Out & About

» Out & About in Córdoba

Córdoba is broken into two sections:  The Old Jewish Quarter and the Mezquita.  Tourists will want to plan enough time to thoroughly explore both areas.  With many buildings to peruse and many shops to visit, you will need a few days to take it all in.

Churches & Historical Monuments:

The Mezquita, originally constructed in the 700s, is a grand mosque filled with things to do and see.  The Mezquita is open from 10:00 pm to 7:30 pm in April and June.  From July to October, the hours are 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.  In November and February, the Mezquita is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.  Finally, the months of December and January reduces the open hours to 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. Church services are held at 9:30 am on Monday through Saturday and at 11:00 am 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm on Sundays and holidays.  There is a lot to experience, so plan at least a full day in this section of Córdoba.

• Capilla de Villaviciosa is a Christian chapel erected in the 1300s. Located in the centre of the Mezquita, the church’s architectural details are not to be missed.
• Mihrab is a small area where pilgrims prayed. It used to hold a gilt copy of the Koran. Today, the prayer area is viewed for its artistic details.
• The scent of orange trees pleases those who spend time in the Patio de los Naranjos. This large courtyard was once the bathing area for many people.
• Puerta del Perdón was built in the 14th century by the Moors. This huge gate provides the entrance into the Mezquita. This is the area historically where sinners received forgiveness.
• The remnants of a Visigothic church form the Puerta de San Esteban. This archway adds another means of entry into the Mezquita.
• Torre del Alminar is the mosque’s bell tower. Standing over 90 meters tall, the bell tower is erected from the original mosque’s tower. A series of steep staircases bring tourists to the top of the tower that offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside.

In the old Jewish quarter, you will find many suitable activities.  This area of Córdoba deserves a few days of your time.

• Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos is a 14th century palace that housed many monarchs over the years. The basement level Roman Baths are worth viewing. Huge outdoor gardens house impressive fountains and water features. Bring your camera!
• Callejón de las Flores is a small alley that has geraniums spilling from window boxes. The bright geraniums add colour to the alley that is lined with whitewashed homes. Callejón de las Flores leads to a small town square.
• Capilla de San Bartolomé is a Moorish church that features elaborate decorations.
• La Puerta de Almodavar connects the old Jewish Quarter with the rest of Córdoba. The gate features a statue of Seneca, a Latin philosopher.
• Molino de la Albolafia sits on the banks of the Rio Guadalquivir. This ancient watermill has been renovated and is open to visitors.
• Palacio Episcopal is the home of the tourism offices. You can find more information regarding the area there.
• Palacio de Viana is the 17th century manor home of the Viana family. The gardens are full of fragrant flowering trees. Inside, many period furnishings and works of art are on display.
• Puente Romano is an ancient Roman bridge that spans the Rio Guadalquivir. Some of the bridge has been updated, but the footings date back to the early Romans.
• The 14th century Sinagoga’s walls are covered in Hebrew script. Located in the old Jewish Quarters, the synagogue is one of only three in all of Spain.

Dining:

The cuisine in Córdoba is delightful. There are dozens of restaurants from which you can choose, but it is well worth your time and money to head to one of the patio restaurants where the menu changes daily.

Bar Restaurant Milá serves traditional Cordoban fare. The oxtail stew is tender and succulent while the house gazpacho with chunks of Spanish ham is remarkable.

Restaurant Cafetin Halal is a suitable choice for someone wanting to try something different. This Islamic restaurant offers meals suitable for vegetarians.

Taberna Santa Clara has a large patio for outside dining. The staff are friendly, and you will find the portions are large while prices are reasonable.

Festivals:

During the first three days of May, Cruces de Mayo occurs. Townspeople use flowers to decorate large crosses in hopes of winning the yearly competition. Visitors are welcome to view the crosses.

The Patios Cordobeses takes place from the 4th of May to the 16th of May. Area residents decorate their patios with a variety of sculptures and flowers. You can view the patios while strolling through the town. Most homeowners shut their patios while they are at work.

Finally, the Feria de Cordoba takes place at the end of May. This fair welcomes the arrival of summer. The activities line the southeastern side of Córdoba, along the riverbanks.

Museums:

Four museums are located within Córdoba. You will want to view them all.

• Museo Arqueológico is tucked into one of the area’s mansions. The museum offers many items for display including Roman artwork, pottery, and artifacts left behind by the Moors.
• Museo de Ballas Artes is a former hospital that is now an art museum. The museum features the works of local artist, Mateo Inurria who died in 1924. The museum is closed on Mondays and open limited hours the rest of the week.
• Museo Regina honors the area’s esteemed jewelers. Guided tours are held Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. On Saturday and Sunday, the hours are 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
• Museo Taurino is a museum dedicated to bullfighting. Inside, you will find a copy of Manolete’s tomb of Manolete, a famous bullfighter. Also inside the museum is the mounted head from the bull that killed Manolete. The museum is open from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the winters. In the summer months, the hours change to 9:30 am to 2:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Outdoor Activities:

Cordoba Country Club opened in 1976. This 18-hole golf course is located a short distance from the city. The course is tucked into the mountains, so do not expect your game to be on flat terrain! Drinks are allowed on the course. A restaurant and bar are also on the premise for after your game.

Shopping:

A daily open-air market is held at Plaza de la Corredera. The 17th century square is fun to view, but also perfect for those looking for a few handmade goods for a reasonable price.

The area is also populated by jewellery makers. Head to Plaza de Tendillas for some amazing silversmith boutiques.

A number of artisans make their living within Córdoba. You can find handmade guitars, jewellery, leather goods, pottery, and handmade hats in many area boutiques and at the open-air markets. Be sure to spend some time looking for deals.