Cordoba is a mid-sized city of 350,000 people. Very few places in the world can boast of having been the capital of a Roman province (Hispania Ulterior), the capital of an Arab State (Al-Andalus) and a Caliphate. This ancient city was the political and intellectual capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba since the advent of Islamic rule from the 8th century. Nestled in a valley along the Guadalquivir river backed by the Sierra Morena mountains in the noth, it provided strategic defence position enjoying the auspicious energy of the mountain and river.
Under the rule of the Caliph Abderraman the III, it became the centre of education and learning. Under his rule, hundreds of mosques and splendid palaces were builtd, and an irrigation system for agriculture and infrastructure was developed. Cordoba was at the zenith of its importance in that era, but id did not survive the march of time. It soon declined in importance but its legacy lives on, and today, UNESCO lists its historic centre as a World Heritage Site. One of the most magnificent legacies of Moorish architecture is the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba.
The Mosque went through four stages of transformation by various Islamic rulers. It became the centre of not only religious but also cultural, social and political activities. When King Ferdinand III reconquered Cordoba in 1236, it was consecrated as a Catholic Cathedral. Walking through the Cathedral it is like walking through a timeline of Moorish rule and Christian reconquest. It is a breathtaking piece of architectural wonder created by skilled Byzantine artisans and architects.
But Córdoba is also the colour and the smell of flowers from its stunning courtyards and gardens, whitewashed walls with small clay pots dripping with trailing geraniums and bougainvillea.
Córdoba is a unique and captivating creature that you need to discover!
This day trip is focused on a walking tour of aprx 3hours around the historic center of Cordoba, including a guided visit to the Mosque-Cathedral, the Jewish quarter and the Royal Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs. As a special treat during Spring time the experience in Cordoba will be completed with a visit to some of the most authentic and traditional private courtyards which will be contesting at “Patios Festival” in May, recently declared by Unesco as “Intangible Cultural Heritage.
What’s included
— Private transport in our modern fleet of Mercedes (wifi and water)
– Experienced chauffeurs
– 3 h guided tour with fully licensed art historian guide.
– All entrance tickets (Mosque, Alcazar and Patios)
– 3 hours of free time to have lunch, shopping or visit other sites and museums at leisure
– Time duration: 10 h. including the transfer.
– Travel insurance
– We recommend comfortable shoes