La Mezquita de Cordoba - Cordoba, Spain
What is it - 1,000 years ago Cordoba was the second largest city in the Western world with a population of close to a half million people. For close to 400 years thereafter, Cordoba was highly regarded for its culture and science since the city had numerous libraries, street lighting and a tolerant government by medieval standards.
After Islamic ruler Abd-al Rahman III declared himself the caliph of the southern portion of modern-day Spain known as Al Andalus in 929 AD, he built a palace to serve as his new capital outside of Cordoba and also commissioned an expansion of the Grand La Mezquita mosque. This huge complex of courtyards, gardens, orange groves and buildings became the defining landmark and the star attraction for the city mostly because of its architectural and engineering features.
La Mezquita is renowned for its 856 candy stripe arches which support the building as well as its bell tower and skylights. They provide a visual spectacle that is unforgettable. Visitors also marvel at the grand architectural design and the intricate workmanship of the interior prayer halls and domes.
Just when you think you have seen it all, there is a real surprise. Built within the walls of the original La Mezquita mosque is a huge Christian cathedral which was constructed in 1523 by King Carlos V after the reconquest of Spain by the Catholic monarchies. The silver altar, priceless mahogany woodwork and artistry of these Christian structures and paintings is impressive, but it can seem confusing and out of place in these surroundings.
The complex stands at the center of the city surrounded by shops, restaurants, several palaces, and the narrow merchant streets of the old Town. In these close quarters it is sometimes difficult to appreciate the enormity of the structure which rivals the Church of Notre Dame in Paris or the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. To fully enjoy the experience, a good place to begin your sightseeing is at the medieval tower on the far side of the Guadalquivir River and then approach the old town by walking across the Puente Romano or Roman bridge.
Interesting Facts - It is believed that the original mosque at the site was constructed in 786. However, the site has a long history as a religious center. The Romans had a large temple there and the Visigoth rulers of the 5th century built an early church on top of the temple.
How to Get there – Cordorba is centrally located in Spain but most important it is a stop on several of the high-speed train routes which crisscross the country. So, while there is enough to do in the City to merit an overnight stay, a day trip from Madrid, Malaga on the coast, or Seville is easily pursued. They are also Iberian airline flights to Cordoba from major Spanish locations.
When to Go - Although winters are mild, rain and chill is common from December into early March making spring and the fall the best times to visit. Summertime is dry and temperatures can easily rise to 100° so prepare or grab a nearby hotel room to cool off throughout the day if you are going to explore during that season.