Europe - Spain, Cordoba - Hola - Andalusia - September 2018

Cordoba, Spain

Today is Monday, September 24, 2018; it is the 10th day of Spain's 15-day tour. Spain did not disappoint; it has been a fantastic, historically architectural masterpiece. Each day I tell myself, how can it get any better - but each Region we have visited in Spain offers more great art and architecture.

Córdoba, also called Cordova in English, is a city in Andalusia, southern Spain, and Córdoba.

The Mezquita or Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba

The Great Mosque in Cordoba started in 785 by Abd al-Rahman II; the building is a temple and monument.

The Mosque of Córdoba was the biggest one globally once all the extensions were concluded in the tenth century. More than 20,000 people could fit inside, and it was declared World Heritage in 1984. 

It was a revolutionary structure of its time.

There are 850 columns in total.

The effect of the sunlight

filters to the halls

The sheer scale, colors, and architectural details are visually overwhelming.

Córdoba returned to Christian rule in 1236 during the Reconquista, and part of the building was converted to a Roman Catholic church. Part of the mosque was destroyed to accommodate the cathedral.

It is commonly believed that the site of the Mosque-Cathedral was initially a Christian church.

Papa Francisco

The combination of typical Mosque architecture with Christian symbols is impressive.

Christian and Islamic influences coexist throughout this complex building.

In the middle of the Mezquita, you’ll discover the Renaissance chancel. 

And majestic choir stalls.

The Mezquita Belltower, The Torre de Alminar is 93m high and was built on the original minaret site.

The Roman Bridge of Cordoba

built-in the early 1st century BC across the Guadalquivir river

Easy walk across the bridge

View from the side

There is still a “Jewish Quarter” in Córdoba, which includes a medieval synagogue

Maimonides, the great 12h Century Jewish scholar and physician was from Cordoba.

Patio and Courtyard, cobbled streets and flower pots

Each May since 1918, The Patios Festival is sponsored by the Cordoba City Hall.

There are many patios and courtyards filled with

Colorful flowers, stone mosaics, and ceramic decorations are everywhere!

Inviting Courtyard

We are here in September, but there are still many colorful patios to be seen.

We had a wonderful day in Cordoba; who knew a great Moorish City and home to the Mesquita would be so enjoyable, spectacular, and unforgettable.