Córdoba is unlike other popular Spanish destinations like Madrid and Barcelona. The city’s history and breathtaking architecture mirror its blend of Moorish and Christian influences giving it a distinct character. The Sunday Times has recently crowned it as Europe’s best city break destination. Córdoba is the capital of Andalusia and is widely known for its incredible Mezquita-Catedral of Córdoba – a UNESCO World heritage site rich in beauty and history.
Originally a mosque, the Mezquita-Catedral was converted into a cathedral in 1236 following the Reconquista, with expansions added in the 16th century. One of its most striking features is its forest of columns, crowned by red-and-white striped arches in the traditional horseshoe shape of Islamic architecture- columns that are recognised across the world.
With a Mediterranean climate, the city enjoys warm temperatures and mild winters, averaging 19°C in March, and experiences the highest summer temperatures in Spain and Europe.
According to nomadseason.com, temperatures can get as high as 28C in March on warmer days.
Throughout the year, Córdoba enjoys over 300 days of sun.
The multiple religions, cultures, and civilizations that have lived in this fascinating city are reflected in its fascinating architecture and food.
Founded by the Romans, the city was later ruled by the Visigoths and then became the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate and Europe’s second-largest city by the 10th century.
The city was then taken by Christian forces in 1236 and integrated into the Kingdom of Castile.
Other notable attractions include the Roman Bridge, built in the 1st century BC and reconstructed multiple times, and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval fortress and former residence of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II, which also served as a seat for the Spanish Inquisition.
The Roman Bridge has 16 arches and has been a witness to many revolts and historical events throughout the years and was even featured in the famous series, Game of Thrones, as the Bridge of Volantis from season five.
The city is also known for its colourful cobblestone streets, balconies, flowery patios, and gardens, as well as its local dishes that reflect its past, such as salmorejo, a traditional cold tomato soup, rabo de toro, a hearty oxtail stew, and aubergines drizzled in honey, all of which showcase the influence of Roman, Muslim, and Jewish culinary traditions.
