Cordoba
was once one of the greatest cities of the
medieval world, even challenging
Constantinople
with its extraordinary palaces and mosques – the grandest of which, the
Mezquita, is still one of the wonders of Europe. Now, the city is smaller than its
Andalusian
neighbors such as
Granada and Seville,
which in a way makes it far more appealing and charming.
The main attractions are easily accessible on foot, wandering among the squares of the old town, the narrow streets of the ancient Jewish quarter, Cordoba
is renowned for its extensive selection of tapas bars, where you’re as likely to be surrounded by locals as tourists. Extremely hot in the summer, Cordoba’s climate is at its best in autumn and spring.
The most important feature of Cordoba is the Mezquita (Mosque)
which after the re-conquest of Andalusia by the Christians, a Renaissance cathedral
was constructed rather unusually and open plan in the center of the Mosque. The Roman Bridge
over the River Guadalquivir
offers the opportunity to walk across and gaze back for a terrific view of the medieval town of Cordoba.