Still in Andalusia, in this new article I'll take you on a tour of Cordoba ! We'll be diving into the heart of the magnificent city of Cordoba, Spain, to explore one of its most emblematic treasures: the Cathedral Mosque of Cordobaalso known as the "Mezquita " . Let's embark on this visual adventure right away and discover this architectural gem together.
Presentation of Cordoba
Cordoba is the 3ieme Cordoba is the second largest city in Andalusia (after Seville and Málaga), on the banks of the Guadalquivir (like Seville) and at the foot of the Sierra Morena, a mountainous region as you head north. Rich in culture and history (Roman, Arab, Christian), Cordoba is very well known thanks to the " Mezquita of Cordoba" a building listed as a World Heritage Site.
Córdoba dates back to antiquity, underwent the Roman Empire before crossing the Middle Ages to become the seat of Arab power until 1147. The city shines during the 10th century as the capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba before losing its importance to Seville in the 12th century.e century. Finally, it was Ferdinand III of Castile who conquered Cordoba in 1236.
Cordoba is the city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site more times than any otherThe city is famous for its historic centre, its mosque-cathedral and the Patio Festival.
La Mesquita de Cordoba
History of La Mesquita
The Mesquita was originally a Roman temple then became a Visigothic Christian basilica between the IVe and VIIIe century. La Mesquita later became a mosque during the Muslim presence between the 8th and 12th centuries.e and XIIIe century. It eventually became a Catholic cathedral in 1236.
Having said that, the monument has been for a short time a Catholic church during a brief reconquest during the Reconquista by King Alfonso VII in May 1146.
And it's more exactly 29th June 1236the date on which it was dedicated cathedral. In the XVIe century that the "major chapel" was built. in order to distinguish it from other older chapels also located in the building.
Cordoba is also famous for its magnificent Jewish quarter, the Judería, with its narrow streets and flower-filled patios. The town is also home to many other historic monuments, including the Roman bridge of Cordoba and the Alcázar of the Christian kings.
Visitors can also lose themselves in the city's charming squares and shady gardens. Cordoba offers a unique cultural experience, blending the influence of different eras and civilisations. It's impossible not to be captivated by the beauty and richness of this Andalusian city.
Architecture and design
As you will have gathered, the Mesquita is one of the most representative monuments in Spanish history. It is the architectural testimony of the entire dynasty of Umayyad emirs and caliphs who ruled Andalusia. A fusion of styles and techniques reflecting all the influences of these different cultures.
As you approach the building, you'll have the impression that you're approaching aa fortress with high crenellated walls reinforced by buttresses. Near the entrance you can't miss the bell tower which you will find at the exit, as you pass by in the Patio des Orangers. (splendid patio, take a deep breath of its fragrances 😍)
Once inside, you won't know which way to turn, hundreds of columns everywhere Forming naves, (I didn't count them 😆 ) but its columns and vaults will encourage you to listen to the audio guide to understand the different stages of their creation.
In fact, as mentioned above, there were several successive constructions. The monolithic columns were first built in the Visigothic or Roman period, after which the construction was heightened. by the Umayyad caliphs, giving us these double-tiered arcadesto give this large room more height.
The mosque was extended at least twice to the south, and then a final time to the east in its history. Still inside, you will pass the Mihrab, which before this latest extension was located in the centre on the longitudinal axis of this great hall. It is now the Chapelle Sainte Thérèse (Saint Theresa's Chapel), located in the central axis. But other chapels such as the Tabernacle Chapel, the Royal Chapel and the Chapel of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción are also worth exploring.
I'm sure you'll agree that there's plenty to marvel at and marvel at in the face of so much beauty!
Visiting Cordoba and the surrounding area
La Mesquita is Cordoba's must-see, but the city itself and its narrow streets are well worth a visit. There are some very nice souvenir shops, delicious restaurants and, above all, flower-filled patios everywhere. Be careful, though, as these may open at the end of the day in the warmer months. Don't visit the alleyways too early in the afternoon or you may have to wait a few hours.😉
If you're a nature lover, you can also venture north of Cordoba and enjoy the city's natural beauty. mountainous landscape and cork oak forests.
That's it for this third instalment on Andalusia, with a little sunshine to usher in what is still a very mild autumn!
Have you ever visited Andalusia? Don't hesitate to leave your tourist experience in the comments below. To find out more about Andalusia, please visit read Granada and Seville and to visit my photo gallery and the limited series.
I look forward to seeing you on my blog,
David
