Córdoba
What's it like in Córdoba?
Just 90 minutes from the Costa del Sol, in the heart of Spain’s richest cultural area, Córdoba is home to several of Europe’s most breathtaking ancient monuments, and in May decks itself in a profusion of flowers, making it the perfect time to visit this spectacular city!
Córdoba’s magnificent, world-famous mosque is, of course, one of the greatest wonders of Spain and a must, even if you’re only in town for a few short hours. The third largest Muslim temple in the world, it was described by well-known author and hispanophile Gerald Brenan (once a resident of Alhaurín El Grande), as "the most beautiful and original building in Spain". Founded by Abderraman I, La Mezquita is unique not only for its awe-inspiring architecture and signature red- and grey-striped, two-tiered arches, creating a stunning visual effect, but also for the fact that it does not face Mecca, but instead Damascus, reflecting its founder’s nostalgia for Syria.
The Mosque is a clue to the rich and varied historical legacy of Córdoba. Founded by the Romans in 169 BC and invaded by the Moors in 711 AD, during its headiest period - the IX and X centuries – Córdoba was Islam’s third most important place of pilgrimage after Mecca and Jerusalem. The largest, richest and most highly cultured
European city of its time, Córdoba was a place where Christians, Moors and Jews lived in harmony. It was the birthplace of countless philosophers, scientists, artists and scholars and - so it is said - is the home of the most beautiful women in Andalucía!
In Roman times, the mighty River Guadalquivir was navigable as far inland as Córdoba, making the city a major port from which olive oil, wine and wheat were shipped back to ancient Rome. And although now silted up at this point, Córdoba’s strategic location as a natural crossroads between Madrid and Andalucía, and southeast and southwest Spain, echoes its unique past as a bridge turning the spanning of both cultures and religions into an art form.
But while the imposing splendour of Córdoba’s architecture may be one of the reasons to visit the city, it’s the small houses and hidden terraces that take centre stage in May during the Festival de los Patios. Both the Romans and the Moors had little difficulty in adapting their traditional style of houses, as both featured courtyards as an integral part of the building. Fountains and plants in the centre of the patios provided coolness - essential in a city such as Córdoba, where temperatures can almost go off the thermometer - as well as light, air, water and vegetation. And the types of flowers and plants found around the patios are breathtaking, including jasmine, carnations, roses, geraniums and lemon and orange trees.
Life in Córdoba revolves around the patio. It takes on many roles – a meeting place, a venue for celebrations and parties, or simply somewhere for the children to play. It also acts as a refuge from the stress of city living, not to mention offering shelter from the fierce Córdoba temperatures, reaching well over 40°C in summer! The Concurso de Patios, or Patio Competition, takes place every year during the second and third weeks of May, and the patios, many of which are privately owned, are open to the public throughout the event. Prizes are awarded in various categories, including the best balcony and the best wrought iron railing display.
The proud owners devote many hours of work to ensure that they are at their finest and, in common with the best traditions of London’s world-renowned Chelsea Flower Show – enhance their displays with carefully chosen decorations such as colourful local ceramics. In addition, a music festival is held in Córdoba at the same time, with the patios providing a spectacular backdrop for flamenco musicians, singers and dancers, while the audience enjoy local wine and tapas. With such an intoxicating blend of sights, sounds and perfumes, Córdoba in May is a heady combination, yet with its awe-inspiring architecture, countless places of interest and fabulous regional cuisine, is well worth a visit at any other time of year.
VIVA TOP TIPS
*While six-packs and bare midriffs are a way of life on the Costa del Sol, in some inland regions they can still cause offence. However hot the weather, it’s best to respect local traditions by covering up with a T-shirt or loose top (which will also protect you from UV rays).
*When sightseeing in Andalucía, don’t forget to pack your camera, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and plenty of bottled water.
*There’s a wide range of overnight accommodation for all tastes and budgets in Córdoba and the surrounding area. If you’re planning a visit between late April (The Battle of the Flowers is celebrated on the 29th) and the end of May (Floral Crosses: 1st to 5th; Romería de Linares: 4th; and Festival of Patios: 6th to 18th)… book ahead!
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Tourist Offices:
Tel: (+34) 902 201 774 / (+34) 957 491 678
Official Córdoba Website:
www.turismodecordoba.com
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