different
leatherworking techniques and reveal the beauty of this material.
Al-Andalus Living Museum
The three floors of
the Tower offer us a
tour through the
history of the city to
discover the culture,
customs and
traditions of the
people during Al-
Andalus, one of the
greatest Empires in
the Middle Ages (711
to 1492).
We can admire
models of the
Mosque of Cordoba
and other important
monuments in Andalusia such as the Alhambra of
Granada. At the end of the visit we can enjoy magnificent views from
the battlements of the Tower: the Guadalquivir River, the Roman
Bridge and the Mosque.
In a nutshell, this Museum is an incredible place where East and West
come together.
Bullfighting Museum
The history of Andalusia cannot be understood without bullfights
“Toreo” in Spanish. In some rural areas of Andalusia bullfighting still
plays a very important role in generating huge economic benefits:
farmers, transporters, veterinarians…
The fight between a bull and a man has been a constant in the
Mediterranean culture since centuries ago. But unfortunately, over
the years this tradition has only been preserved in Spain, Portugal
and small areas of Italy and France.
Bullfighting has fierce detractors but also illustrious defenders: the
great poet Federico Garcia Lorca called it "authentic religious drama",
others artists such as Goya, Picasso and Edouard Manet have been
Courtyard (Museum of Fine Arts)
Address: Plaza del Potro 1
Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free Admission
Opening Hours: Tuesday: 14:30-20:30 / Wednesday-Saturday:
09:00-20:30 / Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09:00-14:30
Monday closed
Address: Plaza del Potro
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: 09:30-14:30 & 16:30-19:00
Inn of the Colt (Flamenco Cultural Center
Fosforito)
CORDOBA
Address: Plaza de la Agrupacion de Cofradias 2
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (11:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:00)
Sunday (11:00-14:00) Monday Closed
Address: Calahorra Tower (Puente Romano s/n)
Prices: General 4,5€ / Reduced 3€ / Multivision Slideshow 1,2€
(estimated duration: 2 hours)
Opening Hours: From 1st Oct to 30th Apr (10:00-18:00) / From 1st
May to 30th Sept (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:30)
Cairuan Street

also staunch defenders of bullfighting and even many of their works
included bullfighting motifs.
Some of the most important bullfighters in history were born in
Cordoba (Manolete, Machaquito or Lagartijo). They all have a
special place in the Museum.
At the same time, visitors can enjoy interesting stories, photographs,
costumes or bullfighting items as capotes, banderillas, monteras...
It is well worth a visit. If you want to extend your knowledge of the
world of bullfighting, visit the fantastic Los Califas Bullring, one of the
best in Spain. The Museum is temporarily closed.
Diocesan Museum
This wonderful Museum is located in the Episcopal Palace which was
built between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Formerly, this
area was occupied by the old Muslim Alcazar, the official residence of
the Caliph. When Christian troops conquered the city, this beautiful
palace was built to house the headquarters of the Catholic Church in
Cordoba. The Museum houses a wonderful collection of tapestries,
paintings, sculptures dating from the Middle Ages. In the courtyard
there is an elephant-shaped sculpture dating from Muslim times.
Madinat al-Zahra Museum
The Museum was opened in 2009 by Queen of Spain. Shortly after
the inauguration, the
Museum received the Aga
Khan Award for
Architecture (2010), one of
the most prestigious in the
Arab world.
This amazing Museum
houses pieces found in
Madinat al-Zahra Palatine
City (built by the Caliph
Abderraman III in the tenth
century). The magnificent
collection of Islamic Art is one of the most complete in Europe. But
the most precious piece of the entire Museum is, without doubt, the
little bronze deer found in Madinat al-Zahra which is considered one
of the most beautiful icons of Islamic Art during the Middle Ages.
Experts consider that this small sculpture was part of a fountain with
other fawns. For now, two more have been found: one of them is in
the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid and the other one is
exhibited in the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar.
At the same time there is a special room where visitors can watch a
magnificent documentary about Madinat al-Zahra that reproduces
the city and talks about its glorious past. Highly recommended!
Finally, the Museum is complemented by a great library, a cafeteria
and a bookstore with hundreds of books about the archaeological
site of Madinat al-Zahra.
For centuries, Cordoba has been the birthplace of great poets and
writers that marked a before and after in Spanish Literature. Perhaps
the romanticism of the whitewashed streets, the flowers or the
beauty of the Mosque-Cathedral have had some influence in all of
them.
Lucano (39-65)
Lucano lived in an era in which Cordoba was an important city of the
Roman Empire. When he was 21 years, Lucano received the
consideration of "poet laureate". Unfortunately, the Emperor Nero,
who was also a poetry lover, was very jealous and decided to start a
campaign to discredit Lucano. But he did not resign himself and
became a staunch critic of Nero. According to historians, Lucano
participated in the attempted assassination of the Emperor.
As a result of this conspiracy he was sentenced to death. Shortly
after, Lucano decided to end his life rather than die cruelly.
Ibn Zaydun (1003-1071)
He is considered as the greatest poet of Al-Andalus. His beautiful love
letters written for Wallada, an Arab princess, are really romantic and
passionate. Unfortunately, he was accused of a crime and was
sentenced to live in exile. Several years after, he was pardoned and
allowed to return to Al-Andalus where he worked for the Caliph and
his ministers.
Juan de Mena (1411 1456)
Unfortunately, Juan de Mena became an orphan when he was still a
child. When he was 23 he went to Salamanca to complete his studies.
At that time the University of Salamanca was one of the most
important in Europe. Shortly after, Juan de Mena became friend with
Cardinal Torquemada and went to live in Italy for a long period of
time. Back in Spain, Juan de Mena combined positions of great
responsibility with the literary production: during this time, he wrote
his most famous work, The Labyrinth of Fortune (1444).Finally he
died in Torrelaguna (Madrid) in 1456 for reasons not yet clarified.
Luis de Gongora (1561-1627)
He was one of the best poets of the Spanish Golden Age, a period of
flourishing in arts and literature. Gongora was the son of a wealthy
family, which allowed him to receive a good education in the best
schools and universities. When he was a teenager, he moved to
Salamanca where he studied in the University. A couple of years
after, he graduated and became a canon. During many years his
literary production was prolific, gaining harsh detractors and staunch
defenders. One of his best works was Solitudes (1613). Gongora
became very famous in Spain, to the point that King Felipe II
appointed him Royal Chaplain. In
1627 Gongora went back to Cordoba
where he lived in conditions of
extreme poverty. Finally he died of
apoplexy few months later.
Ricardo Molina (1914-1968) studied
at the University of Seville where he
majored in History and Geography.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936-
1939) Ricardo Molina interrupted his
studies and enlisted in the army.After
the war, Ricardo Molina (founder of
the literary magazine “Cantico”)
worked as a teacher. At the same
time, he combined his work with
his passion for Flamenco.
To be more precise, Antonio Gala (1930) was not born in Cordoba
but in Ciudad Real. When he was a child his family moved to Cordoba
where he wrote his first books. After graduating from University,
Antonio Gala lived in Portugal and Italy. Over the years, Antonio Gala
has been awarded multiples times, reaping great success and
popularity in the whole country, especially in his adoptive hometown.
Address: Plaza de Maimonides
Prices: General 4€ / Friday Free Admission
Opening Hours: (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-18:30) Sundays (09:30-14:30)
Monday Closed
Address: Calle Torrijos 12
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday (09:30-13:30 & 15:30-17:30) /
July and August: 09:00-15:00 / Saturday afternoon and Sunday
closed
Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free admission
th
September to 30
th
April (10:00 – 18:30) /
From 1
st
May to 15
th
September (10:00-20:30)
Madinat al-Zahra
Ricardo Molina when visited
Bodegas Campos Restaurant
CORDOBA
Poetic Cordoba

Hydraulic Museum & Interpretation Center
of the Guadalquivir River
In the past, this nice building housed one of the mills of the city
(Cordoba had eleven mills). Here the wheat was processed into flour
by water power. In the sixteenth century were built three rooms that
were used as fulling mill: the clothes were subjected to a process
which involved the cleansing of cloth to eliminate oils, dirt etc. and
making it thicker.
Today, thanks to intensive improvement works, visitors can enjoy this
interesting Museum. The different rooms show the multiple uses of
water throughout history, from antiquity to the present, as well as
the operation of hydraulic mills.
At the top of the building, we can admire a panoramic view of the
river and the Mosque.
Do not forget to visit the ground floor; here the wheat was milled
into flour. Later it was transported to the city where was sold.
Inquisition Museum
This Museum, located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, is dedicated
entirely to the European Inquisition and especially to Spanish
Inquisition.
For those of you who may not know, the Spanish Inquisition was
extremely cruel and one of the most powerful in Europe: the trials in
many cases lacked of foundation and were often based on economic
interests. During these trials inmates were subjected to horrible
torture to extract “confessions”.
The five rooms of the Museum exhibit all kinds of weapons, torture
devices, information about judicial processes etc.
A really unique experience you cannot miss.
Viana Palace Museum
If you visit Cordoba and you are interested in discovering the
tradition of courtyards (patios), this is your place.
Thanks to the initiative of the bank BBK-Caja Sur (owner of the
building) visitors can discover the details and secrets behind these
beautiful Andalusian patios. The Palace (fifteenth century) offers a
guided tour through twelve interconnected courtyards and a
beautiful garden (1200 square meters).
The origin of this tradition dates back to Roman and Muslim times:
the houses were built around a large courtyard where neighbors and
families gathered to chat and get some fresh air. At the same time,
many houses had their own well and a community bathroom for use
by all residents. Some of the most beautiful courtyards are: Patio de
los Gatos, Patio de las Rejas (one of the most luxurious), Patio de la
Madama, Patio de las Columnas, Patio de la Cancela and Patio del
Pozo.
Flamenco
Your visit to Spain will never be complete if you don’t let yourself be
seduced by Flamenco, a musical style full of passion, fire and feeling.
Some experts believe that the word Flamenco comes from an ancient
language spoken in Andalusia between the ninth and the
seventeenth century. This lost language was called "Andalusi" and
had its roots in the Arabic language: according to this theory,
Flamenco comes from the word "fellah min gueir ard" which was
used to designate those peasants who had no land and lived in very
poor conditions. This minority had real difficulties in integrating into
society and lived with gypsies. Over the years, it is believed that the
Flamenco genre emerged in small towns and agricultural villages of
Andalusia during the eighteenth century. In November 2010
Flamenco was inscribed in UNESCO's Representative List of the
Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This is what UNESCO says about flamenco:
“Flamenco is an artistic expression fusing song (“cante”), dance
(“baile”) and musicianship (“toque”). Andalusia in southern Spain is
the heartland of Flamenco, although it also has roots in regions such
as Murcia and Extremadura. “Cante” is the vocal expression of
flamenco, sung by men and women, preferably seated, with no
backing singers. The gamut of feelings and states of mind – grief, joy,
tragedy, rejoicing and fear – can be expressed through sincere,
expressive lyrics characterized by brevity and simplicity.
Flamenco “baile” is a dance of passion, courtship, expressing a wide
range of situations ranging from sadness to joy. The technique is
complex, differing depending on whether the performer is male
(heavier use of the feet) or female (gentler, more sensual
movements). “Toque” or the art of guitar playing has long surpassed
its original role as accompaniment. Other instruments, including
castanets, hand-clapping and foot-stamping are also employed.
Flamenco is
performed
during religious
festivals, rituals,
church
ceremonies and
at private
celebrations. It is
the badge of
identity of
numerous
communities and
groups, in
particular the
Gitano (Roma) ethnic community, which has played
an essential role in its development. Transmission occurs through
dynasties, families, social groups and Flamenco clubs, all of which
play a key role in its preservation and dissemination”.
As a curious fact, Flamenco is hugely popular in Asia, especially in
Japan where there are many Flamenco clubs and dance schools.
Flamenco Shows
As part of our itinerary, we would like to mention some of the best
places in Cordoba to enjoy a Flamenco evening.
Probably, the two most popular shows frequented by tourists are
Flamenco Show El Cardenal and Meson de la Buleria:
 Flamenco Show El Cardenal
Sunday closed
Price: From 20 € (drink included)
Approximate Duration: One hour and a half
This Flamenco Club was built in a beautiful sixteenth
century building, which is located just meters away from
the Mosque.
Address: Paseo de la Ribera s/n
Prices: General 2€/ Reduced 1.30€
Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 Guided Tours from 09:45
CORDOBA
Address: Calle Manriquez 1
Prices: 3€ / Children under 10 Free Admission
Opening Hours: Open every day from 11:00 to 20:30
Address: Plaza de Don Gomez, 2
Prices: Guided Tour 8€ / Only Courtyards 5€
st
July to 31
st
(09:00-15:00) / From 1
st
Sept to 30 Jun (10:00-19:00) Saturday & Sunday (10:00-15:00)
Monday Closed
Tablao Flamenco

El Cardenal
offers a unique
experience
thanks to the
contribution of
great
Flamenco
artists,
recognized
nationally and
internationally.
At the same
time, the show
brings together
the most
popular styles
of Flamenco
(Solea,
Bulerias,
Alegrías or
Fandangos).
During the summer, they use the wonderful courtyards for
performances. Without doubt, it is a highly recommended
visit.
 Flamenco Show Meson de la Buleria
Address: Calle Pedro Lopez 3
Price: From 15€ (drinks included) / 40€ (show & dinner)
Approximate Duration: One hour
Popular Flamenco show located near the beautiful
Corredera Square, very close to downtown.
Each evening tourists can enjoy live performances
accompanied by food and drink.
This elegant building, designed in Andalusian traditional
style, belonged to a popular Spanish bullfighter, called
Guerrita. The facility has capacity for hundred people so it
is ideal for large groups.
Perhaps the negative note is that the Restaurant is usually
crowded with tour groups, losing the essence of Flamenco.
 Flamenco Show Arte y Sabores de Cordoba
Address: Calle Velázquez Bosco, 10
Price: 30€ (dinner and show)
Approximate Duration: One hour
In the heart of the Jewish Quarter, just few minutes walking
from the Mosque, we can find this great Flamenco show.
Dinner is composed of tasty rice prepared in traditional
style “arroz campero”. At the same time, we can enjoy
Montilla-Moriles wine which is produced in the province of
Cordoba and has been awarded worldwide.
After the dinner, an elegant and pure Flamenco show
starred by local young artists begins.
 La Pataita de Antonio Tablao
Address: Calle Barroso 3
Price: 18€ (drinks included)
This small Flamenco Tavern was recently inaugurated on
Barroso Street. The tavern has a whitewashed Andalusian
courtyard where performances take place. Its location
between the old town and Tendillas Square is simply
perfect for tourists.
At the same time, La Pataita de Antonio is an ideal place to
enjoy excellent tapas and locally produced wine.
If you want to enjoy a pure Flamenco Show with all the passion of
Andalusia, we recommend visiting clubs and Flamenco bars
(“peñas”), places full of tradition.
The performances are in many cases spontaneous and do not follow
a schedule so we cannot tell you for sure when and at what time will
be the shows. Ask your receptionist to call to be sure.
 Tavern Casa Salinas
(Address: Puerta de Almodovar s / n )
Some days a week spontaneous Flamenco shows are staged
here. The bar offers traditional and really delicious dishes.
 Tavern Las Beatillas
(Address: Plaza de las Beatilla 1)
Occasionally Flamenco shows are performed by amateur
singers who come to this tavern to enjoy a pleasant
evening. Nice home-made food: they specialize in game
meat although you can also taste different varieties of fish
such as the popular Fritura (variety of fried fish) and Japuta
(fried marinated fish).
Finally, we cannot forget that every three years Cordoba becomes
the world capital of Flamenco thanks to the National Flamenco Art
Contest, which is one of the most prestigious in Spain.
Flamenco Dress
Flamenco dress in Andalusia means a combination of tradition and
innovation. At the same time, we can say that Flamenco dress is the
most characteristic visual element of Flamenco.
To find the origins of the Flamenco outfit we have to go back to
Seville in the nineteenth century: The Cattle Fair in Seville, the
biggest one in Andalusia, brought together thousands of people,
gypsy and non-gypsy, rich and poor. They all danced, drank and
celebrated with uproar. The wives of cattle dealers (gypsy many of
them) wore comfortable, colorful and frilly dresses that embellished
the woman and made her sexier. Gradually, the wives of wealthy
merchants felt seduced by these beautiful dresses worn by gypsy
woman and began to adapt them to the fashion of the nineteenth
century. Over the years, the Cattle Fair lost its commercial side and
became the current Seville April Fair.
We go deeper into the knowledge of Flamenco Culture.
The Spanish guitar, which was introduced in Spain by the Arabs in the
middle Ages, is a basic instrument for the Flamenco Music. Without
this guitar nothing would be the same and probably Flamenco
wouldn’t exist.
From a musical point of view, its sound is unmistakable (brighter
sound) and its execution is easier and faster. In addition, craftsmen
use different kind of woods in comparison with classical guitars,
which also helps to create that unique sound.
Another feature of these guitars is the pickguard against scratches as
in Flamenco beating the wood fraction as percussion is very common.
Traditionally, Cordoba has been an important center of production of
these Guitars: the city is full of craft workshops (“guitarrerías”)
where these guitars are made, using old techniques like in the in the
eighteenth century. Undoubtedly, it is really interesting to see how
they work. Some of these “guitarrerias” are located in downtown:
• Juan Montero (Address: Calle Goya, 23)
• Hermanos Peña Guitarreros (Address: Plaza del Potro 15)
• Jose Rodriguez Peña (Address: Calle San Pablo, 10)
• Manuel Reyes Maldonado (Address: Calle Armas, 4).
The Spanish Guitar
CORDOBA

Slowly, gypsy dress were evolving and transforming until today.
Parallel to this evolution, gypsy clothes were spread throughout
Andalusia and became the unofficial dress of the regional fairs.
Many tourists, after
admiring the
beautiful dresses
worn by female
Flamenco dancers,
decide to buy one
and take it home as
a souvenir.
In Mundo Guides we
would like to
recommend you
some of the most
popular shops in
Cordoba where you will find everything
you are looking for: from classic designs to modern ones as well as
accessories, fans, ornamental combs…
• Complementos Abril (address: Calle Jesús María 14 & Calle Conde
de Gondomar 5).
• Rosario Roman (address: Garcia Lovera s/n).
 De Colores (address: Calle Jesus Maria).
Flavors of Cordoba
Spanish cuisine is considered as one of the best in the world. Chefs
such as Ferran Adria, Jose Andres and Juan Maria Arzak set trends
and are well known worldwide.
Spanish cuisine can be classified as Mediterranean Gastronomy,
which is extremely healthy: it helps regulate cholesterol levels and is
a major factor in the high life expectancy enjoyed by Spain (more
than eighty years).
In Andalusia, typical dishes, ingredients, flavors, and cookery styles
have inherited elements from all the cultures (Romans, Jews, Arabs
and Christians) that have left their mark on the history of the region.
Andalusian cuisine is based mainly on vegetables, fresh fish and fruit.
The main reason is the weather: due to heat and high temperatures
people need to replenish water and minerals so they eat lots of fruit
and vegetables.
In addition, Spain, together with Portugal, is one of the largest
consumers of fish in the world, more than forty kilos of fish per
person per year and Andalusia is no exception to the rule. The
variety of fish is enormous and endless: japutas, dorada, rosada,
camarones, pez espada, atún, salmón, trucha etc.
Without any doubt, the most typical dish of Cordoba cuisine is
“Salmorejo”, which is a cold tomato cream, ideal for vegetarians. This
cold soup can be accompanied by ham, eggs or green pepper.
The ingredients to cook an authentic “salmorejo” are:
 Tomatoes
 Bread
• Garlic
• Salt
• Cumin
• Extra Virgin Olive oil
Other representative dishes of Cordoba are:
“Rabo de Toro” (Oxtail stew):
It is very appreciated for its taste and creamy meat. In recent years,
this dish is becoming very popular among top chefs in Madrid and
Seville.
Flamenquín:
This is a must-try dish, really tasty, easy to find and cheap.
Flamenquín consists of pork rolled and stuffed with ham. Almost any
bar or restaurant in Cordoba offer this popular dish.
“Tortilla de Patatas” (Spanish Omelet)
It´s maybe one of the most popular dishes in Spain and is
characterized by its
softness and texture.
The ingredients to
cook a genuine
Spanish Omelet are:
eggs and potatoes
fried in olive oil
(onions and peppers
can be added too).
Chronicles say that
this dish was born in
Navarre (North Spain)
in the nineteenth
century: during the Carlist Wars (1833
to 1876), the last major civil war for the throne in Europe, General
Tomas Zumalacárregui created the "tortilla" as an easy, fast and
nutritious dish to feed the Carlist Army. From there it was spread
throughout the country.
If you have decided to try this wonderful dish, we recommend you
one of the most popular places in Cordoba, Bar Santos (address: Calle
Magistal Frances Gonzalez, 3).
“Jamon Serrano” (Spanish Ham)
Travelling to Spain and not to try Spanish Ham can be considered as a
cardinal sin. The hind legs of pork are cured for months in special
places with certain lighting conditions and optimum moisture.
The result, after this long process, is extremely tasty and juicy meat
which is highly appreciated by Spanish people and foreigners.
Despite its high price, it is very popular in Spain, especially at
Christmas when even some companies give away a Spanish Ham to
their employees.
The Roll Royce of hams can be quickly identified by its intense red
meat and flecks of intramuscular fat which is oleic acid. This great
meat is result of feeding pigs naturally. If you want to try one of these
hams, they are known as “Jamon de Bellota”.
Montilla-Moriles Wine
In the south of the province of Cordoba is produced an excellent wine
commercialized under the name Montilla-Moriles.
The conditions of soil, low rainfall and large number of hours of
bright sunshine, over 300 days a year, favour the cultivation of vines.
These wines are characterized by high alcohol content (about 15-20
degrees. Obviously, it is not necessary to add alcohol artificially as it
is in other Spanish regions), high sugar content due to extreme
weather conditions (cold winters and sweltering summers) and an
intense aroma.
We strongly recommend trying Pedro Ximenez which is a delicious
natural sweet wine. Perez Barquero Winery (Montilla) offers a
fantastic tour full of interesting facts, wine tasting etc.
More Information: http://www.perezbarquero.com/
“Caracoles” Snails
With the advent of the first rays of spring sunshine the city is full of
small food stalls where tasty snails are cooked.
At end of the day, thousands of “cordobeses” come to enjoy this local
CORDOBA
Complementos Abril Shop
Gastronomy
Spanish Omelete (Bar Santos)

specialty after work. The snails are served in small glasses with
hot sauce and accompanied by a good cold beer. Generally, these
food stalls have a terrace where customers can sit.
Confectionery
The Arab heritage is quite evident in the Andalusian confectionery:
pastries with almond, honey, "alfajores" or cinnamon are very
popular among “cordobeses”.
“Pastel Cordobes” (Cordoba Cake): It´s undoubtedly the most
popular cake in town. Main ingredients: puff pastry sheet, "cabello de
de angel" (pumpkin marmalade) sugar and cinnamon.
“Manolete”: Similar to Cordoba Cake but smaller.
If you want to try one of these delicious and traditional pastries we
recommend visiting Roldan Bakery (address: intersection between
Gondomar Street and Paseo de la Victoria) and Salazar Patisserie
(address: Ronda de los Tejares Avenue 3).
Drinks
Water
Usually people drink tap water in Cordoba. Its taste is not as bad as in
other Spanish cities, especially in coastal towns.
Anyway if you don’t want to risk we offer you a small selection of
mineral water brands:
• Lanjaron
• Solan de Cabras
• Fuente Liviana
If you like sparkling water you will need to be patient. Normally
people do not drink sparkling water in Spain and it is sometimes
difficult to buy or order it in restaurants.
Beer
Due to high temperatures and the proliferation of bars and terraces,
much beer is consumed in Cordoba.
Although Spain is a major producer and consumer of wine, Spanish
people feel true devotion to beer. The bars compete to serve the
best beer and the waiters carefully polish their technique. In fact
there are real experts who study the inclination of the cup when
pouring, foam density, temperature, etc.
Spanish beers have a higher graduation and their flavor is more
intense than German or Belgian beers. This is the reason why in Spain
the beer is consumed in small glasses “cañas” or often accompanied
by a snack.
Some of the most famous beer brands in Andalusia are Cruzcampo,
Aguila and Alhambra.
How to order a beer?
Order a beer in Spain can be a bit tricky since there are different sizes
and commercial brands.
The most common ways to order a beer are:
• Caña: draft beer served in a small glass 20 cl.
• Tubo: draft beer served in a 33 cl. glass.
• Botellín: beer bottle 25 cl.
•Jarra: draft beer in a 50 cl. glass
Tinto de Verano
It is a drink made with soda, red wine and ice that is very popular
during summer months when people have to handle high suffocating
temperatures in the city.
Practically you can order “tinto de verano” in any bar or restaurant.
Sangría
Popular beverage consumed in Spain and Portugal for several
centuries.
Ingredients:
• Red wine
• Sugar syrup
• Orange juice and lemon juice
• Chopped fruit (peach, apple, pear ...)
• Cinnamon
• Orange soda
• Vermouth and brandy spirits.
In the twentieth century Spanish emigrants took the beverage to
Argentina and others parts of South America where it became very
popular too.
Andalusian Breakfast
Buffet breakfasts are always a good option for those who stay in a
Hotel. However, we recommend you try an authentic Andalusian
breakfast to enrich your stay in this fantastic city.
A typical Andalusian breakfast consists of a "mollete" (typical
Andalusian bun), olive oil, tomato paste and small slices of Spanish
ham. Local people usually accompanies this healthy breakfast with a
“caffé latte” (café con leche) or an orange juice (zumo de naranja).
CORDOBA
The first documented references about olive trees were found in Syria
and Iran, which were two of the most advanced civilizations 6000 years
ago.
From this area of Middle East, the Olive cultivation spread throughout
the Mediterranean (Greece, Egypt, Italy, Croatia ...).
Phoenician civilization brought the olive tree to Andalusia.
The Romans contributed greatly to the expansion and development of
the olive tree. Romans felt devotion by the olive tree to the point that
the nobles wore crowns made of olive branches.
During Al-Andalus, the extraction methods were modernized and
production grew enormously.
In the fifteenth century the olive tree cultivation consolidated and
developed in large areas of Andalusia (Jaen, Cordoba and Seville).
Currently, Andalusia is the largest producer of olive oil in the world. But
don´t think that the olive tree only provides oil, quite the contrary. The
Andalusian people have learned to optimize the use of this incredible
tree:
Olive oil is used to manufacture beauty products. The fruit is eaten after
being marinated and seasoned in many different ways. The leaves are
used as food for sheep. The wood is used in houses to heat during the
harsh winter months and to make quality furniture and handicrafts.
Finally, olive pits and skin are used, after a complex process, as fuel to
produce energy.
Relevant Information & Curious Facts:
Jaen (108 km from Cordoba) produces the highest amount of Olive Oil in
the World. Andalusian Olive Oil is considered by experts as the best in
the World. Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a better quality and is more pure. It
is advisable to consume at room temperature, though is fine for light
cooking too. Andalusian Olive Oil represents about 40% of olive oil sold
in China. The olive oil brand "El Castillo de Canena" is used in the Burj al
Arab Hotel (Dubai), the most luxurious hotel in the world.
Exports of Andalusian Olive Oil to the United States of America have
grown exponentially in the last 5 years.
Olive & Olive Oil

Tapas
“Tapa” in Spanish means
"small portion of food
served with the drink”.
This custom was born in
Andalusia in the nineteenth
century and today has
become a social event in
Spain. Friends, coworkers or
family members gather for a
snack in packed bars right
before lunch or dinner.
“Tapas” can range from
olives or chips to small
tasting dishes that blend
tradition with modernity.
Some bars offer free tapas
when you order a drink
although this is not very
common in Cordoba, unlike
other Spanish cities…
The list can be endless and
depends on the imagination
and creativity of the bar or restaurant.
The most common “tapas” are:
• Lacon (Cured pork)
• Croquettes
• Morcilla (Blood sausage)
• Manchego Cheese
• Ham
• Olives
• Patatas bravas (Potatoes in spicy tomato sauce)
• Prawns
• Salmorejo
• Fried Eggplants with honey
• Spanish Omelet
• Almonds
• Russian Salad
• Squids Fried in Butter
• Anchovy
• Chorizo (Highly-seasoned pork sausage)
• “Pinchitos” (Marinade Pork)
Tapas Bar
Bar Círculo Taurino
Address: Calle Manuel María Arcona, 1
Very popular tavern which is frequented by bullfighting fans.
Andalusian wine, beer, olives and hunks of cheese, among other
“tapas” comprise the variety of dishes in this pleasant “tapas” bar.
The tavern is small, cramped, and full of bullfighting memorabilia
from the floor to the ceiling.
Casa Rubio
Address: Puerta de Almódovar 5
Open the door and immerse yourself in this traditional “tapas” bar.
Rooms are partially covered with Andalusian tiles, creating a special
atmosphere. Don´t miss the leafy inner courtyard with iron tables
which is simply charming.
Sociedad Plateros
Address: Calle San Francisco 6
Sociedad Plateros is one of the oldest taverns in Cordoba (1872). This
area of the city was once the neighborhood where the silversmiths
lived and worked. This tavern was founded by the craftsmen to help
with its income to the silversmiths who had to shut down their
business. Traditional “tapas” served in a unique atmosphere full of
history.
El Juramento
Address: Calle Juramento 6
El Juramento Tapas Bar, located near Corredera Square, has an
excellent reputation built on 100 years of serving great food and
excellent wine. In short, it´s a highly recommended place to sample
the local gastronomy.
Taberna Casa Salinas
Address: Puerto de Almodóvar s/n
This is another bar with a unique atmosphere in Cordoba: glasses of
sherry and plates of freshly made “tapas” as well as spicy Andalusian
sausages hung from the ceiling and buckets of olives.
In fair weather we can enjoy a romantic Andalusian courtyard.
Occasionally spontaneous Flamenco shows are staged here.
La Copla
Address: Calle Infanta Maria
Taurine Tavern where you can enjoy excellent local wine and
homemade “tapas”. The atmosphere is friendly and familiar.
The “taurine” decoration is quite nice. Without a doubt, it´s a very
unique place in Cordoba.
Casa Andres
Address: Avenida de Cervantes 4
You cannot leave Cordoba without tasting its excellent “potaje”
(vegetable and cod stew). This dish is very popular during Good
Friday when Christians honor the death of Jesus and do not eat meat.
Free “Tapas” with every beer.
Casa Malacara
Address: Puerta de
Almodovar
Nice typical tavern
specialized in
delicious “tapas”.
We highly
recommend you try
“pollo malacara”
(malacara-style
chicken) or the
Spanish omelet.
In summer you can
have a drink on the terrace.
Pleasant atmosphere, friendly service and fair price!
El Aguacero
Address: Plaza de San Miguel
Delicious homemade cuisine represented by typical dishes such as
“patatas a lo pobre” (French fries accompanied by meat, sausages
and fried eggs), “salmorejo” (cold tomato cream) or “Rabo de toro”
(oxtail stew). The service is very attentive and friendly.
You will have a great memory of Cordoba by visiting this “tapas” bar.
El Blason
Address: Jose Zorrilla 11
El Blason, located behind the Gran Teatro (Gran Theatre), is one of
the most popular in Cordoba. Its cuisine boasts a unique blend of
modernity and tradition with excellent results.
Upstairs there is a restaurant and the ground floor has been designed
as “tapas” bar.
CORDOBA
Casa Malacarra
Tapas

The only downside is the price, a little bit higher than others “tapas”
bars in the area.
Bar Santos
Address: Calle Magistal Gonzalez Frances 3
Tiny bar located in front of the Mosque.
Since its inauguration in 1966, this bar is famous by great and huge
Spanish omelets (they can weigh more than 4 kilos/9 pounds).
In addition to Spanish Omelets you can taste other typical dishes as
“salmorejo” or oxtail.
Salmorejeria Umami
Address: Calle Blanco Belmonte 6
Umami is a wonderful place to enjoy one of the most typical dishes in
Cordoba, “salmorejo”.
Here you can taste
countless “salmorejos”
made of different
ingredients:
mushrooms, avocado,
wasabi, sweet
salmorejo etc. (30
different types).
Umami is a huge
advocate of organic
products. The best
evidence of this is its
own Menu: the client can even choose what
type of ecological tomatoes wants for his salad.
In short, excellent service and gourmet dishes.
Restaurants
Cordoba is a city with an excellent gastronomy which has great
Arabic influence. Muslim presence in the Iberian Peninsula lasted
more than 700 years (711-1492) leaving an indelible mark on the
language, clothing, customs, cuisine etc.
The most traditional dishes are Oxtail, Salmorejo and Flamenquín, so
it won´t be difficult to find a place where to taste these delicacies of
Cordoba cuisine. When choosing a restaurant we recommend
following a basic rule: choose restaurants where there are many
Spanish clients, especially in old town. This will ensure good prices
and good food.
 Opening Hours
Traditionally in Spain lunch and dinner are really very late compared
to other European countries: Spanish families tend to have lunch
between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm and dinner is served from 09:30 pm to
10:30 pm. About 1:00 pm “Cordobeses” crowd the bars, eating
traditional "tapas" before lunch and drinking local wines. At the end
of the afternoon is also an ideal time to enjoy "tapas" between 07:30
pm and 9:00 pm. Usually restaurants begin to serve lunch
approximately from 1:00 pm-1:30 pm and dinners from 08:30 pm-
9:00 pm. If you want to eat before this time, you always have the
option of eating in fast food restaurants or others well-known
restaurant franchises.
 Prices
Before entering, you can check the price level of the restaurant and
avoid embarrassing situations when paying. Restaurants are forced to
place boards where you can check the menu. Take a look!
“Menu del Dia” is a great option to save some money on your trip to
Spain. For a fixed price (approximately 9€-12€) some restaurants
offer first and second dish, drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Ask the
waiter if they have “Menu del día”.
Almost all the restaurants in old town accept credit cards: VISA,
MasterCard and American Express are the most common.
 Reserve
Normally there is no need to book a table in advance. But on
weekends the city is full of tourists and can be a bit tricky to find a
table in your restaurant. A call few hours before is enough.
The Hotel Receptionist can make the reservation without problem
while you are visiting the city.
 Etiquette
Generally there is no dress code, especially in old town. Restaurants
are accustomed to tourists and their casual clothes.
 Taxes & Tips
Check the bill: VAT is 10% and it must be included in the price marked
on the menu and clearly shown on the bill.
Tips are not mandatory. Generally people do not leave tips in Spain. If
you are happy with the service, 5%-10% will be well received by the
waiter.
Restaurante Casa Rubio €€
Address: Puerta Almodovar, 5
Restaurant Casa Rubio offers enviable views of the old city wall. On
the ground floor there is a bar, which is great to take some economic
Andalusian “tapas”. On the upper floors we find the restaurant: here
atmosphere is much more classical and dishes are more elaborated.
Chefs offer a delicious and surprising combination of Sephardic (old
Spanish Jews) and Andalusian cuisine.
Restaurante Bodegas Campos €€€
Address: Calle Los Lineros, 32
This restaurant is a gastronomic symbol in the city and is famous for
being frequented by actors, writers, politicians and other celebrities.
You will enjoy modern Andalusian cuisine with perfectly prepared
dishes and using highest quality ingredients.
Some gastronomic experts describe its cuisine as natural and
authentic.
El Bandolero €€
El Bandolero Restaurant, located only few meters from the Mosque,
allows us to enjoy a very unique view, really romantic.
Specialties include: cod salad with orange or steak stuffed with ham
and asparagus.
The entire Menu is based on the culinary tradition of Romans, Arabs,
Jews and Christians but always keeping in mind that innovation is
essential.
Restaurante Choco €€
Address: Calle Compositor Serrano Lucena
The humble Fuensanta neighborhood hides one of the most
interesting modern restaurants in Cordoba (recently awarded a
Michelin Star).
Owned by the Garcia family, the young Chef Kisko performs
innovative cuisine that blends traditional and modern flavors. The
restaurant offers both a seasonal menu and a tasting menu.
Restaurante Casa Pepe La Juderia €€
Adress: Calle Romero 1
You can taste the most typical dishes of Cordoba cuisine and
simultaneously, have a great time in the magnificent restaurant
courtyard. Do not leave this wonderful restaurant without tasting the
mouthwatering eggplant fingers with molasses, which is an Arabic-
inspired dish.
Salmorejeria Umami
CORDOBA
Restaurant Price Key
High Class €€€ (Over 30€)
Mid-Budget €€ (20-30€)
Low Price € (Less than 20€)

Specialties: Carpaccio sturgeon with ice-cold gazpacho, Sephardic
Lamb.
Restaurante El Blason €€
Address: Calle Jose Zorrilla 11
Meat dishes stand out above all others in this restaurant: original
game meat recipes such as partridge and raspberry salad or high
quality pork and beef coming from Pedroches, an excellent livestock
area located in the North of the province of Cordoba.
The menu also includes traditional dishes prepared with care and
following the original cookbook: salmorejo cream or oxtail.
Booking is advisable.
Restaurante El Caballo Rojo €€€
Famous restaurant frequented by artists, athletes and politicians and
considered as one of the best in town.
This restaurant has the privilege of being located just in front of the
Mosque of Cordoba, which ensures a special atmosphere.
The cuisine blends traditional food with innovation.
Specialties: Lamb with honey, salad Sephardic Oxtail.
Taberna San Miguel Casa El Pisto €€
Address: Calle Plaza de San Miguel 1
This tavern has been located in the heart of the city (near Tendillas
Square) more than
hundred years.
“Cordobeses” know
very well this place
and have placed it in a
significant position on
the current
gastronomic scene.
Leaving Cordoba
without tasting
Salmorejo here can be
a big mistake!
Interior decoration
will amaze you: full of
old Andalusian
pictures, traditional
hats, Flamenco
posters etc.
Specialties: Salmorejo
and Orange with cod.
Restaurante El Churrasco €€€
Address: Calle Romero 16
Wonderful restaurant located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, a
neighborhood full of history and legends.
Its cuisine has always been distinguished for its seasonal ingredients,
which are always fresh and top quality: meat, seafood and
vegetables.
Olive oil is an key factor in this restaurant too. They offer a menu of
olive oils from various parts of Andalusia.
Recently, the owners have opened a small boutique hotel near the
Restaurant.
Cafetin Halal Islamic Culture Center €
Address: Calle Rey Heredia 28
If you are Muslim or you're just a fan of Arabic food, this restaurant is
a great option. Enjoy traditional dishes prepared with local
ingredients at a reasonable price.
Great location and friendly service.
Restaurant Hammam €€
Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 51
Do you want to enjoy a true old Arab restaurant and feel the magic
of Al-Andalus? If the answer is yes, this is your restaurant: here you
can enjoy an excellent fusion of Spanish and Muslim cuisine with
magnificent results that will satisfy the most demanding palates.
The decor takes us back to the tenth century: beautiful walls,
chandeliers and old Andalusian music.
Specialties: lamb couscous, fish tagine.
If you have time, enjoy the hammam (Arab bath) on the ground
floor!
Restaurante La Viuda €€
Address: Calle San Basilio 52
La Viuda is,
without a doubt,
one of the most
recommended
restaurants in the
old town: haute
cuisine fused with
traditional flavors,
always using fresh
products from
Andalusia.
Specialties:
eggplant fingers
with honey,
scrambled eggs
with cod, flamenquines with homemade cheese.
Another point to note is the magnificent interior decoration.
Restaurante San Basilio €€
The restaurant is located just five minutes walking from the Mosque.
Therefore it is an ideal place to eat after a long day of sightseeing.
San Basilio Restaurant has a great and typical Andalusian courtyard
that will make you feel the true atmosphere of old Arab houses.
All the products come from the province of Cordoba. Dishes are
carefully prepared by expert hands. Service is friendly, clean and
fast. We recommend you take a glass of Moriles Montilla wine,
excellent wine produced in Cordoba.
International Restaurants
Italian Restaurants
Restaurant Taglatella €€
Address: Calle Jesus y Maria 6
Italian Restaurant
located in the
center of Cordoba,
just 100 meters
from Tendillas
Square.
The restaurant
boasts traditional
Italian cuisine:
pastas, risottos,
pizzas, lasagna,
gnocchi etc.
The decor is a bit
baroque. Red burgundy is the dominant color
which creates an unparalleled atmosphere.
Service is also very good and fast.
O Mamma Mia €
Address: Calle Reyes Catolicos 5
CORDOBA
La Viuda Restaurant
San Miguel Casa El Pisto
Taglatella Restaurant

La Bambola €
Address: Shopping Mall El Tablero
Amore Bonapasta €
Pizzaiolo €
Address: Calle San Felipe 5
Oh La Pizzeria €
Address: Calle de Concepcion 8
Asian Restaurants
Sakura €€
Sakura Wok €€
Address: Avenida Andalucia 7
Tokyo €€
Address: Calle Manuel Cuellar
Indian Restaurants
Handi Rotti €€
Address: Shopping Mall El Zoco
Not far from downtown you will find the best Indian Restaurant in
Cordoba, a cuisine that is currently in vogue worldwide.
The restaurant offers a great variety of dishes with different Indian
sauces. Curiously, they also prepare Chinese food with an Indian
touch. If you come with children do not worry, the restaurant has a
kids menu.
Taj Mahal €€
Address: Calle Azorin 4
Fast Food Restaurants
American Foster Hollywood €
Address: Calle Rafael de la Hoz Arderius 4
Burger King €
Address: Calle Concepcion 12
McDonalds €
Address: Avd del Brillante s/n
Address: Shopping Mall El Arcangel
Domino´s Pizza €
Address: Plaza Colon 29
Brutus Cordoba €
Address: Entertainment Centre El Tablero
Cerveceria Cien Montaditos €
Address: Plz San Miguel 3
Address: Avd Gran Capitan 29
Chefbuffet €
Address: Calle Cardenal Gonzalez 63
ordoba is a city with a large selection of hotels: from incredible
rooms in old palaces around the Jewish Quarter to modern
design hotels in downtown.
In Mundo Guides will try to give you a helping hand in finding the
best accommodation to fit your needs.
Symbol Key
Hotel Price Key
These prices are approximate and off season. During high season,
prices s. Better book early.
High Class €€€
Hospes Palacio del Bailio
Address: Calle Ramírez de las Casas Deza, 10-12
This hotel is located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, surrounded
by small traditional whitewashed houses and cobbled streets.
All the services of a 5 Star Hotel at your disposal: great facilities, pool,
spa, beautiful gardens, bellboy, valet etc.
One of the main attractions for guests is the beautiful Spanish-Arabic
decoration.
In short, this Hotel is a perfect place to relax and make a journey back
to the past.
AC Cordoba Palacio Hotel by Marriott
Address: Paseo de la Victoria, s / n
This magnificent hotel is situated on Victoria Avenue, just 10 minutes’
walk from the Mosque, and belongs to Marriott (the North American
Company has two Hotels in Cordoba) which is a guarantee of
satisfaction: excellent service and the best facilities in the city.
Enjoy the lovely and wonderful swimming pool on the flat roof, the
C
CORDOBA
Where to Stay
€€€ High Class: Over 200€
€€ Mid-Budget: from 50€ to 100€
€ Low Price: Less tan 50€

views are breathtaking.
The building's design created a great debate and polemic in the city:
its striking appearance did not please everyone in the same way.
Despite everything, recently the building has received an award as
the second Europe's most modern hotel and the sixth most modern
in the world. Without doubt a matter of controversy!
Mid-Budget €€
Hotel Cordoba Center
Address: Avd de la Libertad 4
Cordoba Center Hotel is located in the trendiest area of Cordoba. This
wide Avenue was built about 10 years ago and has become one of
the most exclusive and expensive parts of the city: the area is full of
business hotels, cafes, bars, cocktail lounges and restaurants.
The hotel is 30 minutes away from the Old Town and barely 5
minutes’ walk from the new Railway Station.
Modern design and wonderful facilities: On the 7
th
floor there is a
swimming pool which offers amazing views of the city. The rooms are
spacious, comfortable and with natural light.
Take a look at the façade! At night the façade illumination is changing
from one color to another, creating a beautiful visual effect.
AC Cordoba Hotel by Marriott
Address: Avd de la Libertad 24
AC Cordoba is the second Hotel run by Marriott in Cordoba. The
Hotel is situated opposite the Train Station and 30 minutes by feet
from the Old Town. It is the best option if you have to travel by train
the next day early in the morning.
The Hotel offers an ultramodern style, super quality and full comfort
for guests.
Hotel Conquistador
Address: Calle Magistral González Francés, 15-17
This is possibly the best location in Cordoba, just opposite the Great
Mosque, one of the icons of the city.
If you decide to stay here the atmosphere will take you back several
centuries to Al-Andalus times, when Muslims controlled much of
Spain. The hotel boasts a traditional Andalusian style with lovely
patios, fountains and flowers, which invade every corner with
fragrance and colors. The beautiful courtyard is used by clients to
have a drink or chat quietly after a long day visiting the Old Town.
Rooms are comfortable and functional. No frills.
NH Amistad Cordoba
Address: Plaza de Maimonides 3
This hotel is located in an eighteenth century house in the heart of
the Jewish Quarter, just a few minutes stroll to the Mosque.
Hotel design is classic and elegant: nice patios, stone walls, tiled
floors etc.
Rooms are spacious and comfortably equipped. In addition, they are
designed with a contemporary concept suitable for the most
demanding guests.
Upstairs there is a small pool to refresh after a hot day visiting the
city.
Eurostars Maimonides
Elegant hotel located in front of the Mosque. In fact the rooms have
unique views of this Arab monument which was built in the eighth
century. The hotel is decorated in a traditional Andalusian way: we
would like to mention the beautiful courtyard where guests can enjoy
a nice dinner listening to the sound of water from the romantic and
relaxing fountain.
The Congress Palace and the Roman Bridge are only few minutes
away walking.
Hesperia Cordoba
Address: Calle Fray Albino 1
From this hotel you can enjoy one of the best views of Cordoba
skyline. Hesperia Hotel is located on the other side of the river
allowing us to enjoy incredible views of the Mosque, the Roman
Bridge and the Fortress of Christian Kings. Plus, the Guadalquivir River
also has something to show and surprises us with its rich flora and
fauna: this part of the river was declared Natural Monument by the
Andalusian Government.
The hotel has modern and magnificent facilities. In fact, this great
hotel is frequented by soccer teams and other athletes when they
visit Cordoba.
On a sunny day you can take a swim in the pool on the top floor of
the building!
Hacienda Posada de Vallina
Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda, 83
Old Andalusian house converted into a luxurious hotel which still
retains many original features of the building: stone walls, wooden
ceiling beams, original arches etc.
Its location cannot be better, just in front of the Mosque.
Rooms are spacious and very comfortable.
This building has been used as a hotel since the Middle Ages. Its
location, near a major thoroughfare and very close from the Fortress
of the Christian Kings (Alcazar), allows us to say that it was one of the
most important hotels in Spain. Influential people, ambassadors,
wealthy bankers or businessmen were among its guests: historians
believe that Christopher Columbus was stayed here where today is
the room 205.
Arab Baths Hostel
Address: Calle Almanzor 18
Small cozy hotel with seven rooms located in the Jewish Quarter, just
several minutes on foot from the Mosque.
The hotel has a traditional Muslim-Spanish décor which will take us
back to the 10
th
century when the Muslim civilization controlled the
Iberian Peninsula.
The real amazing point about this hotel is the magnificent Arab Baths
(free for guests). Here you can enjoy different pools (cold, warm,
hot), Turkish bath, solarium, massages and body treatments.
Hotel Boston
Address: Calle Malaga 2
Classic hotel located on the most popular square of Cordoba, Las
Tendillas, which is an ideal place for shopping. Near Tendillas Square
there are plenty of shopping streets, boutiques, restaurants,
fashionable cafes, El Corte Ingles Department Store etc.
The hotel was recently renovated and equipped with all comfort.
Rooms are bright and spacious.
CORDOBA

If you decide to visit the old part of town you will only have to walk
10 minutes.
Ayre Hotel Cordoba
Address: Calle Poeta Alonso Bonilla, 3
The hotel is located 20-25 minutes’ drive from the city center, right at
the foot of Sierra Morena Mountains.
This great hotel, surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains,
offers incomparable panoramic views of Cordoba.
The hotel facilities are modern, luxurious and well equipped
(solarium, tennis court, outdoor pool etc.). Rooms are spacious,
bright and stylishly furnished. Guests can have lunch on the terrace
or in the garden. If you prefer, take a swim in the pool!
Low Price
Hotel NH Califa
Address: Calle Lope de Hoces 14
Small hotel belonging to NH Hotel Chain and located near the
entrance of the Old Town.
This area of Cordoba, very popular in the city, is plenty of shops,
cafes and bars.
To reach the Mosque you will only need 10 minutes on foot, making
this hotel an ideal place for a cultural visit to the Old Town.
Rooms are spacious with natural light and well equipped.
If you need to catch a train, the Railway Station is just 800 meters.
Hotel Serrano
Address: Calle Benito Perez Galdos 6
The hotel is located in one of the most important commercial areas
of Cordoba.
Near America Avenue guests will find numerous cafes, ice cream
shops, restaurants, gourmet shops, etc.
Rooms are large and simply decorated to make you feel like home.
The Train Station is 5 minutes’ walk.
The Old Town is just 15-20 minutes’ walk.
Hostal Fonda La Corredera
Address: Calle Rodriguez Marin 23
This nice hotel is located on Corredera Square, one of the most
beautiful squares in Cordoba.
Hostal Fonda La Corredera is decorated in a traditional Andalusian
style: white walls, wooden windows etc.
Hotel rooms have lots of natural light thanks to large windows. The
restaurant serves homemade food at a good price.
One of the main attractions of the hotel is its terrace where we can
have a drink and enjoy wonderful views across the Old Town.
Cordoba Osio Hostel
Address: Calle Osio 6
Cordoba Osio Hostel is a small traditional Andalusian hostel in the
historic center of Cordoba, only five minutes’ walk from the Mosque.
The hotel has a beautiful Andalusian courtyard which is really lovely.
Hostal Alcazar
Family owned small hostel with apartments situated in the heart of
Old Town, just in front of the Fortress of the Christian Kings and few
minutes by foot from the Mosque.
All rooms have TV and separate bathrooms.
The apartments are spacious and have separate bedrooms and a
living room.
Friendly and very helpful service at reasonable prices.
Hotel Don Paula
Address: Plaza Pineda 2
Don Paula Hotel has modest but elegant facilities. In addition, the
hotel offers mini bar with soft drinks free of charge for guests. Rooms
are extremely clean and comfortable.
24-hour Reception. Tourist information is available at the Reception
Desk.
Hotel Mezquita
Address: Plaza Santa Catalina 1
The hotel is situated in the middle of the Old Town, just few meters
from the Mosque and the Fortress of the Christian Kings.
The hotel lobby is extremely pretty and heavily decorated in a
baroque and renaissance style.
Nice and comfortable rooms. Staff is friendly and very helpful (24-
hour Reception).
Excellent good value for money.
ordoba is not a large metropolis but the city offers all kinds of
possibilities for shopping: from international fashion franchises
to chic boutiques. Get your credit card ready for a workout!
Opening Hours
Large Department Stores and Malls are continually open from
10:00am to 10:00pm. Small shops open approximately from
10:00a.m. to 1:30-2:00pm. They have a break and then open again
from 5:00pm to 8:30-9:00pm. Closed on Sunday.
Payment options
Cash or credit card. If you are paying by credit card, please have your
ID or Passport with you. Employees are obligated to request
documentation.
Taxes
VAT rate in Spain is 21%. Non-EU residents may avail of tax-free -
Value Added Tax (VAT) - for purchases of more than €90.15. Don’t
forget to apply for reimbursement at the Airport.
Sales
For discounts and great buys, don’t miss “Rebajas” Period (sales).
“Rebajas” take place twice a year: summer sales are from July until
August, whereas winter sales start in the second week of January and
last until the end of February.
During “Rebajas” you can find great discounts from 15% to 75%.
Streets are full of people trying to find the best discounts and you will
have to endure long queues when paying, especially on weekends.
C
CORDOBA
Shopping

Shopping Streets
Gondomar & Concepcion Streets
Gondomar Street begins at Tendillas Square and ends at Gran Capitan
Boulevard. This part of
the city belonged to the
old bourgeois area.
From Gran Capitan
Boulevard the popular
Concepcion Street
extends to Paseo de la
Victoria, one of the
Avenues with highest
traffic density in
Cordoba.
Nowadays all these
streets have become
the ideal place for a
shopping session and
people fill them during
the whole day, even in
summer thanks to the
wide awnings put by
the City Council to
protect people from the sun.
As a consequence of its central situation and its enormous popularity,
Gondomar Street has the highest rental rates in the city. Here you will
find all kinds of fashion stores such as Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear,
Etam as well as banks, gift shops etc.
We recommend you take a look at one of the oldest toy shop in the
city, “Los Guillermos”: here you can find any gift you need. They
specialize, in particular, in toy soldiers, model airplanes and trains.
Cruz Conde Street
This street has been recently renovated and transformed into a
pedestrian area, ideal for shopping and ruining your budget.
The street is considered as an important part of the Shopping District,
which is composed of Gondomar, Concepcion, Ronda de los Tejares
and Cruz Conde Streets). Numerous fashion shops and international
franchises have inaugurated here their stores (Desigual, Punto Roma,
Springfield, Massimo Dutti, etc.) turning the street into one of the
most crowded in Cordoba.
Ronda de los Tejares is, without a doubt, one of the main shopping
streets in Cordoba. The traffic in this area is sometimes a hell (we
recommend using public transport) but the wide sidewalks allow us
to make purchases conveniently.
The main option here is the popular Department Store “El Corte
Ingles” which is
composed of six
floors where you
can find almost
everything.
Along the street
you will find as
well all kinds of
shops (Cortefiel,
Elena Miró,
Yamamay, etc.),
old cafes, travel
agencies, etc.
La Viñuela
Maybe Viñuela area is somewhat far from downtown but it’s worth
talking about this shopping area.
La Viñuela is possibly one of the most popular areas to do shopping
among “cordobeses”: every day hundreds of people crowd the
streets of this humble district.
You can find everything you need away from the major commercial
brands without reducing quality.
Paqui Diaz is one of the most famous shops in this area (women´s
fashion). Miguel Peris is a local shop specialized in classic men´s
fashion. If you have time enough and you're a curious tourist, we
recommend you take a look at “Mercado del Marrubial”, popularly
known as “Mercado de la Mosca”. Here you will find a traditional
Andalusian market where humble people come to buy food. It's a
real spectacle to see the huge variety of fish, meat and fresh fruit. In
addition, prices are really affordable compared to other European
cities.
Bus Lines from downtown: 
Department Stores
El Corte Ingles
El Corte Ingles the biggest Department Store Group in Europe and
ranks fourth Worldwide.
The stores are very large in size and offer a wide range of products:
music, household, furniture, hardware, books, clothes, groceries,
gourmet food, travel agency, cars and even real estate services. In a
Globalized World, the international expansion of El Corte Ingles
began in 2001 in Portugal, with a huge Store in Lisbon and continued
in 2006 with a Store in Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto. Currently, a
third one is planned.
El Corte Ingles has two stores in Cordoba downtown: Ronda de los
Tejares Avenue and Jesus Maria Street. A third one is located in a
suburb of the city.
www.elcorteingles.es
Malls & Shopping Centers
El Arcangel Shopping Centre
Popular Shopping Centre located opposite the football stadium and
only 2 km from old town. This Mall was built in 1994 and has 33,000
square meters where you can enjoy up to 90 different stores:
clothing, footwear, video games, newspapers, food, cinemas,
restaurants…
Springfield, Lefties, The Phone House, Marionaud Parfumeries, C & A,
Eroski, Game Stop, Calzedonia, Kid Fashion, Orange, McDonalds ...
Address: Calle Centro Comercial Arcángel s/n
Phone Number: 957750090
El Zoco Shopping Centre
This Mall, built in 2005, has an area of 17,000 square meters.
More than 80 different commercial establishments distributed in
three floors: McDonald's, Gambrinus Bar, Celop, Oteros Sport etc.
Address: Calle José María Martorell, s/n
La Sierra Shopping Centre
La Sierra is a modern and well-connected Shopping Center near the
Train Station, probably the best in town. The Mall has a total area of
108,586 square meters and over 2000 parking spaces.
Some of the stores that you can enjoy here are: Bershka, Yves Rocher,
Zara, Carrefour, Massimo Dutti, Oysho, Vodafone, The Phone House,
Mango, Blanco, Game Stop, as well as modern cinema screens.
Openning Hours: 10:00-22:00
Address: Calle Poeta Emilio Prados s/n
CORDOBA
Fountain in Downtown
El Corte Ingles Department Store

Cordoba Souvenirs
Moving away from the typical souvenirs, Cordoba boasts many
unique handicrafts. Since the Middle Ages, the city became a major
production center for leather products, porcelain and silver filigree.
At the same time, other interesting souvenirs to take home are: Olive
Oil, Fan, Arab Pastries, Flamenco Castanets or Montilla Moriles wine.
Around the Mosque and tourist streets you will find many souvenir
shops full of fridge magnets, postcards, picture books etc. but if you
want to escape from the typical and boring souvenirs we recommend
visiting some of these shops:
• Taller Meryan (address: Calle de las Flores, 2): Leather products.
• Adelfas Campos (address: Calle Velázquez Bosco, 8): Porcelain.
• Artesanía Andaluza (address: Calle Tomás Conde, 3): Silver filigree
and leather products.
• Artesanía Los Patios (addres: Calle Cardenal Herrero 30) Porcelain.
• El Humo (address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 68) wonderful
pottery designs
Olive Oil: The Province of Cordoba produces some of the best olive
oils in the world. If
you are thinking
about buying an
olive oil bottle, we
recommend you try
olive oil from Baena
or Priego de
Cordoba, two small
villages near
Cordoba. Anyway
ask the clerk, he will
know how to help
you choose the right one for you.
There is a gourmet shop near the Mosque where visitors can buy
excellent local olive oil or wine: Bodegas Mezquita (address: Calle
Cardenal Herrero, 8). Recently, COVAP has opened an interesting
gourmet shop near the Old Town ( address: Calle Lineros) where you
can buy and enjoy local culinary delights such as Spanish ham, wine,
olive oil, etc.
Bookshops
Beta Bookshop
This chain of Bookshops is particularly popular in Seville where they
have 7 shops. Recently, Beta has opened a great bookshop in the city
center that meets the demands of a city with great literary tradition.
In Beta Bookshop you will find all kinds of books and literary genres:
drama, poetry, photo books, travel guides, etc.
Beta Bookshop also has a low cost section where you can find
interesting books at bargain prices.
If you have any questions, the staff will kindly help you find what
you're looking for.
Address: Calle Córdoba de Veracruz, 2
Website: http://www.libreriasbeta.com
Luque Bookshop
Luque Bookshop is, without a doubt, the most popular in Cordoba
and was founded in 1919 by Rogelio Diaz Luque.
For more than eight decades the company ran two bookshops in
downtown. Unfortunately, the economic crisis wreaked havoc on the
family business and they had to shut down.
Thanks to the popular initiative (collecting signatures, Facebook
groups, etc.), four former employees of the bookshop and a son of
the former owner decided to reopen Luque Bookshop.
Currently, Luque Bookshop has over 300 square meters filled with all
kinds of books.
There is a space dedicated for writers: Faber-Castell, Mont Blanc,
Parker, Cross, etc.
Addres: Calle Jesus Maria 6
Website: http://www.librerialuque.es/
El Corte Ingles Bookshop
El Corte Ingles, located on Ronda de los Tejares Avenue, has a
magnificent bookshop with independent access from the street.
Here, you will find a huge variety of books well sorted by genre:
Health, Sports, Historical Fiction, Biography, Poetry, etc.
One of the great strengths of this bookshop is the customer service: If
you cannot find your book, the employees will order for you.
Address: Avenida Ronda de los Tejares 30
Monte Sion (Christian Bookshop)
Spain is a deeply religious country where the Church still retains
some degree of influence, especially in villages and small towns.
Every self-respecting city has a Christian Bookstore and Cordoba is no
exception to the rule.
Monte Sion Bookshop, located in downtown, sells a large range of
Bibles, Christian Life books as well as cards, liturgical objects,
rosaries, crucifixes, etc.
Address: Plaza de los Carrillos 1
Totem (Comic Bookshop)
This wonderful bookshop, specialized in fantasy and comic-books, is
unique in Cordoba: hundreds of avid comic fans come each month to
this shop which is located in the city center.
In Totem you will find from classic comics such as Superman or
Spiderman to the latest in manga comics, newly arrived from Japan.
Besides comics, Totem sells all kinds of items for collectors: T-shirts,
posters, action figures…
Address: Calle Rodríguez Marín, 21
Olive Oil
Gourmet chips? It may sound strange, but if you visit
Cordoba, you cannot miss the opportunity to sample
one of the most delicious chips you've ever tasted.
The local company, San Nicasio, produces since 1999
these mouthwatering chips in a small town called
Priego de Cordoba, which is located 100km from the
city. This town, surrounded by gentle hills, is
inundated by olive groves and small olive oil factories.
Due to soil conditions and climatology, this olive oil is
considered by many experts as one of the best in the
world. This blessing was not ignored by San Nicasio
Company which started to produce chips fried in
genuine and high quality olive oil with a touch of pink
salt brought from the Himalayas.
At the same time, San Nicasio has designed a modern
packaging process that allows chip bags to withstand
extreme conditions and high altitude. Thanks to this
process, San Nicasio can export its chips to diverse
countries in the world such as Japan, Korea, France,
UK or USA, maintaining first-day freshness.
Usually these chips are sold in gourmet shops and
department stores like El Corte Ingles.
Website: http://www.sannicasio.es
Gourmet Chips
CORDOBA

ordoba offers a great range of leisure facilities and many
activities for the hundreds of thousands of tourists who come
every season to the city, from Flamenco soirées to Cultural
Night Shows. The fun begins!
Entertainment Centre El Tablero
El Tablero Entertainment Centre has 15 modern cinema screens
which are considered as the best in the city. Besides all this, the
cinema is equipped with the latest generation of seats, really
comfortable. But this Entertainment Centre is more than cinemas: we
will also find Italian Restaurants, fast food Restaurants, Sega Park,
OpenCor and over 500 parking spaces.
Address: Calle Juan Ramón Jiménez s/n
Grand Theatre (Gran Teatro)
The Grand Theatre is located in an elegant nineteenth century
building, which was designed by Amadeo Rodriguez. The Theatre
follows a classic Italian model with 28 boxes and has a seating
capacity for up to nearly one thousand people.
Since its inauguration (1873), The Grand Theatre has become an icon
of the city and a cultural center of the utmost importance for the city.
Currently, The Gran Theatre is one of the most active in Andalusia:
important performances and plays take place here every season.
Website: http://www.teatrocordoba.org/gran-teatro/
Address: Avenida Gran Capitan, 3
Telephone: 957480644.
Gongora Theater
Gongora Theatre was built between 1929 and 1932 by the renowned
architect Luis Gutierrez Soto who had previously designed buildings
as Cine Callao (Madrid), Bar
Chicote (Madrid) or the old
Terminal of Madrid-Barajas
Airport.
The building was designed in
a Mediterranean style as we
can see in its façade.
For some time in the past, the
theater was used as a cinema,
the most elegant in the city
but in 1997 it was closed for
improvement works.
Recently, the theatre
reopened its doors and has
become a point of reference
in Cordoba.
Website:
http://www.teatrocordoba.or
g/teatro-góngora/
Address: Calle Jesus Maria 10
Phone: 957480644
The Mosque Night Show
This great show is called "El Alma de Cordoba" (The Soul of Cordoba).
Through new technologies (sound-and-light show like nothing you've
ever seen before) you will make a wonderful journey to the origin of
one of the most important monuments in Europe during the Middle
Ages. The lights reflected on the walls of the building, the sounds and
projections transport us to the times when Cordoba was the capital
of the world and one of the most important cities in history.
The tour begins in the Orange Tree Courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos)
where visitors are greeted by a really beautiful projection. Then we
continue inside the temple where amazing lights and sounds relate
the history of the monument. (www.elalmadecordoba.com)
 Tour duration: about 1hour
 Audio guide service is available in 8 languages. (Included in
price).
 Entry fee 18€ (adult) children between 7-10 years 9 €
 Maximum group number: 80
 Check timetables
 Consider buying in advance.
Hammam Al-Andalus (Arab Baths)
The Hammam is very popular in Middle Eastern culture (Turkey,
Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia…) since many centuries ago.
According to some experts, the Hammam is considered an evolution
of the Roman saunas: citizens came to these public baths (men and
women were separated) where they talked and discussed about
politics, religion, poetry, etc. Thanks to this wonderful initiative,
visitors can feel for a day as an Al-Andalus citizen. The Hammam has
been recreated in great detail from the music and the smells to the
interior decoration. Following the traditional model, these Arab baths
are composed of three rooms: cold water room, warm water room
and hot water room. These temperature changes are very healthy for
the circulatory system. At the same time, there is also a Turkish bath
(steam bath), which was very popular during the Middle Ages.
Finally, Alandalus Hammam offers a wonderful selection of massages
and body treatments.
Price: from 23€ (10% off by presenting a valid Mosque ticket).
Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 51
Website: http://cordoba.hammamalandalus.com/
C
If you like vintage music and you are looking for
something special, Cordoba has two shops really
interesting:
Discos Fuentes Guerra
This shop is very popular among all music lovers in the
city. The store specializes in different musical genres:
rock&roll, rap, alternative music, country etc.
In addition, you can also find new edition vinyl records
and vinyl reissues imported from USA and Northern
Europe. Address: Calle del Caño, 11
Amigos del Disco
This tiny shop is located near the City Hall and houses an
impressive collection of old records and vinyls: The
Beetles, Bee Gees, Rolling Stones, ABBA, etc.
Store owner, Bartolome Jaen, began a personal record-
collection 25 years ago, from little-known songwriters to
rock bands or British pop groups. In 1994 Bartolome
Jaen decided to share his personal collection and set up
a small record store, which is unique in Cordoba.
Currently, Amigos del Disco has more than 200,000
copies including CDs, cassettes, vinyl, maxi singles, etc.
Address: Calle San Fernando 5
CORDOBA
Vintage & Alternative Music
Entertainment
Gongora Theatre

Royal Stable Show
King Felipe II built in 1570 the Royal Stable in Cordoba where the
horses were educated and trained by the best experts.
Felipe II was truly passionate about horses and their training and was
the promoter of an ambitious personal project: he wanted to create
the perfect horse breed. For years, veterinarians and experts were
crossing different breeds of horses from all around the world. The
final result was the birth of the Andalusian horse, a symbol of the
Spanish Empire.
Today Cordoba has regained its position as a breeding and training
center. Besides, the city boasts one of the most advanced veterinary
centers in Europe which is specialized in horses.
If you visit Cordoba, do not miss this great equestrian show.
Schedule: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 21:00 / Sundays and holidays
(12:00).
Prices: Adults (13 and older): 15€ / Children (3 to 12 years): 10€
Fortress of the Christian Kings Show
If you decide to attend, you will have the opportunity to experience a
unique night show that won’t let you down at all.
In one of the walls of the fortress courtyard is projected a historic
tour of Cordoba through some of its most important figures: Seneca,
Maimonides, Bishop Osio, Gran Capitan and Fernando III.
The tour continues across the gardens of the fortress where visitors
will be surprised by an incredible show of lights and sounds
accompanied by medieval music and Flamenco.
Price: Saturday-Monday: 6,80 € / Tuesday-Friday: 9€
Schedule: Check schedules. It may vary according to season.
Consider buying in advance at the Tourist Office, which is located in
front of the Fortress of the Christian Kings.
Guitar Festival
During the month of July, Cordoba becomes the guitar capital of the
World. The festival, celebrated for over 30 years, is nationally and
internationally known: every year great artists and guitar lovers from
all around the world are invited to join and the city exudes a festive
atmosphere.
Since its first edition in 1980, this popular festival has continued to
attract distinguished artists such as Bob Dylan, Paco de Lucia, Joan
Manuel Serrat, BB King, Mark Knopfler, John Fogerty and many more.
The Festival can be divided into two different parts:
Education
Courses on classic guitar, flamenco and electronic guitar, composition
courses, flamenco singing lessons, dance classes and much more.
These courses are taught by great guest artists and are addressed to
everyone who loves music and guitar.
Concerts
During the month of July, every corner of Cordoba can be converted
into a makeshift stage: Corredera Square, Gran Theatre, Tendillas
Square, Axerquía Theatre and even the Fortress of the Christian Kings.
Website: www.guitarracordoba.com
Botanical Garden
Cordoba Botanical Garden is located near the Guadalquivir River,
between the Roman Bridge and the University Campus.
After a long planning phase, the Botanical Garden was built in 1987
thanks to the economic support of Local Government.
Since its opening, the garden has grown and has been supplemented
with different plant species that enrich it: genebanks, herbarium,
spermatheca, plant fossil collections, temporary exhibitions,
interpretive centers, etc.
Perhaps, the two most interesting parts of the garden are the
Museum of Paleobotany and Ethnobotany.
In short, if you love botany you cannot miss this Botanical Garden,
which has been awarded on numerous occasions for its richness and
conservation.
Moreover, the price is quite affordable compared to other similar
gardens in Spain.
Autumn-Winter: from 10:00 to 17:30 / Sunday: 10:00-15:00
Spring: from 10:00 to 20:00 / Sunday: 10:00-15:00
Summer: 9:00 to 14:00
Monday Closed
Price: General 3€ / Reduced 1,5€
Website: www.jardinbotanicodecordoba.com
Football
In Spain football is more than mere sport, it is a religion and Cordoba
is no exception to the rule.
The city has a team that plays in the Spanish Second Division (Liga
Adelante) and is encouraged every weekend with devotion by
thousands of fans.
If you want to enjoy a football match, why not come to the Stadium
and join the fun?
Football Stadium (Nuevo Arcangel) is currently undergoing a huge
remodel but soon it will be completed 100%. When the Stadium is
finished, it will seat 25,000 spectators and will become one of the
most modern stadiums in Spain.
If you want to get fully equipped before the match, visit to the official
team store, which is located in front of the Stadium (El Arcangel
Shopping Centre), and buy a scarf or a jersey.
uring the weekend Cordoba turns into a city that does not
sleep. Its streets are full of people of all ages willing to have
fun, stay up and dance all night.
There is a wide range of night entertainment. You will find many bars
and pubs dispersed throughout the city. However, Cordoba Nightlife
can be divided mainly in three areas:
• Plan Renfe
• Ciudad Jardin
• Downtown
Plan Renfe
Libertad Avenue, near Train Station, has become one of the most
popular areas in Cordoba and most expensive too.
Parallel to this popular Avenue, there is a wide boulevard where
people come to stroll and chat and numerous fountains significantly
cool the atmosphere during long summer nights.
If you are looking for some place to eat, you can start your evening
dining at one of the many varied restaurants that you will find in the
area (Asian, Japanese, American, Italian, etc.). Then, if you want to
continue the fun with a drink, you can go to some of the pubs around
D
CORDOBA
Nuevo Arcangel Stadium
Nightlife

the area: Bambuddha or O´Connel´s are two really good options.
The area is not too big but the ambience is very pleasant and
generally is frequented by people over 25-30 years old.
Moma (Address: intersection between Libertad Avenue and Miguel
Gila Street).
Sojo (Address: Miguel Gila Street).
Ciudad Jardin
Ciudad Jardin is a traditional quarter, very popular in Cordoba. Over
the years, many students have decided to live here sharing
apartments as rents are cheaper than in other areas of the city. At
the same time, Ciudad Jardin has been occupied gradually by
immigrants who have set up their business (“locutorios”, grocery
stores, etc.) here.
Over time, the quarter has become the most crowded area to hang
out in Cordoba and generally is frequented by Colleges’ students and
teenagers.
There are plenty of bars and pubs to choose: El Grifo, La Libra and El
Capote are some of the most popular.
Casa Madriles is a place young “Cordobeses” known well. This tavern
imitates the aesthetics of the typical bars in Madrid, something very
curious in an Andalusian city. Excellent wines, delicious
“Flamenquines” and good music (address: Calle Alhaken II).
Banagher Irish Pub: one of the few Irish pubs in town: great selection
of beers, nice music and good atmosphere (address: Plaza de Costa
Sol).
Downtown
When the shops close and the activity ceases, the city center wakes
up again through the numerous bars, pubs and clubs in the area:
Underground
This nice pub is decorated like a subway station. The place is
frequented by lovers of alternative music and music of the 80’s.
Address: Calle Conde Robledo 1
Gongora Gran Cafe
One of the trendiest places in the city: live music, funny monologues
and disco session when the night falls.
Address: Calle Gongora 10
METRO
Gay-friendly Disco in downtown. Good music and fun.
Address: Calle Conde de Robledo s /n
Café de la Luna
It’s a benchmark for lovers of live music in Cordoba.
They promote young artists of different styles. Some of the groups
that have performed here are: El Canto del Loco, Pereza or Joaquin
Sabina.
Address: Plaza de Cervantes
Millennium
Great live music by young groups who look for success.
Address: Calle Alfaros 33
Templarios
Who said that the Middle Ages were boring?
In this bar we can enjoy a fun trip to the twelfth or thirteenth
century: in every room the central theme is the Middle Ages (armors,
torches, shields etc.).
The pub can be divided into three parts:
A relaxed area where we can enjoy tea, ice creams or just a coffee.
The central room is equipped with all necessary to hold musical
performances, monologues, magic shows etc. The third room is
designed as a bar-brewery.
One of the best days of the week to visit this pub is on Thursday.
Every Thursday they celebrate a Beer Party where the ambience is
great.
Address: Plaza de los Carrillos, 4
RIFF
Good music, friendly atmosphere and artists who want to find their
way to fame.
Address: Avenida Gran Capitán 35
Café Theatre
Nicely decorated pub localed in downtown. Good atmosphere and
friendly service.
Address: Avenida de la Libertad S/N
La Galeona
This pub has a very special ambience. All decoration is inspired by
pirate ships: caravels, pirate hats, anchors, swords, barrels of rum,
etc. Have a drink with your friends while you enjoy live
performances. Very friendly staff.
Address: Calle Valdes Leal 1
Cafe-Pub Atrio
From early morning, Atrio Cafe-Pub open its doors without a break
until dawn. Atrio is an elegant place located in one of the most
exclusive streets of the city, Gran Capitan Avenue.
The beautiful decor, the elegant terrace and coffee presentation will
certainly delight every customer.
If you want to have a drink, ask for the Gin-Tonic Menu.
Address: Avenida Gran Capitan 32
Cruz Conde 19
This club, located in one of the most popular streets of Cordoba, is
gaining popularity relatively quickly: affordable prices, free entry and
its excellent situation have contributed to its success.
Good music and friendly staff.
Address: Cruz Conde 19
Useful Information
According to state regulations, the clubs do not allow entry to
persons under 18 years old. Some clubs have light-session (alcoholic
beverages are prohibited) during the afternoon and they allow entry
of minors.
Smoking is not allowed. Sometimes the clubs have the right of
reserved admission, although face-control is not common in Spain.
Night Cinemas
In the last decade, Spanish films have found a place on the world
stage: young directors are doing a great work which is being
recognized and rewarded worldwide. In addition to all this, many
Spanish actors and actresses are having a notable success in the U.S.
(Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Antonio Banderas, Paz Vega, etc.)
contributing to the global success of the Spanish Cinema.
Some cinemas have late-night session where you can enjoy
Hollywood new releases in comfortable seats and 3D screens.
Guadalquivir Cinemas
Reduced Price on Wednesday
Address: Calle Libertador Simón Bolívar 46
Arcangel Multicines UCC
Reduced Price on Wednesday
Address: Avenida del Arcángel
CineSur El Tablero
Address: Calle Juan Ramon Jimenez
Alkazar
Reduce Price on Wednesday
Usually, cinemas are not expensive in Cordoba. The price of tickets is
approximately 5-7€ and 8-10€ for 3D films.
For more information about movies, showtimes, sessions in English
and much more, you can check the following website:
www.ecartelera.com
CORDOBA

All you need to know about what
to visit, culture, gastronomy and
much more in the palm of your
hand.
Travel Guides by Local Experts
www.mundo-guides.com

What to take
Cordoba is a charming medieval city that should be discovered by
walking through its cobbled streets and romantic whitewashed
squares filled with flowers. To avoid difficult situations, it is essential
to have comfortable shoes: during the summer sandals are the most
recommended footwear for visiting the old town. Sandals will make
you feel cooler and more comfortable during the long and hot
summer days. Besides the footwear, it is also important to be fully
equipped to protect yourself from the sun: light clothing, cap,
sunglasses, fresh water and sunscreen.
If you are planning to spend several days in Cordoba you can bring a
swimsuit as Malaga and Costa del Sol (one of the most important
tourist areas in Europe) are an hour-and-half drive.
During spring months, the sun´s rays can be already too strong. Don’t
forget to bring a cap and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Early in the
morning and late in the evening the temperature drops significantly,
we recommend you bringing a jacket or a sweater.
Autumn can be very rainy, consider taking a raincoat or a small
umbrella.
Winter is not particularly cold although frosts are common during the
night. Take your anorak and gloves.
Do not forget to photocopy your documentation and plane tickets. It
could be very useful in case of theft.
Emergency & Pharmacies
Phone number for all emergency services is 112, the same as in
others European Union countries.
Depending on the nature of your problem, you should indicate the
department: Police, Fire Department or Emergency Medical Service.
The pharmacist can help you with minor medical problems without
having to visit the doctor.
Pharmacies are open from Monday to Saturday during business
hours (until 9:00 pm).
Pharmacies on duty (“Farmacia de Guardia” in Spanish), open 24
hours and are posted on the door of all the other pharmacies.
Disabled Travelers
The city is fully adapted for disabled people: offices, restaurants,
hotels, museum, etc. have facilities designed to accommodate people
with disabilities.
Low-floor buses allow easy access for wheelchair users and elderly
citizens. If you need a wheelchair accessible TAXI, call to TAXI Call
Center (tel: 957764444).
Some traffic lights in downtown make a sound to alert blind people
when they can cross the street.
During your visit to the city, probably you have seen some small
kiosks under the name of ONCE. This company sells lottery and offer
work to disabled people, trying to integrate them into society.
Bad Experiences
Cordoba is a city not particularly dangerous but you can always have
a bad time if you don’t take some basic precautions: watch your bags,
camera, passport, etc. especially near the Mosque or the Roman
Bridge.
Near the Mosque one can see gypsy women who offer small
branches of rosemary or try to read the future by your hand and then
ask you for money. Never take the branch or let they hold your hand.
Just ignore them. The police normally check the area to shoo them.
If, unfortunately, you’ve been mugged, call 091 and then cancel all
your Credit Cards. The nearest police station to the historic center is
located on Calle Juda Leví s/n (tel: 957290760).
Personal Space & Communication Skills
In Spain personal space is much smaller than in other European
countries such as Germany, United Kingdom or France: when two
people hold a conversation they speak close to each other. You
shouldn't worry about that, it is quite normal here.
At the same time, Spaniards talk much with their hands and speak in
a high tone voice. This should not be misinterpreted by tourists, it is a
cultural thing and they have no intention of offending you.
Usually, Spaniards greet in a much more tactile manner than in other
countries: men embrace and pat each other on the shoulder, and
women kiss each other twice on the cheeks to say hello.
Useful Information
Spain is a zero tolerance country with smokers. Recently, it has
been absolutely prohibited smoking in all restaurants, hotels,
shops, hospitals and other public spaces, creating a great
controversy across the country.
If you want to buy cigarettes, you can only do it at licensed
tobacco shops, called "estanco" in Spanish.
According to State laws, there is a ban on selling tobacco to
persons under the age of 18.
The sale of alcoholic beverages is also prohibited to persons
under eighteen years. Shop staff can require ID card if they
have doubts about your age.
The high price of drinks in clubs and the limited budget of
young people have created a new phenomenon popularly
known as "botellón": young people purchase alcohol in shops
and then meet in small parks or urban squares to drink and
listen to music. This phenomenon has created a great
controversy in the country as it causes noise pollution and
damage to street furniture.
Recently, the City Council has fitted out an area of the city for
young people, preventing the city center from these
regrettable mass meetings.
Smoking & Alcohol
Spain enjoys a great variety of TV channels: news, sport,
documentaries, cooking, etc. However the most important ones
are TVE and La 2, the national public broadcasters.
Canal Sur Andalucia and Canal Sur Television are the Andalusian
Public Television Stations.
In addition to the channels mentioned above, there is a endless
list of private channels all around the country (La Sexta, Telecinco,
Antena 3, Neox, Cuatro, Divinity, Explora, TV13, etc.).
There are also multiple pay channels which offer sports, sitcoms,
movies, etc such as Viajar, National Geographic, Discovery, FOX,
Gol TV, Canal +, Canal Cocina, Calle 13, Paramount Comedy, etc.
El Pais is the most widely read newspaper in Spain and one of
the major newspapers in Europe. Historically, El Pais is known
for its liberal thought and information rigor.
The second most read newspaper is El Mundo.
Making a comparison, this newspaper has a different point of
view and less liberal editorial content.
AS and Marca are the two major sports newspapers in the
country: their pages are filled with news and rumors about the
great Spanish football teams.
There are also newspapers that cover local and Regional news:
the main ones are Diario Cordoba and El Día de Cordoba.
TV & Press
CORDOBA

Cordoba Card
Cordoba Card represents one of the most convenient and cheapest
ways to visit Cordoba: thanks to this Card you can get great
discounts in sights, museums, public transport, Flamenco shows, etc.
There are 6 different types to choose from 15 € to 43 €.
Buying your Cordoba Card you will receive an excellent map and a
small guide of Cordoba.
Information and sales points:
• Tourist Office Tendillas Ssquare
• Tourist Office Camposanto de los Martires (opposite the Fortress of
the Christian Kings)
• Train station Tourist Office
Guided Tours
Cordoba Vision has been providing travel services in Cordoba for
several decades. The company offers a three-hour guided tour to
Madinat al-Zahra (Spanish, French and English) for 10€. The bus
departs from Alcazar Avenue (in front of the Fortress of the Christian
Kings). You can also reserve a combined tour of the Old town and
Madinat al-Zahra for around 30€.
Finally Cordoba Vision offers also guided tours to Seville and
Granada. Check out prices because they may change depending on
the season.
Address: Calle Doctor Marañón 1
Phone: 957 23 17 34
Language
Spain's official language is Spanish, one of the most widely spoken
languages in the world.
Generally, Spaniards don’t have a high level of English so it would be
convenient if you could minimally express yourself in Spanish. Check
out our section "Basic Words".
Anyway you should know that in Andalusia people speak a slightly
different dialect than the rest of Spain: they speak very fast and they
don’t pronounce all the words properly. Don’t worry about that.
“Andaluces” are very friendly and open minded, they will try to
communicate with you anyhow.
Local Currency
The official currency in Spain is EURO (€). The country adopted the
euro in 2001, together with its European partners.
This currency is used in other 15 European countries, which means
that more than 300 million people use it every day.
In the coming years, countries such as Bulgaria, Poland or Rumania
are expected to join the Euro Zone. Previously, Spaniards used the
Spanish currency, called “peseta” (pts.): 1€=166,39 pts. Some people
yearn for the return of the “peseta” as the arrival of the euro brought
about a general increase in prices.
Phone Calls
Phone cards can be purchased at stand-news and licensed tobacco
shops. You will find different phone cards according to number of
minutes, destinations, etc.
Another way to call abroad cheaply is to go to a Locutorio, which is a
commercial place where the general public can make international or
long distance phone calls more conveniently than from a public
phone booth on the street. Plus, here you can make calls using
Internet and even send money. Internet Cafe Excalibur (address:
Calle Abogado Enriquez Barrios 9).
Calls from your Hotel's room are usually much more expensive than
from a public phone.
All telephone numbers in Spain have 9 digits (including area codes).
If the phone number starts with 9 indicates that it is a landline. If it
starts with 6 is a mobile phone.
The phone numbers starting with 803, 806 and 807 indicate that they
are much more expensive than a common call.
Numbers beginning with 800 or 900 are free of charge.
The telephone country code for Spain is (+34).
There are four international calling rates depending on the
destination of the call: European Union, other European countries,
North Africa, America and Rest of World.
Public Toilets
Some downtown streets have public toilets available to all citizens by
paying a small fee.
These toilets look like small cabins. When you pay the fee you can get
in and the door closes automatically. If the client does not open the
door manually, it opens automatically after a few minutes.
Alternatively, you can go to a Mall or a bar, although you should ask
for a small drink to use the toilet. Sometimes the door is locked and
you must ask the waiter for the key.
CORDOBA
If you are planning to rent a car in Spain, you will need the International
Driving Permit, which is valid in over 150 countries (International
Driving Permits may not be issued more than six months in advance
of desired effective date). If you are a citizen of the European Union
driving license from your country will suffice.
Rent a Car Aval
Address: Avenida de la Torrecilla 20
957297422
Avis (Train Station)
Address: Glorieta de las Tres Culturas
957401445
Escalfe
Address: Poligono Chinales, plot 61
957283972
Europcar
Address: Avenida Aeropuerto s / n
957402396
Europcar (Train Station)
957703480
Hertz (Train Station)
957402061
National Atesa
Address: Poligono Industrial Las Quemadas 20-1
957325474
National Atesa
Address: Avenida Cervantes 20
957475979
Never put off until tomorrow what can be done today: we strongly
recommend arranging your rental car well in advance as during the high
season demand is huge. Plus you will avoid unnecessary queues.
You can rent a car in your Hotel as well. Ask your Receptionist for
help. Car rental companies usually ask for a Credit card number to
cover possible damages, fines, etc. (Debit cards are not accepted). If
you do not have Credit card, the company will request a deposit of
approximately 700€.
Rent a Car

Cash Points
Don´t worry if you
need to draw money
from an ATM: Spain is
the European country
with the highest
density of ATMs per
square meter, which is
a tremendous
convenience for the
Spanish people and
visitors.
When using an ATM,
please note that there
are no any suspicious
people around. If
possible, use the ATM
inside the bank.
In some ATMs you can
buy tickets for sporting
events, Theater, etc.
If you need to get money urgently, you can use
Western Union which offers money transfer service (tel: 900633633).
Credit Cards
In Spain you won’t need to carry large amounts of cash as there are
many ATMs everywhere and most shops accept credit cards.
The most common credit cards in Spain are VISA and MasterCard: the
major Banks give cash using these Credit cards.
When paying by credit card the employee will ask for your ID card or
Passport to verify your identity. On occasions it is necessary to type
the secret number.
If you have more than one credit card, do not bring them all
together; try to take them separately.
If your credit card is stolen you should cancel it as soon as possible by
calling VISA (900991124) MasterCard (900 97 12 31) or American
Express (902 37 56 37) and report the loss to the nearest Police
Station.
Postal Service
The Spanish Postal Service has improved quickly in recent years,
matching the Postal Service of other European countries.
Post offices are open from 08:00 to 21:00 Monday to Friday and
Saturday from 09:00 to 17:00.
From Post offices you can send registered letters, telegrams and
postcards. Priority mail (urgente) ensures speedier and safer arrival.
To send or receive money you should use an urgent Money Order
(Giro Telegrafico urgente in Spanish).
Packages must be properly wrapped and sealed to be sent. The price
depends on weight and destination.
Postage rates for sending ordinary mail depend on destination:
European Union countries, rest of Europe, America and rest of World.
There are also mailboxes through the city. Mailboxes are large and
yellow.
SEUR is the main courier service in Spain (tel: 902101010). If you
prefer other international companies such as FedEx, DHL or UPS are
also present in Spain.
Opening Hours
Opening hours in Spain are really long compared to other European
countries. Generally, small businesses open their doors at 9:30 /
10:00 until 13:30/14:00 when they take a break for lunch and
“siesta”. Then, they return to work at 16:30 / 17:00 and stay open
until 20:30 to 21:00.
On Saturday afternoon and Sunday the immense majority of small
shops close.
This Spanish habit is not practiced by large shopping centers which
are open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 22:00 without
interruption.
With regard to restaurants, they begin lunch service from 13:00 until
15:30/16:00. Dinners are served from 20:30 to 22:30/23:00.
Many monuments and museums are closed on Monday (staff day
off).
The vast majority of commercial banks work from 09:00 to 14:00 and
close during the evenings except some banks which open on
Thursday afternoon.
ATM Machine
CORDOBA
Tourist Office
(Fortress of the Christian Kings) (34)902201774
Tourist Office (Tendillas Square) (34)957491677
Train Station (34) 902240202-(34)902243402
RENFE www.renfe.es (34)902240202
Bus Station (34)957404040
Mosque (34)957470512
Madinat al-Zahra (34)957355506
Fortress of the Christian Kings (34)957420151
Synagogue (34)957202928
Cordoba Card (34)915241370
Emergency Telephone Number (34)112
Police (34)091 & 112
Old Town Police Station (34)957290760
El Corte Ingles (Department Store) (34)902400222
Central Post Office (Calle Cruz Conde) (34)957479196
Theatre of Cordoba (34)957 48 02 37
Seville Int. Airport (34)954449000
Malaga Int. Airport (34)952048484
Iberia Airlines (34)902400500
Air Europa (34)902 401 501
Vueling Airlines (34)902104269
Socibus (daily buses Madrid-Cordoba) (34)915304417
Useful Phone Numbers

Most people in Spain have a very low level of English. If you ask for help in English, it’s better to talk to young people, between 20 and 30 years old,
who generally have higher levels of English.
The official language is Spanish, a language that comes from Latin. The Arab presence for more than eight hundred years left its tremendous
influence on the language as we can see in some words: “aceite” (oil), “almohada” (pillow) or “darsena” (dock).
Spanish language is spoken by over 500 million people (the third most widely spoken language in the World after English and Chinese). However,
there are many differences between Latin American Spanish and the Spanish spoken in Spain (different verbs, expressions and words).
Together with the Spanish language, there are three other official languages in Spain: Catalan, Galician and Euskera.
Pronunciation: One of the main keys to learn Spanish is that the words are pronounced just like they are written.
CORDOBA
Basic Words
Basic Words & Greetings Siete Seven Ventana Window
Si Yes Ocho Eight Bañera Bathtube
No No Nueve Nine Grifo Tap
Hola Hello, Hi Diez Ten Armario Closet
Adiós Goodbye Once Eleven Caja Fuerte Safe
Buenos días Good morning Doce Twelve No funciona It does´t work
Buenas tardes Good afternoon Trece Thirteen Televisión Television
Buenas noches Good evening Catorce Fourteen Radio Radio
¿Qué tal? How are you doing? Quince Fifteen Desayuno Breakfast
¿Como estas? How are you? Dieciseis Sixteen Comida Lunch
Estoy bien,gracias I am fine ,thank you Diecisiete Seventeen Cena Dinner
Gracias Thank you Dieciocho Eighteen
De nada You are welcome Diecinueve Nineteen Restaurants
¿Perdone? Excuse me? Veinte Twenty La carta, por favor The menu, please
Por favor Please Veintiuno Twenty-one Primer plato Main course
Hoy Today Veintidos Twenty-two Segundo plato Second dish
Ayer Yesterday Treinta Thirty Postre Dessert
Mañana Tomorrow Cuarenta Forty Vaso de vino Glass of wine
¿Qué? What? Cincuenta Fifty Botella de agua Bottle of water
¿Dónde? Where? Sesenta Sixty Cerveza Beer
Por qué? Why? Setenta Seventy Tapa Appetizer
Aquí Here Ochenta Eighty Cuchillo Knife
Lo siento I am sorry Noventa Ninety Tenedor Fork
No hablo español I don´t speak Spanish Cien Hundred Cuchara Spoon
Izquierda Left Doscientos Two Hundred Sal Salt
Derecha Right Trescientos Three Hundred Pimienta Pepper
Cerca Near Mil Thousand Servilleta Napkin
Grande Big Dos mil Two Thousand Carne Meat
Pequeño Small Un millón One million Pescado Fish
Entrada Entry Dos millones Two million Verdura Vegetable
Salida Exit Arroz Rice
Bueno Good Hotels Filete Steak
Malo Bad Numero de habitación Room Number Patatas fritas French Fries
Frío Cold Registrarse Check-in Ensalada Salad
Caliente Hot Pagar la habitación Check-out Sopa Soup
Reservar habitación Book a room Pollo Chicken
Numbers Cancelar una reserva Cancel a booking Ternera Beef
Cero Zero Recepción Front Desk Cerdo Pork
Uno One Servicio de habitaciones Room Service Azucar Sugar
Dos Two Llamada despertador Wake-up call Poco hecho Rare
Tres Three Gobernanta Housekeeping En su punto Medium Rare
Cuatro Four Director del Hotel Hotel Manager Muy hecho Well-done
Cinco Five Noise Ruido La cuenta, por favor The bill, please
Seis Six Ascensor Lift Propina Tip

CORDOBA
¿Dónde está el baño? Where is the toilet? Banks
Camarero Waitress Banco Bank
Mostaza Mustard Caja de Ahorros Saving Bank
Salsa Sauce Cambio Change
Mayonesa Mayo Dinero Money
Asado Baked Billete Banknote
Cocido Boiled Cheque Cheque
Frito Fried Divisa Currency
Tarta Cake Caja Window
Tarta de queso Cheese cake Recibo Recipe
Marisco Seafood Cajaero Automatico Cash Point / ATM Machine
Estofado Stew ¿Dónde puedo cambiar mi dinero? Where can I change money?
Agua mineral Mineral Water Quiero cambiar dinero I want change money
Agua con gas Sparkling Water Firme aquí por favor Sign here, please
¿A qué hora abre el banco? At what time does the bank open?
Shopping Directions
¿Cuánto cuesta? How much is it? ¿Cómo puedo ir a…? How can I go to…?
¿A qué hora abre la tienda? At what time does the store open? Está lejos It´s far
¿A qué hora cierra la tienda? At what time does the store close? Está cerca It´s near
¿Cómo quiere pagar? How do you want to pay? Girar a la izquierda Turn left
En efectivo By cash Girar a la derecha Turn right
Con tarjeta de crédito By credit card Todo recto Go straight
Ropa para hombre Men´s clothes Esquina Corner
Ropa para mujer Women´s clothes ¿Cuánto tiempo se tarda…? How long does it take…?
Ropa de niños Children´s clothes La mejor forma de llegar a... The best way to go to…
Pantalón Pants ¿Dónde está la parada de autobus? Where is the bus stop?
Jersey Pull-over Iglesia Church
Camiseta T-Shirt Mezquita Mosque
Camisa Shirt Sinagoga Synagoge
Tienda Shop Templo Temple
Caro Expensive Calle Street
Barato Cheap Avenida Avenue
Talla Size Barrio District
Zapatos Shoes Fuente Fountain
Zapatos de tacón High heel shoes Plaza Square
Perfume Perfume Río River
Regalo Gift Jardín Garden
Abrigo Coat Parque Park
Vaqueros Jeans Semáforo Traffic Lights
Pantalones cortos Shorts Juderia Jewish Quarter
Pijama Pyjamas Autovia Divided Highway
Bañador Swimsuit Autopista Highway
Sombrero Hat Estación de Tren Train Station
Bolso Bag Orders & Warnings
Pulsera Bracelet ¡Rápido! Fast!
Algodón Cotton ¡Despacio! Slow!
Lana Wool ¡Entre! Come in!
Seda Silk ¡Venga! Come on!
Piel Leather ¡Cuidado! Watch out!
Postal Postcard ¡Socorro! Help!
Joyeria Jewelry ¡Callese! Shut up!
Libro Book ¡Espere! Wait
Diccionario Dictionary ¡Atención! Warning
Supermercado Supermarket ¡Peligro! Danger
Librería Bookshop Cerrado Closed
Zapatería Shoe Store Abierto Open
Quiosco Quiosk Prohibido Forbidden
Mostrador Counter Libre Free
Dependienta Salesclerk Averiado Out of order

CORDOBA
Ocupado Busy Directions
Servicios Toilets ¿Cómo puedo ir a…? How can I go to…?
Aparcamiento Parking Está lejos It´s far
Se vende For sale Está cerca It´s near
Se alquila For rent Girar a la izquierda Turn left
Girar a la derecha Turn right
Hospital Todo recto Go straight
Dolor Pain Esquina Corner
Me duele… I feel pain ¿Cuánto tiempo se tarda…? How long does it take…?
Cabeza Head La mejor forma de llegar a... The best way to go to…
Pierna Leg ¿Dónde está la parada de autobus? Where is the bus stop?
Brazo Arm Iglesia Church
Cuello Neck Mezquita Mosque
Mano Hand Sinagoga Synagoge
Corazón Heart Templo Temple
Garganta Throat Calle Street
Tengo alergía I am allergic Avenida Avenue
Soy diabetico I am diabetic Barrio District
Soy celiaco I am celiac Fuente Fountain
Ambulancía Ambulance Plaza Square
Presión sanguinea Blood Pressure Río River
Tengo gripe I have the flu Jardín Garden
Dolor de cabeza Headache Parque Park
Dolor de estomago Stomach ache Semáforo Traffic Lights
Tengo Mareos I am dizzy Juderia Jewish Quarter
No puedo respirar I can´t breath Autovia Divided Highway
No puedo ver I can´t see Autopista Highway
Expirar Breath out Estación de Tren Train Station
Inspirar Breath in
Time
Airport Minuto Minute
Aeropuerto Airport Hora Hour
Facturar Check-in Media hora Half an hour
Control de policía Police Control Mediodía Noon
Equipaje Luggage Día Day
Equipaje de mano Hand luggage Lunes Monday
Tienda Shop Martes Tuesday
Auxiliar de vuelo Flight attendant Miercoles Wednesday
Piloto Pilot Jueves Thursday
Avión Plane Viernes Friday
Embarcar Board Sábado Saturday
Puerta de embarque Boarding Gate Domingo Sunday
Asiento Seat Enero January
Lineas Aereas Airline Febrero February
Vuelo Flight Marzo March
Llegadas Arrivals Abril April
Salidas Departures Mayo May
Aterrizaje Landing Junio June
Despegue Take-off Julio July
Cinturón Seatbelt Agosto August
Objetos perdidos Lost and found office Septiembre September
Vuelo cancelado Canceled Flight Octubre October
Vuelo retrasado Delayed Flight Noviembre November
Pasajero Passenger Diciembre December
Tarjeta de embarque Boarding pass Mes Month
Recogida de equipaje Baggage Claim Semana Week
Turbulencía Turbulence Año Year
Chaleco salvavidas Life vest Reloj Watch

A Barrio de la Villa neighborhood (Priego) 33,34
Abbasid Caliphate 14 Basic Words 55, 57
Abd Allah 11 Bat Cave (Zuheros) 34
Abderramán I 6,9,10,13 Beer 41
Abderramán II 10,13,15 Bells of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela 14
Abderramán III 10,11,13,14,15,19,37 Black Bedroom (Viana Palace) 24
Agrippina 31 Bookshops 49
Al Gafiqi 17 Botanical Garden 51
Al-Andalus
1,6,9,11,14,15,16,17,
18,25,32,35,36,37,41,
44,46,50
Botellín (Beer) 41
Al-Andalus and Medicine 17 Building CajaSur 28
Al-Andalus Living Museum 16,36 Building of the Union and Fenix 27,29
Albolafia 7 Building Siena 27
Alcazar Gardens (Alcazar) 19 Bullfighting Museum 36
Alegrías 39 Bus Companies 3
Alfonso XI (King) 11,18,19,33,34 By Bus 3
Alfonso XIII Street 29 By Car 3
Alhaken II 10,12,13,18 By Plane 3
Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph 18 By Train 3
Aljama Mosque (Madinat al-Zahra) 15 Byzantine Empire 6
Al-Mansur 10,13,14 C
Almodovar Castle 33 Calahorra Tower 7, 16
Almodovar Gate 16,26 Caliphate Bath (Hammam) 14
Almohades 32,33 Caliphate of Baghdad 11
Alonso Manrique (Bishop) 12 Caliphate of Cordoba 6,10,11,33
Alonso Pinzon 19 Caliphate of Damascus 6,9
Andalusí House 16 Caña (Beer) 41
Andalusian Breakfast 41 Capuchinos Monastery 22
Antonio Gala 37 Capuchinos Square 22
Antonio Ramos Valdes 21 Caracoles (Snails) 40
Apparition of the Angel 13 Cardinal Salazar 12
Aqueduct of the Miracles 10 Carlist Army 40
Arab Houses 17 Carlist Wars 40
Arab Pastries 49 Carlos Saez de Santamaria 29
Archaeological Museum 9,35 Carlos V (King) 12,13
Archangel San Rafael 4,7,11,20,22 Cash Points (Useful Information) 56
Aristotle 32 Castanets 38,49
Arquillos Street 17 Catalina Fernandez de Cordoba 22
Arrabal 17 Cathedral Clock Tower 12
Asian Restaurants 45 Cavea 9
AVE (High Speed Train) 3,29 Central de Telefonos 27
Averroes 17,31,32 Central Pavilion (Madinat al-Zahra) 15
Azahar: Orange Blossom 26 Central Post Office 4,56
B Cesare Arbasia 12
Bad Experiences (Useful Information) 54 City Fair Fair Our Lady of Health 28, 31
Bandoleros 33 Ciudad Jardin (Nightlife) 51, 52
Bank Holidays 4 Claudius Marcellus 6,7,8
Bank of Spain 29 Coffered Ceiling Room (Viana Palace) 24
Banking Hours 4 Colomera House 27
INDEX

Colon Gardens 27 El Sagrario Sacristy (Priego) 34
Colon Park 24,29
El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos
Church
21
Colon Square 29 El Zoco Shopping Centre 48
Colonia Patricia 6,7,8 Electricity Supply 4
Comic Bookshop 49
Emergency & Pharmacies (Useful
Information)
54
Compañia Square 21 Emergency Telephone Number 4,56
Conde Priego Square 23,28 Emirate of Cordoba 6,9,10
Confectionery 41 Enrique II (King) 13,16
Constantine 9 Etiquette (Restaurants) 43
Constantinople 6, 10 F
Construction Stages of the Mosque 10 Faculty of Philosophy and Literature 20
Cordoba Cake (Pastel Cordobes) 41 Fairground (Arenal) 28,31
Cordoba Card 4,55,56 Fan 40,49
Cordoba in the Tenth Century 15 Fandango 39
Cordoba In Three Days 30 Fast Food Restaurants 45
Cordoba Souvenirs 49 Fatimid Kingdom 14
Corredera Square 18,21,28,37, 39,42,51 Federico Garcia Lorca 28,36
Credit Cards (Useful Information) 56 Felipe II (King) 8,20,37,51
Cruz Conde Street 27,48 Fernandez Marin´s House 27
Cycling 4 Fernandinas Churches 22,23
Chapel of San Bartolome 20 Fernando III 6,11,18,20,22,23,26,33,51
Chapel of Santa Teresa 12 Fernando IV (King) 11
Charles of Ucel 21 Ferran Adria 40
Christ of the Lanterns 22 Flamenco 21,27,36,37,38,39,44,50,51
Christian Bookshop 49 Flamenco Cultural Center “Fosforito” 36
Christian Cathedral 11 Flamenco Dress 39 ,4
Christian Kings/ Catholic Monarchs 6,19,25, Flamenco Shows 38,39,42,55,
Christopher Columbus 6,18,19,46 Flamenquín 40,43,44,52
Church of San Nicolas 28 Flavors of Cordoba 40
Church of St. Paul 8 Flower Street 26
Church of the Assumption 34 Football 51,54,
D Football Stadium (Nuevo Arcangel) 20,48,51
Dailing Code 4 Fortress of the Christian Kings (Alcazar) 6,18,21,46,47,51,55,56
Daytrips 33 Fortress of the Christian Kings Show 51
Deanes Gate 12 Fountain of Health (Priego) 34
Deanes Street 26 Fountain of Santa Maria 13
Disabled Travelers (Useful Information) 54 Francisco Javier Pedrajas 34
Discovery of America 6,18,19 Fritura 39
Distances from Cordoba 3 G
Downtown (Nightlife) 52 Gallery of Leather (Viana Palace) 24
Drinks 41 Gallery of Tiles (Viana Palace) 24
E Gardens of Agriculture 28
Earl of Torralva 33 Gate of Forgiveness 13,18
Earthquake 1755 23 Ghusl 11
El Arcangel Shopping Centre 48 Giralda Tower 16,23
El Cordobes 28
Gondomar & Concepcion Streets
(Shopping)
48
El Corte Ingles Department Store 28, 48 Gongora Theater 50
INDEX

Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba (The
Great Captain)
27,31,32,33 Judios Street 16,26
Gonzalo Gustioz 17 Julio Romero de Torres 21,35
Gran Capitan Cafe 29 Julio Romero de Torres Museum 21, 35
Gran Capitan Boulevard 27,28,48 Julius Caesar 7,6
Grand Palace Abbaside (Baghdad) 14 K
Grand Souk 17 King´s Fountain (Priego) 34
Grand Theatre (Gran Teatro) 29, 50 Koran 10,12
Great Colosseum (Rome) 9 L
Guadalquivir River 7,10,16,20,31,33,36,38,46,51 La Niña 19
Guerrita 28,39 La Pinta 19
Guided Tours (Useful Information) 55 La Sierra Shopping Centre 48
Guitar Festival 51 La Viñuela (Shopping) 48
H Lagartigo 28
Hadrian 8 Language (Useful Information) 55
Hammam Al-Andalus (Arab Baths) 50 Las Palmas Gate 13
Handkerchief Alley 26 Lavatories 11
Hanukkah 27 Legends about the Mosque 13
Hernan Ruiz 8,12,13,23
Hernan Ruiz II 12,13,21 Libertad Avenue 29,51,52
Herons 7 Local Currency (Useful Information) 55
High Class Hotels 45 Local Time 4
Hispania Ulterior 7 Lord of Salas 17
Holy Spirit Gate 12,13 Los Califas Bullring 28 ,37
Horse-drawn Carriages 4 Los Guillermos Toy Shop 48
Hotel Suizo 27 Low Price Hotels 47
How to get Madinat al-Zahra 16 Lucano 37
Hydraulic Museum 17, 38 Luis de Gongora 37,12
I M
Ibn Zaydun 37 Machaquito 28,37
Indian Restaurants 45 Madinat al-Zahra 11,13,14,15,16,23,36,37
Inquisition Museum 38 Madinat al-Zahra Doe 15
International Restaurants 44 Madinat al-Zahra Museum 37
Isabel I (Queen) 18,19 Maimonides 25,26,31,32,51
Istanbul 10,27 Maimonides Square 26
Italian Restaurants 44 Main Facades and Access to the Mosque 12
J Malmuerta Tower 24
Jamon de Bellota 40 Malls & Shopping Centers 48
Jamón Serrano (Spanish Ham) 40 Manolete 23,28,37
Japuta 39 ,40 Manolete Cake 41
Jarra (Beer) 41 Marcellus Theater (Rome) 9
Jerez Bank Building 29 Marco Annaeus Seneca 31
Jesus of Nazareth (Priego) 34 Marquis Bedroom (Viana Palace) 24
Jewry 6,44,19,25,39 Martin Alonso Pinzon 19
Jose Andres 40 Martinez Rücker Street 26
Juan de Mena 37 Martos Mill 16
Juan Fernandez de Cordoba 22 Maximian Herculeo 7,8
Juan Maria Arzak 40 Measurement System 4
Juan Navarro Leon 22 Mecca 10,15
Juan Pantoja de la Cruz 24 Medieval Market 21
INDEX

Mendez de Sotomayor 20 Palace of the Marquis of Carpio 20
Mercado de la Mosca (Shopping) 48 Paseo de Córdoba Boulevard 29
Mercado del Marrubial (Shopping) 48 Paseo de la Victoria Avenue / Victoria Avenue 8,27,28,45
Mid-Budget Hotels) 46 Pastel Cordobes (Cordoba Cake) 41
Miguel de Cervantes 20 Patios Festival 31
Mihrab (sacred wall) 10 Payment options (Shopping) 47
Minaret 10,11,13 Pedro Jimenez Street 26
Miraflores Park 17 Pedro Ximenez Wine 40
Montilla-Moriles Wine 39, 40 Perez Barquero Winery 40
Moorish Courtyard (Alcazar) 19 Pero Vazquez de la Frontera 19
Morabito Mosque 29
Personal Space & Communication Skills (Useful
Information)
54
Mosaic Room (Alcazar) 18 Phone Calls (Useful Information) 55
Mosaic Room (Viana Palace) 24 Plan Renfe (Nightlife) 51
Mosque-Cathedral 9 Pompey 6,7
Mountains of Subbetica 33 Pool House (Madinat al-Zahra) 15
Municipal Historical Museum (Priego) 33 Pope Innocent IV 26
Museum of Fine Arts 21, 36 Population 4
Museum of Islamic Art (Qatar) 15,37 Postal Service (Useful Information) 56
Museum of Leather Crafts 36 Postigo de la Leche 12
Museum of San Vicente 12 Pottery in Madinat al-Zahra 15
Muslim Alcazar 7,14,18,19 Prices (Restaurants) 43
Muslim Suburbs 17 Priego 33,34,49
Muzayna 11 Public Toilets (Useful Information) 55
N Q
Nazari Kingdom of Granada 33 Qibla Wall 10
Nero 31,32,37 R
Nicephorus Phocas 10 Rabo de Toro (Oxtail stew) 40 ,42
Night Cinemas (Nightlife) 52 Real Circulo de la Amistad 29
North Gate (Madinat al-Zahra) 14 Rebajas (Shopping) 47
O Regina Museum 37
Octavian Augustus 6,8 Religion 4
Official Language 4,55,57 RENFE 3,56
Old Church of Santo Domingo 21,22 Rent a Car (Useful Information) 55
Old Major Chapel 11 Reserve (Restaurants) 43
Old Town Police Station 4,56 Restaurants 43
Olive & Olive Oil 41 Ricardo Molina 37
Opening Hours 4, 56 Rodrigo de Triana 19
Opening Hours (Restaurants) 43 Roman Amphitheater 9
Opening Hours (Shopping) 47 Roman Bridge 7,17,18,20,36,46,51,54
Orange Tree Courtyard 10,11,12,13,50, Roman Circus 8
Oratory 11,12,13,15,25 Roman Civil War 6,7
Orchestra 9 Roman Theatre 9, 35
Order of Calatrava 33 Ronda de los Tejares Avenue 27,28,29,41,48,49
Ordo Equest 8 Royal Baths (Alcazar) 19
Otters 7 Royal Chapel 11
P Royal Stable Show 51
Palace Gate 13 Royal Stables 20
Palace of Maximian Herculeo/ Herculean
Maximian Palace
7, 8 Ruy Velazquez 17
INDEX

S Tapas 26,31,39, 42,43
Sabat 11 Tapas Bar 26, 42
Sacred Heart of Jesus 25 Tariq 9
Sagrario Chapel 12 Tartessian civilization 6
Saint Ildephonsus Gate 13 Turdetanos 7
Saint Stephen Gate 12 Taxes & Tips (Restaurants) 43
Sales (Shopping) 47 Taxes (Shopping) 47
Salmorejo 40 ,42,43,44 Taxis 4
San Agustin Church 23 Tendillas Square 6,8,21,27,29,39,44,46,48,51,56
San Clemente Museum 12 Tendillas Square & New Year´s Eve 27
San Francisco Church (Priego) 34 Tetrarchy 8
San Jacinto Hospital - De los Dolores
Church
22 The Great Portico (Madinat al-Zahra) 14
San Lorenzo Church 23 The Hermitages 24
San Rafael Monument 20 The Legend of the Orive Palace 21
San Rafael Bridge 7,8 The Military House (Madinat al-Zahra) 14
Sangría 41
The Mosque and the construction of
the Cathedral
11
Santa Catalina School (Real Escuelas Pias) 21 ,22 The Mosque Night Show 50
Santa Maria 19
The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III
(Madinat al-Zahra)
15
Santa Marina Church 22 ,23 The Royal House (Madinat al-Zahra) 15
Santa Victoria Church 21 ,22 The Virgin and the Angel Statue 13
Saqqifas 10 Tiberiades Square 26
Saqunda 17 Tiberius 8
Sassanid Tradition 10 Tinto de Verano 41
Scaena 9 Tips 4,43
Sebastián Vidal 13 Titus 25
Seneca 7,16,31,35,51 Tomas Jerónimo de Pedrajas 13
Sephardic House 26 ,27, Tomas Zumalacárregui 40
Seville April Fair 39 Tortilla de Patatas (Spanish Omelet) 40
Shopping Streets 48 Tourist Offices 4,6
Siege and Conquest of Cordoba 18 Tower of Homage (Alcazar) 18,19
Sierra Morena 24,47 Tower of Homage (Almodovar) 33
Sierra Nevada (Granada) 25 Tower of Lions 18,19
Sierras Subbéticas (Zuheros) 34 Tower of the School (Almodovar) 33
Smoking & Alcohol (Useful Information) 54 Trade Union Building 29
Socibus 3,56 Train Station 6,9,28,29,46,47,48,51,55,56
Solea 39 Trajan 8
Souks 1, 17 Treasury Department Building 29
Spanish Guitar 39 Treasury of the Cathedral 12
Spanish Ham (Jamón Serrano) 40 ,41,49 Triumphal Arch 4,7,8,20
Spanish Omelet (Tortilla de patatas) 40 ,42,43 Tubo (Beer) 41
Springtime Explosion 31
Tunnel between the Mosque and
Madinat al-Zahra
13
Square of the Colt 20 ,36 TV & Press (Useful Information) 54
St. Catherine Gate 13 U
St. Francis of Assisi 22 Urban Buses 4
St. Sophia 10 Useful Information 4
Synagogue 16, 25,26,56 Useful Information (Nightlife) 52
T Useful Phone Numbers 56
Taifas 33 Ustrinum 8
INDEX

V
Vandals 6
Velazquez Bosco Street 26
Veterinary Faculty 9
Viana Palace 23,24,38
Viana Palace Museum 38
Victory Gardens 28
Villaseca Family 24
Vintage & Alternative Music 50
Visigothic Basilica 12
Visigoths 6,9,10,25
Visitor Reception Center 6
W
Water 41
What to take (Useful Information) 54
Who are they? 31
Wudu 11
Yafar House (House) 15
Z
Zoomorphic Figure (Madinat al-Zahra) 16
INDEX
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