Córdoba

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Welcome to Cordoba!

Cordoba is the eleventh largest city in Spain and ranks third in Andalucía after Seville and Malaga. The city has a population of 328,000 inhabitants and the region reaches about 850,000 if counting all the inhabitants living in the province. Over the years, the city has developed enormously and modern infrastructures have been built to adapt Cordoba to the twenty-first century, including High Speed Train, bike lanes, modern urban buses, a new beltway, wide boulevards… If we take a look back at the History of the city, visitors should know that Cordoba has a unique Historical Legacy. The city was founded by the Roman Empire in 169 BC. Shortly after, Cordoba became one of the most important metropolises of the Roman Empire. In the eighth century Arabs conquered the Iberian Peninsula and the Caliph chose Cordoba to be the capital of the Caliphate of Al-Andalus. Thanks to this strategic decision, Cordoba became one of the most important cities in the World during the Mid Ages. During that time, Cordoba experienced a unique moment in its history: philosophers, theologians,

viziers, Kings etc. filled its streets. Souks (markets), huge palaces and public baths were built to meet the needs of a capital as important as Cordoba. The old quarter (Judería) of the city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1994. This certification has helped enormously to preserve part of this amazing historical legacy. In short, if you decide to visit Cordoba you will enjoy fantastic Roman ruins, ancient Arab remains, the beautiful old Jewish quarter and gorgeous catholic churches in a wonderful journey to the past. Whatever you do, wherever you go in Cordoba you will receive a very warm welcome that reveals a tradition of courtesy, respect and hospitality. We hope this travel guide, written by local people, will help you to discover the essence of a city that during thousands of years was one of the most important cities in Europe.

CORDOBA

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Editor´s note… … ….

Our team is open to new suggestions and comments from all readers. If you wish to contact us you can send an email to: [email protected] Mundo Guides assumes no responsibility for changes and errors in the information.

Copyright Notice …. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher andcopyright owner.

Chief Editor Javier Redondo [email protected] Layout & Design Javier Redondo Advertising Director Tatiana Benidovskaya [email protected] Administration Manager Ricardo Molina

Arriving

3

Getting Around

4

What to visit

6

Roman Cordoba 7

Islamic Cordoba 9

Christian Cordoba 18

Jewish Cordoba 25

Modern Cordoba 27

Daytrips

33

Gastronomy

40

Where to stay

45

Diputacion Building

Priego de Cordoba

Museum &

Culture 35

Shopping

47

Entertainment

50

Nightlife

51

Useful

Information 54

Basic Words

57

Cordoba Mosque

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n recent years Cordoba has developed a remarkable transportation infrastructure and has become one of the best connected cities in Andalusia.

All these infrastructure improvements have allowed the city to enter the twenty-first century, boosting business and tourism.

By Car Spain has a radial highway design whose epicenter is located in Madrid. The vast majority of these highways are free unlike other European countries. Generally highways in Spain are in a very good state of preservation and are completely safe. The main access to Cordoba is the A4 Highway, also known as Andalusia Highway, which connects the center of Spain (Madrid) with Andalusia. Another important access is the Highway N-432 which connects the cities of Badajoz and Granada, via Cordoba. Time of journey: Madrid: A4 Highway. Duration of trip: 4 hours. Seville: A4 Highway. Duration of trip: 1 hour and 30 minutes. Malaga: N-331 Highway. Duration of trip: 2 hours.

By Bus Bus is usually the cheapest option compared to the train or plane. However, the proliferation of low cost airlines is multiplying your options when traveling: you can travel to Seville by plane and from there taking a bus to Cordoba. Generally, bus companies have modern fleets that pass rigorous security checks. Besides, all buses have air conditioning, ample legroom and even Wi-Fi access. Thanks to all this, traveling by bus in Spain is a much more enjoyable experience than a few years ago. Cordoba Bus Station, built in 1999, is situated in front of the Train Station, making pretty easy any transfer between train and bus and vice versa. Socibus is the main bus company operating in Cordoba and connects Madrid with Cordoba for a price about €30 (return ticket). If you need to go directly to the Airport in Madrid, Socibus sells tickets from Cordoba to Madrid-Barajas Airport. Other major destinations are: Barcelona, Cadiz, Bilbao, Benidorm, Malaga, etc. Main bus companies arriving and departing from Cordoba are: Carrera (www.autocarescarrera.es) , Alsa (www.alsa.es), Rafael Ramirez (www.autocaresramirez.es), Socibus (www.socibus.es) ,

Autos Lopez (www.autotransportelopez.com) , Union Bus (www.unionbus.com) and LineSur (www.linesur.com).

By Plane Cordoba Airport currently does not accept regular flights, but refurbishment works are being carried out and it’s expected to open in the near future. At present, the airport is used just for a few charter flights, military flights, aerial photography, flying courses and other aerial works. The nearest international Airports are Seville, Malaga and Madrid.

By Train Train is, undoubtedly, the best and quickest way to get to the city. When the Spanish government decided to build the High Speed Train (1992) from Madrid to Seville via Cordoba, the city finally entered the 21st century. Until then, the only way to get to Cordoba was by car after a five hour drive from Madrid. In the years that followed, the Government invested large amounts of money into creating one of the best and fastest railway networks in the world. Length of journey: Madrid: 1hour 45 minutes Seville: 40 minutes Malaga: 1hour Barcelona: 4hours 50 minutes High Speed Trains are called AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) and can reach more than 300km /h (200 miles hour). These modern trains have 7 passenger wagons and a bar-cafeteria where you can have a drink or buy a sandwich. When demand is too high, two trains can be linked, multiplying capacity. Punctuality is other of the main features of this train. If the train is delayed more than five minutes for reasons within its control, the company returns the money to passengers. Besides AVE, there are also cheaper trains that connect Cordoba with other important cities such as Cadiz, Huelva or Granada. Tickets, Schedules and Further Information: www.renfe.es Cordoba Train Station is one of the most crowded in Andalusia (3 million passengers per year), due in large part to the lack of airport, and has modern facilities including restaurants, news-stand, gourmet shops, cafeteria, fashion shops, etc. If you need to catch a bus to visit some of the wonderful villages around Cordoba, the Bus Station is just opposite.

I

Almería 360 km. 223 miles

Cádiz 263 km. 163 miles

Granada 201 km. 124,9 miles

Huelva 236 km. 146 miles

Jaén 107 km. 66,5 miles

Málaga 159 km. 98 miles

Sevilla 142 km. 88 miles

Madrid 399 km. 247 miles

Barcelona 878 km. 545 miles

Valencia 520 km. 323 miles

Badajoz 265 km. 164 miles

Ciudad Real 184 km. 114.3 miles

CORDOBA

Cordoba Train Station

Distances from Cordoba

Arriving

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Urban Buses

Cordoba has an excellent bus service: 16 bus lines that connect the neighborhoods with downtown and 4 lines linking the capital with small outlying districts. Bus routes are known by the number on the front of the bus. Buses are running from 6:00 to 23:00. Unfortunately, during the night taxi is the only option to get around. Ticket are sold directly by the driver and costs €1.15 (basic fare). Try to pay the exact amount because drivers do not accept big euro banknotes. This ticket allows you to change your line within one hour. There are also ten-trip tickets which cost €6.60. These tickets (“bonobus”) are sold at licensed tobacco shops and news-stands and must be validated inside the bus. In some downtown bus stops there are screens that show the estimated time for the next bus. (www.aucorsa.es)

Taxis The city has 500 taxis, running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Taxis are white with sticker advertising on the doors, together with the official number. When the customer gets in the car, the taximeter marks €1.48 and the lowest price to pay (basic fare) for each service is €3.81. Night fare (from 22:00 to 6:00), Saturdays, Sunday and Bank Holidays the prices change to €1.84 and €4.75 respectively. There are many taxi stops around downtown and the old town but you can also hail from street at the same rate. Calling a taxi is an option as well, mention to the operator if you want to pay by credit card as not all taxis have card-reading equipment (+34957764444). www.radiotaxicordoba.com If you are planning to have some fun and return late at night, the only option to come back to your hotel is by taxi as public buses are running until 23:00. Generally, taxi drivers do not have a very high level of English, so it would be convenient to show the address written on a piece of paper. Additional Charges: From Train Station €0.53 Airport €7.72 Packets above 60 cm €0.51 Pets €1.06

Cycling Cordoba has over 50 km of bike lanes and its infrastructure is expected to grow in the coming years up to 72 km. This makes the city a perfect place to ride a bike and discover every nook and cranny of Cordoba avoiding traffic jams. Despite this great infrastructure, the number of public bicycles to rent is quite low. Some private companies cover this demand by renting bikes and offering tours for visitors in several languages. www.solobici.net

Horse-drawn Carriages These romantic vehicles enable you to discover spots where motor vehicle access is restricted. Every day more and more tourists choose this ecological mean of transport to explore the city and discover beautiful corners practically inaccessible by car or bus. The approximate cost is €40 for one hour. You will find horse-drawn carriages stops near Fortress of Christian Kings and in front of San Rafael Monument, near Triumphal Arch. Phone Number: 957 200 522.

CORDOBA

Useful Information

Population: 320.000

Local Time: Central European

Official Language: Spanish

Local Currency: €

Measurement System: Metric System

Religion: Secular State. 70% of the population is

Catholic.

Dailing Code: 0034 957

Electricity Supply: 220V

Emergency Telephone Number: 112

Old Town Police Station: Address Calle Juda Leví s/n

(tel: 957290760).

Taxes: 21% (Shopping) 10% (Hotels& Rest.)

Tourist Offices: Campo Santo de los Mártires s/n. (Tel:

902 201 774) & Plaza de las Tendillas, s/n. (Tel:

957491677).

Official Web: www.turismodecordoba.org/

Cordoba Card: Discounts in sights, museums, public

transport etc. (6 different types to choose from €15 to

€43).

Guided Tours: Cordoba Vision (Tel: 957231734)

Train Station: Address Glorieta de last tres Culturas

(Tel: 957764676).

Central Post Office: Address: Cruz Conde. (Tel:

957479196)

Tips: Not compulsory.

Bank Holidays: January 1st

, January 6th

, February 28th

,

Good Friday , May 1st

, August 15th

, September 8th

,

October 12th

, October 24th

, November 1st

, December

6th

, December 8th

, December 25th

.

Opening Hours: Malls & Departments Stores from

10am to 10pm. Small shops from 10:00 to 13:30/14:00

and from 16:30/17:00 to 21:00 (Closed on Sundays).

Banking Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00/08:30 to

14:00.

Urban Bus

Getting Around

Useful Information

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Wonderful journey into the past

visit to Cordoba means discover one of the world's most important capitals during the Middle Ages. The most famous philosophers, doctors, intellectuals,

government employees, military men and theologians lived in the city, making it one of the most important cultural centers in the world. During these glory days, Cordoba was also an example of coexistence between different cultures, races and religious groups: Muslims, Jews and Christians friendly lived together, respecting each other and providing an example hard to find in the twenty-first century. The Mosque of Cordoba (World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1984) is the most impressive monument in the city. It was built to compete with cities such as Baghdad and Constantinople and gives us an idea of the important role that the city played in the Islamic culture. Small white streets of the Jewry tell us about their past and the significance of the Jewish community for the city of the Caliphs. The Jews represented one of the city's economic engines and held important posts in the city government. The Alcazar of the Christian Kings witnessed major decisions which affected the future of the Spanish Empire: It was here where the Catholic Kings and Columbus met to raise funds for his expedition that led to the discovery of America. Within these walls, the Catholic Monarchs decided to exile millions of Jews living in Spain (1492). But the glorious past of the city didn’t paralyze the social and economic progress. Today Cordoba is a modern and cosmopolitan city, open to the future. The city has experienced an economic boom in recent decades due to - largely - infrastructure improvements and tourism. To visit Cordoba, Mundo-Guides has designed for you various routes following the different cultures that marked the history of the city: Romans, Muslims, Jews and Christians.

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CORDOBA

Almodovar Gate

Eighth century BC: The mysterious Tartessian civilization occupies Andalusia and develops a thriving urban and economic center that they called "Karduba". Year 169 BC: The Roman Prefect Claudius Marcellus founded "Corduba"

Year 45 BC: Julius Caesar besieged the city and massacred the

population during the civil war against Pompey.

Year 27 BC: Octavian Augustus appoints Corduba as "Colonia

Patricia", the highest consideration given to a city in the Roman

Empire. Year 411: Corduba is sacked by Vandals (barbarians from

Northern Europe) who conquered the city and expelled the

Roman armies.

Year 550: The Byzantine Empire conquers the city.

Year 572: The Vandals reconquer the city.

Year 716: Cordoba becomes a province of the Caliphate of Damascus.

Year 756: Abderraman I proclaims the Emirate of Cordoba.

Year 929: Abderraman III establishes the Caliphate of Cordoba.

Year 1235: Cordoba is conquered by the Christian army, led by Fernando III.

Fifteenth Century: Christopher Columbus is in talks with the Catholic Kings in Cordoba to finance his expedition to America.

Seventeenth Century-Nineteenth Century: Cordoba lives a time of economic and cultural decline. At the same time droughts and epidemics ravages the city.

Twentieth Century: The city reawakens after a long slumber. The economy, trade and tourism flourishes.

Tourist Offices & Visitor Reception Center

Cordoba is one of the most visited Spanish cities. In fact, it´s quite difficult to find a tourist circuit in Spain that does not include Cordoba, one of most important and beautiful cities during the Middle Ages. The most numerous tourists in Cordoba are French, Italian, German, Japanese and English. Therefore, you will find information in these languages more easily than others. Tourist Offices are situated both in downtown and old town: Train Station In front of Fortress of the Christian Kings Tendillas Square These Tourist Offices are plenty of useful information for visitors: maps, routes, audio guides, brochures, etc. Near the Mosque has been recently inaugurated the Visitor Reception Center, a modern building which fortunately is in tune with the aesthetics of the old town. During its construction were found numerous archaeological remains from different eras: Romans, Visigoths, Muslims.... Thanks to the great work of the archaeologists, these archaeological remains have been integrated into the building and can be admired by all visitors. Since the opening of this modern Visitor Reception Center, tourists can enjoy a personalized attention and modern technological advances designed to enrich the visit. If you need an Official Guide: http://www.apitcordoba.com/ (957 486 997). Languages: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Japanese. Additional information on sights, cultural information, gastronomy at: http://www.turismodecordoba.org

What to Visit Historical Chronology

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ordoba was founded in 169 B.C. by Roman Prefect Claudius Marcellus who chose this place to build one of the most important cities of the Empire. The city planned by Claudius

Marcellus had an excellent strategic position: near Guadalquivir River and located in the most elevated part of the territory. During the early years, the Romans had to live with indigenous people, called “Turdetanos” but gradually they began to disappear, flourishing the Roman Civilization: natives slowly adopted the Roman way of life and were captivated by the sophisticating Roman culture. Shortly after, Cordoba was named Capital of the Province of Hispania Ulterior and Romans started to build frantically: water supply was improved, the city walls were reinforced and rich mansions were built. However on January 10, 49 B.C. a Civil War broke out between Pompey and Caesar. Cordoba wholeheartedly supported Pompey but unfortunately Caesar won and rose to power: few months later the city suffered terrible reprisals and many people left Cordoba (approximately the population of the city was reduced by 50%). Over the years, Octavian Augustus came to power and Cordoba was declared Colonia Patricia, the highest consideration given to a city after Rome. Since then, Cordoba reached its “Golden Age” and important changes were carried out: the city was repopulated, new neighborhoods and roads were built, new Forums, bridges, temples and circus were constructed, the city boundaries were extended, the first aqueduct in the city became operational and Roman aristocrats built outside the city (at the foot of the mountain) wonderful recreational villas where the wealthy families spent the summer. In the third Century the Roman Empire experienced a deep crisis which was reflected in the city: major works passed away, spaces were reused, looting and riots occurred and poorer quality building materials were widely used. The only major building designed in Cordoba during these years was the Palace of Maximian Herculeo, which will be discussed later.

Roman Bridge

The Romans were a civilization that was constantly at war and therefore were considered to be true experts in building civil works, bridges, city walls, aqueducts... The place where Romans built the Roman Bridge (first century) was obviously not chosen at random. Romans chose the lowest and deepest part of Guadalquivir River because it was easier to construct for roman engineers. The bridge, 230 meters long, ends at the Triumphal Arch (twentieth century) which was one of the main gateways to the Roman city. At the other end of the Bridge, there is a tower built in Moorish times (Calahorra Tower) to control ship traffic on the river. During the Arab period, the bridge was severely damaged and, after some years, it ceased to be used as it was too dangerous to cross it. Later, the Christians decided to rebuild the Roman Bridge since it was the most important access to the city and the only existing bridge in Cordoba. A statue of Archangel Rafael, city Patron, was placed on the bridge in the seventeenth century after a great epidemic wreaked havoc in the

city. During the twentieth century, the bridge underwent several reconstructions. Despite this, cars and buses continued to use the bridge further weakening its structure. In addition, it was practically impossible to walk it. In 2008 the last reconstruction works were carried out and fortunately, traffic was suppressed. After this reconstruction, the bridge regained its original appearance. Cordoba and its bridges: for nearly two thousand years the Roman Bridge was the only bridge in the city to cross Guadalquivir River. In the twentieth century the Local Government approved the construction of a new bridge: San Rafael Bridge, the second bridge in Cordoba.

Fortunately, today the city have five more bridges: Puente de Andalucía, Puente de Miraflores, Puente de la Autovía del Sur, Puente de Abbas Ibn Firnás, Puente del Arenal.

C

CORDOBA

Roman Cordoba

Lucio Anneo Séneca (Cordoba, 4 a. C. - Rome, 65)

Roman Bridge

Albolafia

Take a look around the Roman Bridge! From the water emerges a real nature reserve inhabited by birds (ducks

and herons), endemic plants and even a small community of otters. It is really surprising and difficult to believe: a

unique enclave, sculpted by Nature´s hand, in the middle of the old town.

Do not miss the arrival of the herons in the evening: early in the morning herons go out of town to find food and

return late in the afternoon. Hundreds and hundreds of herons land softly on the river and trees, creating a

wonderful spectacle. On the right bank of the river you can see a waterwheel from Arab times. This mechanism provided water to the

Royal Family who lived in the old Muslim Alcazar. When the Catholic Kings lived in Cordoba ordered to

remove the waterwheel because the noise disturbed the Queen when she tried to sleep. Later in the sixteenth

century it was renovated and restored.

Address: Puente Romano s/n

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

“Albolafia”

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Bridge Gate / Triumphal Arch

Brigde Gate is, erroneously, called Triumphal Arch although it has never been used for this purpose. Since the Roman times, this access was the most important entry point into the city through the city walls: everyday thousands of people, carriages with groceries and armies passed through this gate. An impressive wall, that protected the Roman city of Cordoba against possible attacks, was attached to the gate, creating a powerful defense system. Unfortunately, today almost nothing remains of the Roman Gate and even the wall disappeared. Over the years, the Christians decided to destroy the old gate and build a beautiful new one to replace it. The works were designed by Hernan Ruiz, one of the best architects in Spain, although the Gate remained unfinished for many years due to lack of funds. At the top of the Gate there is a plaque commemorating the visit of King Felipe II (1571) to Cordoba. This King took one of the most important decisions in the history of Spain: moved the Court from the Imperial Toledo to Madrid, a small and dusty medieval village. Finally in the twentieth century, the Local Government decided to finish the construction of the Memorial Gate and completed the work of Hernan Ruiz.

Temple of Claudius Marcellus Street

This incredible Temple is located between Claudio Marcelo and Capitulares Streets, pretty close to Tendillas Square, the most popular square of the city. Under the rule of Claudius Augustus (Octavian Augustus, second half of the first century) Cordoba reached great splendor and wealth, becoming one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire. At the same time, Cordoba was named Colonia Patricia and the urban

development boomed in the city. In this context, the Temple of Claudius Marcellus was designed and built, creating great expectation in the region. The Temple was built to worship the Emperor: best artists of the time took part in its construction, turning the building into one of the most beautiful of the Roman Empire. Practically, the whole construction was made of marble which gives us an idea of the enormous

weight that had to endure the foundations of the Temple.

Lamentably, only certain specific parts remains from the original building: the steps, the altar, the shafts of the columns, the foundations and some capitals. The Roman Circus, one of the favorite distractions of the Roman people, was located very near. Experts believe that it was built in the area now occupied by the Church of St. Paul (1241). Unfortunately, still no archaeological remains have been found to confirm this theory. In the Circus were held chariot races and even naval battles shows, during which the Circus was filled with water.

Herculean Maximian Palace

This amazing Palace was built by Maximian Herculeo in the year 296 and was located outside the city walls (about 600 meters away). During these years, numerous uprisings and revolts against the Empire took place in southern Spain and North Africa. In order to tackle this difficult situation, the Roman Authorities formulated a plan: the Roman Empire established the “tetrarchy” (decentralization of power from Rome to peripheral areas such as Cordoba or Split). For this reason, Maximian decided to take up residence here until the end of the campaign. The dimensions of this Palace were great and no expense was spared in its construction, becoming one of the most impressive palaces of

CORDOBA

Bridge Gate

Roman Temple

Funeral Mausoleums

On Victoria Avenue we can find a great example of Roman Mausoleum.

Near this central avenue was located one of the main Roman city gates. From this part of town, a major Roman road

communicated Cordoba with Seville, promoting trade and the transport of goods.

At the same time, the most important burial areas of the city were located along this road. Fortunately, some of these

sepulchers have been preserved in relatively good condition and, thanks to the works of reconstruction and documentation, have

been restored. More precisely, these mausoleums we can contemplate in the middle of Victory Gardens date from the time

of Emperor Tiberius (first century BC). Historians suggest that these funeral mausoleums belonged to

important public figures as they were buried near one of the major access to the city. In particular, experts believe that it could be an "Ordo Equest" family mausoleum, a title granted to families

that belonged to the ancient Roman Aristocracy. Usually we can distinguish two parts in a Roman mausoleum: "ustrinum" where the cremation of the corpse was performed and an area where the remains of the deceased were deposed.

This burial area, however, did not last too long: in the late second century a neighborhood emerged around here and mausoleums

were surrounded by houses and buildings. As a consequence, the Roman road that led to Seville was closed to avoid passing

through this new neighborhood and Local authorities found new burial areas far away from here.

Historical Note: Emperor Augustus was buried in Rome in a similar mausoleum. From this moment on, wealthy Roman people began to use sepulchers of this kind, becoming very popular throughout the Empire. Maybe you're interested in

knowing that Spain was a very important country for the Roman Empire to the point that two Spaniards, Trajan and Hadrian,

became roman Emperors.

Address: Calle Claudio Marcelo 29

Price: -

Opening Hours: Closed to tourists

Address: Ronda de Isasa s/n

Price: 1€

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (10:00-15:00) / Saturday,

Sunday and Bank Holidays (11:00-15:00)

Funeral Mausoleums

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the Empire: high quality marble and rich mosaics were used in its construction. The complex was 400 meters long and 200 meters wide and was articulated around semicircular underground galleries. Around these galleries were located different buildings which had many public functions: for example, they were used as Reception Room where the Emperor performed official acts, Spa, Hearing Room to receive important Government officials... Besides these buildings, several rooms were used as private residence of Emperor Maximian. During the Visigoth period, the Palace was renovated and used as Basilica. Later, in Muslim times, the building was destroyed and a neighborhood emerged re-using building materials from the Palace. Unfortunately, the current situation of the Palace is deplorable. The works carried out in 1991 to build the New Train Station destroyed much of the remains of the Palace. Despite the great efforts of historians and archaeologists, nowadays only one third of the Palace is preserved.

Roman Amphitheater

In the first century a truly astounding Amphitheater was built in Cordoba, only 7 meters smaller than the Great Colosseum in Rome. These proportions help us to understand how important Cordoba was in the Roman Empire. In the Amphitheater Romans enjoyed gladiatorial combats, animal fights and fights between gladiators and animals. Gradually, these bloody combats became one of the favorite entertainments of the Roman society, similar to football today. The Amphitheater of Cordoba was discovered in the 1990s, near the Faculty of Veterinary and archaeologists were greatly surprised by its enormous size. The building had 3 floors, 15 to 20 meters high and could seat 30,000 people. The strategic placement of corridors and gates facilitated the evacuation of the Amphitheater in just a few minutes, much faster than in some modern football stadiums. In the fourth century, Constantine banned gladiatorial combats and the building was abandoned, later deteriorated and finally in ruins. When the Muslims discovered the remains, they used the materials to build a neighborhood. This was relatively common at that time. Currently, the Amphitheater is under reconstruction and in the near future tourists will be able to visit it.

Roman Theatre

Theatres were very common in the Empire, almost each town had one. Generally, the ancient Greek tragedy and the Roman comedies were the favorite genres among Romans and the theaters were filled practically every day. Roman Theaters were semi-circular in plan and consisted of three parts: on one side were located the stands for spectators (cavea). At the opposite end was the stage (scaena) and between both of them the Orchestra for musicians and the choir. If weather demanded, awnings were placed to protect the public from the rain or the scorching sun. Cordoba had one of the largest Theatres of the Empire. It was only 6

meters smaller than the Marcellus Theater in Rome and had a capacity for 15,000 people. The Roman Theater (5 B.C.) was discovered on the foundations of the current Archaeological Museum of Cordoba but unfortunately, it was only possible to dig up and restore about 30%. The rest was used as construction materials during the Visigothic and Arab periods just like others great monuments of the Roman era. Fortunately, the stands for the public have been preserved and visitors can admire them in a special room of the Archaeological Museum.

t the end of the seventh century, the Iberian Peninsula was ruled by the Visigoths. But the situation in Spain was really complicated: aristocrats groups struggled for power,

epidemics spread rapidly and the demographic crisis was evident. Muslims, settled in North Africa, took advantage of the occasion and devised a plan to conquer Spain and later Europe. In 711, an army, led by Tariq, disembarked in Gibraltar (now a territory of the United Kingdom) and from there began an expansion throughout the country. This military campaign was supported by Jews and some opponents of the Visigothic Kings. Gradually, Visigothic cities were conquered (Seville, Merida, Cordoba, Malaga, Linares…) and at the end of 711, the capital of Spain, Toledo, fell into Muslim hands. In the years following, the Muslim government consolidated its situation in Spain and named Seville as the first capital of Al-Andalus. Andalusia's fate changed dramatically when in 756 Abderraman I came to Spain and proclaimed the Emirate of Cordoba.

Mosque-Cathedral

The Mosque of Cordoba is, without doubt, one of the most amazing monuments in Europe and highly appreciated by the entire Muslim world. Shortly after the Muslim conquest (711), the territories of southern Spain were populated with North Africans. Over the years, the situation was much more stable and in 756 Abderramán I came to Cordoba to found the Emirate of Cordoba, independent of the Caliphate of Damascus. In this context, the construction of the Mosque of Cordoba began in the year 756. Although they had to resolve some administrative problems before: previously, the building was occupied by an ancient Visigoth Basilica, the most important religious building in Cordoba. Abderramán I expropriated the land where the Basilica was and destroyed it in order to build his long-awaited Mosque.

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Address: Avda. Vía Augusta, s/n

Price: Free Entrance

Opening Hours: (10:00-14:00) Mondays & Tuesday Closed

Address: Avenida Medina Azahara, 1 (Faculty of Veterinary)

Price: -

Opening Hours: Closed to tourists

Address: Plaza de Jerónimo Páez, 2 (Archaeological

Museum)

Price: General 1.5€ / EU Citizens Free Admission

Opening Hours: Tuesday (14:30-20:30) Wednesday-

Saturday (09:00-20:30) Sunday (09:00-14:30) Monday

Closed

Islamic Cordoba

Mosque of Cordoba

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Construction Stages The construction of the Mosque can be divided into different phases:

1. Abderramán I The first phase of construction consisted of eleven naves oriented lengthwise to Guadalquivir River. The width of these naves is identical, except the central nave that leads to the Mihrab (sacred wall), and the two lateral naves. Central nave is slightly larger than the rest and lateral naves are a little bit narrower, but these slight differences are noticeable only from a plane. Construction materials were taken from other buildings of past times (mainly Romans’ and Visigoths’). In brief, this phase can be summarized:

• Eleven naves designed with the same width except for central and lateral naves

• An original system of arcs that revolutionized the world of architecture. Above the columns were built pillars in order to develop a system of horseshoe and half a point arches, creating a wonderful visual effect.

• The decor was done by alternating red (brick) and white (stone) segments. This system was already used by the Romans in the Aqueduct of the Miracles in Merida (Spain).

The result is an immense forest of columns, imitating a palm grove. Naves were closed by the qibla wall, where the Mihrab is located: this wall is the sacred space where Muslims pray and is usually oriented toward Mecca. In 788 the wonderful project of Abderraman I was finally finished.

2. Abderramán II By this time (833-855), Cordoba was already one of the most important cities in the world. The population grew exponentially and city boundaries were extended. Faced with this challenge, the authorities decided to extend the naves to meet the religious needs of the growing city. The length of the naves was extended to the South. To achieve this, Abderraman II had to destroy the qibla wall and build a new one. For the first time ever, new building materials were used exclusively for the Mosque. The decoration remains the same: alternating red (brick) and white (stone).The last amendment made by Abderraman II was to enclose the Orange Tree Courtyard with saqqifas (small roofs).

3. Abderramán III Abderrahman III undertook a series of important reforms in the Orange Tree Courtyard (951-952): old Minaret was destroyed and a new one 42-meter high was built. This Minaret became a propaganda symbol of the new Caliphate of Cordoba and was taken as a model in many Arab cities.

4. Alhaken II During the tenth century, Cordoba enjoyed the most glorious moment in its history: great amount of mosques, libraries and palaces were built in the city and population kept growing steadily. The major reforms carried out by Alhaken II were undoubtedly the most beautiful and sumptuous in the history of Cordoba (962-965). Alhaken II extended again the length of the naves, demolished the qibla wall and built a new one which still stands today. To improve lighting, four skylights with beautiful domes were designed. For the first time ever, the new foliated and cross arches were introduced. The columns alternate pink and blue trunks. During these years, the floor of the Mosque consisted of compacted clay and was covered with precious Eastern carpets. Finally, the current Mihrab of the Mosque, built by Alhaken II, is considered a symbol of luxury and magnificence of the Caliphate of Cordoba.

5. Al-Mansur Cordoba was growing steadily and the authorities felt compelled to expand the Great Mosque of Cordoba once again (988-1002). Fortunately, this enlargement, made in 988, was the last experienced by the Mosque. Eight new naves were built, nearly doubling the capacity of the Mosque (22,000 m2). Sadly, this expansion made the Mihrab loose its central position.

CORDOBA

Mosque Inside

Mihrab of Alhaken II

The Mihrab is a small niche located in the sacred wall (Qibla), where Muslims pray. Therefore, it is the most important part of a Mosque. Mihrabs can have different sizes and, given its important function, usually are richly decorated. In Cordoba, the Mihrab and

Qibla wall are erroneously facing south and not toward Mecca. The motive of this “mistake” is in question, ranging from inexperience and error in the calculation to pure political

overtones, hinting to the declaration of political independence of the Emirate of Cordoba. Another theory considers that the

architects wanted to imitate the Mosque Umayyad of Damascus, which is also facing south.

The Mihrab in Cordoba is octagonal and is adorned with marble baseboards and profuse decorative motifs, which reproduce

symbols and allegories of life according to the Sassanid tradition. On the ceiling there is a scallop of plaster decorated by a

magnificent mosaic donated by the Emperor of Constantinople, Nicephorus Phocas to Alhaken II. This amazing mosaic was made

with glass powder of gold and blue hues and combines decorative motifs with verses from the Koran. Something similar can only be

seen in the temple of St. Sophia in Istanbul.

Mosque

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Mihrab of Alhaken II

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 11

Sabat In large Muslim cities it was common, for security reasons, to construct an overpass which connected directly the residence of the Caliph with the Mosque. According to Arab chroniclers, some Caliphs or important government Emirs had been killed on their way to the Mosque. Through this overpass they could cross the street safely and with discretion. Unfortunately, this overpass was destroyed and experts discuss about its original location. According to the most solid theories, Sabat was located on Torrijos Street, near the monument to San Rafael.

Lavatories In the Muslim religion the cleansing ritual or ablution is mandatory before prayer. There were different kinds of purification rituals depending on the type of sin: "ghusl" or major ablution for sex sins and "wudu" for minor sins and bodily needs (urine, feces, touching a woman without an intermediary material…). Mosques, thus, needed a place where these ablutions could be made: the lavatories, in Arabic "mida'a". The Lavatories of the Mosque of Cordoba were destroyed and their remains were forgotten after the Christian conquest. Although thanks to the abundant Arabic literature, we know that in the Mosque of Cordoba there were four lavatories, two for men and two for women. In 1998 archaeological remains of one of these lavatories were found inside the Hotel Conquistador, just in front of the Mosque. The lavatory, almost totally preserved, had an entrance area and two courtyards for ablutions. Plus, a complex network of hydraulic pipes was found: this modern system carried water from the river to the lavatories.

Orange Tree Courtyard Orange Tree Courtyard, (“Patio de los Naranjos” in Spanish) was built to play a clearly religious role. Here the faithful Muslims could perform ablution before praying and go into the Oratory, clean from all sin. The Courtyard, 130 meters long and 50 meters large, had to be broadened several times over the centuries to accommodate the growing number of Muslims who came to the Mosque every day. Slowly, Orange Tree Courtyard became a meeting point for Muslim society in Cordoba. When the Christians conquered the city, the use of the Courtyard changed completely. Initially it was used as a little square alongside the Cathedral, as a garden, as a place of recreation and even as a cemetery. We are aware of the presence of orange trees in the courtyard since 1512, although we do not know how many trees there were and how

they were distributed. The Christian Tower, a former minaret, was built in 1360. However, over the years, there have been many changes that affected its original appearance: in 1664, a statue of the Archangel San Rafael was placed in the

highest part of the tower. From here, San Rafael controls the entire city and protects all “cordobeses”. Finally, you cannot miss the wooden beams on the walls of the Courtyard: these beams were part of the original ceiling of the Mosque but unfortunately were stolen decades ago. The Andalusian Government found the beams in London and they bought them after a millionaire auction.

The Mosque and the construction of the Cathedral

On June 29th

, 1236 King Fernando III and his troops conquered Cordoba and entered into the city. The procession headed to the Mosque, where they placed the Christian cross and a flag of Castile and Leon on the minaret. The news of the conquest of Cordoba shocked the entire European continent, creating great expectation in the Christian states. During the first Christian centuries, reforms in the Mosque were limited to the construction of small chapels (Old Major Chapel and Royal Chapel, where King Fernando IV and Alfonso XI were buried) which did not affect the Arab monument too much.

CORDOBA

Supposed Sabat Gate

Orange Tree Courtyard

Orange Tree Courtyard

Abderraman III

(Cordoba 891-961). Abderraman III was the son of Abd Allah Ibn al-Mundir and

Muzayna (slave of Basque origin). He was 21 years old when his grandfather appointed him

Governor of Al-Andalus. At that time, the Empire of Al-Andalus was fragmented and there were many conflicts between local

lords. Abderrahman III unified the different territories and put an end to the era of internal conflicts and violence: an important

step to secure the future of Cordoba and Andalusia. At the same time, Abderraman III extended his military campaigns to North Spain as well as to Africa. In the North his troops fought against the Christians who were defeated and ended up paying taxes to Al-Andalus. Once secured the borders in the north, Abderraman III extended his empire to Africa conquering the African cities of

Tangiers, Ceuta and Melilla. In 929, Abderraman III proclaimed the Caliphate of Cordoba and

broke the last link with the Caliphate of Baghdad. Abderraman III had a quick intelligence and benevolent

personality. At the same time, he was keen and courteous. Despite all this, Abderraman III was famous for his cruelty. Some stories describe this feature of his character: “he was able to see

with his own eyes the death of his son Abd Allah, who was executed in the throne room in the presence of all the dignitaries of the court”. Others stories tell us how he used lions to punish

those sentenced to death. Such cruelty was not only in battles or corporal punishments, his brutality to women in the harem was notorious too. One day, in the gardens of Madinat al-Zahra (palatial city, 8 kilometers from Cordoba) Abderraman III was drunk and accompanied by one of his favorite wives. Suddenly, he tried to kiss her and bite her but

she was elusive and did a bad gesture. The Caliph ordered to burn her face, leaving a melted, grotesque clowny-looking face.

Abderraman III

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 12

Over the years, the political situation in Cordoba was much more stable and clashes between Christians and Arabs slowly disappeared. This situation made it possible to design major reforms. The biggest change that the Mosque experienced was carried out in the sixteenth century: Emperor Carlos V authorized the construction of a great Christian Cathedral inside the Mosque (1523) at the initiative of Bishop Alonso Manrique. Hernan Ruiz I was appointed chief architect but shortly after, he died and his son, Hernan Ruiz II, continued the work which lasted until the seventeenth century. The Christian Cathedral resulting is a harmonious blend of different styles: Gothic, Renaissance, Mannerist and Baroque. After this major reform (sixteenth century), the old Mosque hardly underwent any change. Only minor additions and decorative liturgical accessories were attached. While visiting the Cathedral, pay special attention to the marble pulpits and the wonderful altarpiece. The choir stalls of the Cathedral (eighteenth century) were made with wood from the Americas and have a great artistic value: Biblical scenes and the Virgin Mary are depicted here. The two impressive organs were manufactured in Italy and brought from there to Cordoba. Finally, you cannot miss the Treasury of the Cathedral which is located in the Chapel of Santa Teresa: there we can admire the "custody", which measures over 2.5 meters and weighs 200 kilos. It symbolizes the construction of the Gothic Cathedral. Moreover, Cardinal Salazar and Gongora, famous Spanish writer, were buried here. Sagrario Chapel: At the corner between the south wall and the east wall was built this beautiful chapel (1586) which is divided into three small naves and decorated with beautiful frescoes (Cesare Arbasia) that give to the chapel the nickname of “The Sistine Chapel of Andalusia." In addition to the great beauty of this monument, the Mosque of Cordoba hides interesting exhibits, such as the Museum of San Vicente and San Clemente Museum: Here visitors can find shafts and capitals of the ancient Visigothic Basilica that was located here before the construction of the sacred Mosque, sarcophagi, the mechanism of the Cathedral Clock Tower (1747), marks of the stonemason who worked in the construction of the mosque, Caliphate gravestones or even a well curb.

Main Facades and Access to the Mosque

Postigo de la Leche Postigo de la Leche is situated in the western facade of the building and has direct access to the Orange Tree Courtyard. Its original appearance is completely unknown, as it was rebuilt by Hernan Ruiz I (1505-1510). Its design consists of two parts: the first part has a small opening and a lintel, forming a sort of ogee arch. The access is decorated with a rosette in the center.

On the top, the scheme is similar but there is a cornice, decorated with zoomorphic and anthropomorphic figures. In the Middle Ages women who could not raise their children came here and leave them at Postigo de la Leche waiting for someone with financial resources who could feed them. There is a legend that says that a herd of pigs passing through the Postigo de la Leche killed several children who were playing in the area.

Puerta de los Deanes (Deanes Gate) There is another entrance in the western part of the Mosque called Puerta de los Deanes and gives access to the Orange Tree Courtyard. This gate has been rebuilt several times but fortunately the Muslim model was preserved: access bay door and lintel surrounded by a horseshoe arch and all topped by a small roof. On the inside of the gate we can find the original design without substantial changes: horseshoe arch and voussoirs alternating red and white. This gate is called Deanes, because during the ceremony of investiture, the future Dean entered through this gate. Dean was, in the Catholic Church, the person who had the power when the Bishop was out of town. At these times, it was very common for political reasons that the Bishop was traveling all around Spain. Therefore, the Dean was a very important person in the city.

Puerta San Esteban (Saint Stephen Gate) There is one more entry in the western part of the Mosque and provides access directly to the Oratory. This gate was built during the 8

th

Century though in the 9th

Century underwent major reconstruction. Architects followed the Muslim model: bay door and lintel surrounded by a horseshoe arch and a small roof on top. The whole construction was decorated with verses from the Koran carved during the 9th century.

Puerta del Espiritu Santo (Holy Spirit Gate) This gate is located in the western façade of the Mosque and it was built by Alhaken II. Holy Spirit Gate has direct access to the Oratory. This Gate was covered until the 20

th century

when reconstruction works took place. These reconstruction works were carried out following the Muslim model. Special mention should be made of the blind horseshoe arches interlocked and decorated with geometric shapes surrounded by poly-lobed arches.

CORDOBA

Christian part of the Mosque

Postigo de la Leche

Deanes Gate

Saint Stephen Gate

Holy Spirit Gate

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 13

Postigo de Palacio (Palace Gate) This gate dates from the Caliphate of Alhaken II . Unfortunately, it was restored later in Christian times, destroying part of the original model. This access leads to the Oratory from the western part of the temple. The most fascinating aspect of this gate is the merger of Islamic decoration (horseshoe arches, etc.) and Christian elements (gable, molding) which confers great dynamism.

Puerta de San Ildefonso (Saint Ildephonsus Gate) This access was built by

Alhaken II. If you look closely, you will see that this Gate is

virtually identical to the Holy Spirit Gate which is also in the

western part of the Mosque. Poly-lobed arches and

geometric shapes confer dynamism and movement to

the construction. Puerta de Santa Catalina (St. Catherine Gate) This gate is located in the eastern part of the Orange Tree Courtyard and was built on the

orders of Al-Mansur. Later, the Gate was reformed in Christian times. The architect of this reform was Cristiano Hernan Ruiz II. Without a doubt, the most interesting parts are the spandrel of the arches which are decorated with reliefs extracted from the ancient Muslim minaret built during Abderramán II times. Doors are made of wood with silver paneling. This access has a special significance since the Middle Ages, especially during Holy Week processions (where Spaniards celebrate Christ’s resurrection). Nowadays, the tradition of Holy Week (“Semana Santa”) is still alive in Cordoba: thousands of “Cordobeses” and tourists flock the streets looking for their favorite procession. Puerta del Perdon (Gate of Forgiveness) This gate was built in 1377 under the reign of Enrique II whose shield can still be seen above the entrance arch. This access has two doors, one outside and the other facing the Orange Tree Courtyard. The doors are nearly 10 meters high and two meters wide and were made of pine wood covered by bronze sheets. The original façade was designed during the 14

th Century but

unfortunately is not preserved as it underwent several modifications. The current façade is the result of the reform carried out by Sebastián Vidal in the mid-seventeenth Century.

Puerta de las Palmas (Las Palmas Gate) This entrance was designed by Abderramán III to strengthen the north facade of the Oratory which was in danger of collapse. During the 14

th century, this

Gate experienced some improvement works. Later, it was adorned with Christian decor elements like the statues of “The Virgin and the Angel” (Hernán Ruiz I). Here were blessed the flags of the Christian armies before conquering Granada (1492). During the 18

th century,

improvement works were needed again (Tomas Jerónimo de Pedrajas). Legends about the Mosque

The Mosque of Cordoba hides fantastic and romantic legends, some of which are known by all “cordobeses”. Here are some of the most popular:

Apparition of the Angel Aberraman I had a terrible nightmare in which he was drowned in a sea of blood while he recalled bloody episodes of his life. Suddenly, an angel appeared and rescued him. The angel said: "such will be the work I consecrate you, the one true God, that the whole world will envy it and it will tame the winds and endure the endless days!”. After this prophecy Abderraman I ordered the construction of the Mosque. Fountain of Santa Maria In the middle of the Orange Tree Courtyard there is a beautiful fountain with several spouts. According to the tradition, single women who wanted to marry had to drink from a spout, specifically the nearest to the olive tree. This action would help them find a husband.

Tunnel between the Mosque and Madinat al-Zahra It is said that during the time of Abderrahman III there was a hidden tunnel connecting the Mosque of Cordoba and Madinat al-Zahra. Researchers had been looking for this tunnel with keen interest but no result till date. This tunnel would have nearly 13 km of distance and would allow the Caliph pass through town without being seen and without fear of any possible attack. We must take into consideration that the safety of the Caliph was a matter of state therefore, it wouldn´t be strange the construction of an infrastructure of such magnitude.

CORDOBA

Palace Gate

Saint Ildephonsus Gate

St. Catherine Gate

Las Palmas Gate

Did you know…?

When King Carlos V visited the works of the Cathedral in the sixteenth century,

he was deeply repentant and said: "I did not know that the Mosque of Cordoba was so beautiful. We have destroyed something unique to build something

that could be built elsewhere".

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 14

Bells of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela On July 3 997, there was a battle between the Christian armies and the Muslim troops which ended in victory for Al-Andalus. According to the legend, Al-Mansur took as loot the bells of the Cathedral of Santiago and placed them in the Mosque of Cordoba, specifically in one of the naves now crowned with Ghotic vaults.

Pay special Attention: If you want to visit the Great Mosque on Sunday morning you will have to wear shirt with sleeves or something to cover your shoulders as the Christian mass is held in the Cathedral. In addition, you can visit only the Christian part of the Mosque. The rest remains closed to tourists. If you want to visit the whole monument it’s better to wait until the afternoon.

Caliphate Bath (Hammam)

Ablution or body cleansing was an essential part of Muslim life. One can even say that it was a social ritual. During this rite, men chatted and discussed political, economic and religion issues. These baths, the most important in the city, were part of the Muslim Alcazar (Official Residence of the Caliph) which unfortunately was destroyed at the end of the Caliphate. This type of baths had a very particular design: cold water room, warm water room and hot water room. All of them articulated through a complicated system of pipes and boilers. At present, medical experts have confirmed that these temperature changes improved blood circulation. If you are interested in knowing more about the history of the Caliphate, within the Baths you can watch an interesting documentary about the glorious history of the Muslim Cordoba.

Madinat al-Zahra Palace

Madinat al-Zahra was a palatine city located 8 kilometers from Cordoba. The whole complex was built by Abderrahman III, the Caliph that changed forever the history of Cordoba thanks to his political decisions: In 929 Abderrahman III abolished the Emirate and named Cordoba capital of the Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba, representing a complete challenge to the Abbasid Caliphate (Baghdad). During the 10

th century, the city reached its highest development: the

trade flourished, the population multiplied and philosophers, poets and musicians came to the city from all around the world. Diplomatic relations were focused on dialogue with the Christians and some battles against them too, if the situation so demanded. In North Africa, the Fatimid Kingdom (enemy of the Caliphate of Cordoba) controlled several important trade routes to Cordoba, which created a remarkable tension between the two kingdoms. In this challenging context, Abderrahman III felt that he must create a city that represented the glory of his Caliphate, Madinat al-Zahra. This city, the most important of the West, would be used as propaganda symbol to his people and his enemies in North Africa (Fatimid Kingdom).

At the same time, his project would become the most amazing Palace in the world, even bigger than the Grand Palace Abbaside in Baghdad. The first stone of Madinat al-Zahra was laid in 936 and was finished about 975. The abundant Arabic literature describes in detail the richness of this amazing city where the Caliph lived and ceremonies, receptions of Christian ambassadors or even military parades were held. Legend says that Abderraman III named this city in honor of his wife, "Zahra" which in Arabic means "flower." Using the slope of the land, architects designed a city structured on three levels:

A) The Caliph's Palace, located in the highest part of the city.

B) Residences of the Viziers, Government Buildings, the Rich Lounge of Abderraman III, gardens... These two levels were protected by a solid wall.

C) The real city: houses of artisans, workshops, city Mosque, soldier barracks, baths, zoco (market)...

The Archeological Site

North Gate The North Gate controlled the entry and exit of food supplies and building materials to and from Madinat al-Azhara. On one side of the Gate there was a watchtower designed for the soldiers. At the same time, a downward path connected, via 4-gates, with the next level of the city. The Military House Here guests waited for the Caliph to be received. We can also see some important military offices. On the south side of the building there is a large square that originally had no gardens, which were designed in the twentieth century. On the western side of the square were built the stables. The Eastern part houses the remains of some small residences. The Great Portico It was the entrance to the real heart of the city, where the offices, administrative buildings and luxury rooms were located. In addition, military parades, ambassador receptions and solemn ceremonies were held regularly here. A small street ramp connected the Military House with the Grand Portico. The Caliph's guests walked down this small street to reach this awesome Portico whose mission was to impress the guests of the Caliph.

CORDOBA

Address: Calle Cardenal Herrero 1 Prices: General 8€/Reduced 4€/Children Free Opening Hours: Nov-Feb (10:00-18:00) Mar-Oct (10:00-19:00) Sundays closed from 10:15 to 14:00

Address: Plaza Campo Santo de los Mártires s/n

Prices: General 2€/Reduced 1€ /Children Free/ Fridays Free

Opening Hours: Nov-Feb (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-19:00) Mar-

Oct (08:30-14:30) Sundays (09:30-14:30) Mondays Closed

Downward Path

The Military House

The Great Portico

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 15

The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III It is, without doubt, the most important part of Madinat al-Zahra. It can be defined as a magical place that perfectly represents the luxury of this palace. The Rich Lounge was used by Abderraman III to hold his private festivals, ceremonies, ambassador receptions, and banquets, always surrounded by beautiful dancers, slaves and multitude of officers. The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III can be divided into three naves: in the central nave was situated the throne of the Caliph. In the side naves the officers and viziers sat and talked together. The greatest feature of this lounge is the beautiful decoration, an example of the splendor of Al-Andalus in the tenth century. The Caliph wanted to amaze his guests and he spared no expenses in decorating this wonderful lounge: marble columns and amazing arches were built and wood ceilings with stars were designed by the best decorators of the Caliphate. On the eastern side of the building were built several rooms, which were directly connected with the Rich Lounge of Abderraman III and paved with white marble extracted in the province of Cordoba. In these rooms the Caliph spent part of his private life when he was not in his official residence situated at the top of the palatine city. To the south of the Rich Lounge visitors can contemplate a large garden divided into 4 sections: in the geometric center of the garden there was a small pavilion called "Central Pavilion" which was surrounded by four pools. Aljama Mosque On the eastern part of

Madinat al-Zahra, outside the walls, we can see the Mosque of the palatine city. Like every other Mosque, this building had a Courtyard where Muslims could make ablutions and an Oratory where the faithful prayed. This mosque was well

oriented toward Mecca unlike the Mosque of Cordoba. From the Rich Lounge of Abderraman III, the Caliph could go straight to the mosque through an overpass built by security reasons (Sabat). Opposite the Mosque, we find several houses belonging to the people who worked in the Mosque. Yafar House The residences of the Senior Officials and Caliph´s collaborators were located in this part of the city. Yafar House is a perfect example of a seigniorial house from the 10

th

century. Its large size indicates that Yafar was an important figure in the political life of Madinat al-Zahra and an official very close to the Caliph. The residence was composed of three well defined areas: a private area to the East, an area for service personnel to the North and a public basilica-shaped building. Pool House Just few meters away from Yafar House visitors can find a small building. Historians still can’t say with certainty to who this house belonged but according to some experts, it could be Al Hakam’s house in times when he was the crown prince. In the central part of the house there is a garden with a small pool. There was also a bathroom which was shared with the Yafar House. Worker Houses There is a group of houses which belonged to soldiers and people who worked in domestic service. If we look closely at the archeological remains, we can confirm that this part of the city was used to cook food for Senior Officials (see bread oven).

The Royal House The Official Residence of the Caliph was located in the highest part of the city: from here he could see the whole Madinat al-Zahra complex and the almond groves planted around the city. Unfortunately, this part of the city is being rebuilt and is closed to the public.

Pottery in Madinat al-Zahra

Finally we highly recommend a visit to the Museum of Madinat al-Zahra (page 37) where visitors can enjoy an incredible collection of pottery pieces found in Madinat al-Zahra. We must not forget that Muslims were true masters in the production of ceramic and developed a powerful industry in Al-Andalus.

Madinat al-Zahra Doe This small piece, valued as one of the masterpieces of Hispano-Muslim Art, was placed in a fountain of the palatine city. Expert Historians consider that this piece was not alone but was part of a set of figures like the Lions Courtyard in Granada. Three pieces of this set have been found so far: one is exhibited in the Visitor Museum of Madinat al-Zahra, another is in the Archaeological Museum in Madrid and the third one was bought by an Arab sheik (4 million US dollars) and is exhibited in the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar.

CORDOBA

The Rich Lounge Building

Cordoba in the tenth C

After the death of Abderraman III, Cordoba had almost half a million

inhabitants, a huge city for those times, topped only by Baghdad. In addition, the city had about 300 public baths and 700

mosques, which is really difficult to imagine today.

The University of Cordoba was, at that time, considered as the true center of

the universal wisdom: many philosophers, theologian, physicians

came to Cordoba to learn from the great Masters, contributing to enrich the

cultural life of Cordoba.

Madinat al-Zahra

Aljama Mosque Remains

Yafar House

Bread Oven

Cordoba in the tenth Century

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 16

Zoomorphic Figure According to some experts, this figure may be a giraffe because of its proportions, especially for its long neck. Archaeologists believe that this figure was used as a pitcher to hold some kind of liquid and pour it into glasses. The piece was stolen from Madinat al-Zahra and, after traveling throughout Europe, was put up for sale in a famous Auction House in United Kingdom where the Andalusian Government purchased it for 220,000€.

Calahorra Tower

Guadalquivir River was a strategic point and allowed quick and easy access to the city so Muslims, shortly after conquering Cordoba, realized that it was essential to protect this part of the city if they wanted to develop Cordoba. Originally, Muslims built two defensive and interconnected towers but in 1369, during Christian times, the King Enrique II of Trastamara built a third tower. This defensive system was really powerful and included deep moat, solid walls, catapults and numerous arrow loops through which the

soldiers could fire in case of invasion. The interior consists of 14 rooms divided into 3 floors. Over the centuries, the Tower of Calahorra served many different purposes: from jail to school. Today the building has become the Al-Andalus Living Museum which offers a wonderful journey into the past. The different exhibitions on continuous display show the coexistence in Cordoba of the three major religions: Muslims, Jews and Christians.

Almodovar Gate

During the Muslim domination Cordoba was surrounded by large walls which had seven access gates. Almodovar Gate was one of them. This Gate provided access to the old town, protected the city from attacks and allowed the authorities to develop effective control measures over trade. The current Almodovar Gate (the original Muslim gate was destroyed by effects of time) was built in the 14

th

century, during Christian times. If we enter the Old town through this Gate, we will find the popular Judios Street which leads to the wonderful Synagogue (built in 1315). In 1950 a statue of Seneca, Roman philosopher born in Cordoba, was placed near the gate. Walking down Cairuan Street we can enjoy a nice stroll along the original city wall built in Muslim times. Not far from here you can visit another medieval city gate called Puerta de Sevilla.

Andalusí House

Wonderful house built in a Hispanic-Muslim style and located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter (Juderia), pretty near the Synagogue. When we cross the door, we are back in the 12

th century: admire the

beautiful courtyards, the collection of Arabic coins or the replica of the first paper machine which came to Europe from Asia. We recommend a visit!

Martos Mill

The Arabs were true experts in hydraulic engineering: wells, bridges, mills, irrigation system etc. All these technological advances greatly helped develop agriculture and generated wealth in Andalusia. One of these wonderful works of engineering was the Martos Mill. Wheat came to town from other provinces and was transported to this mill where a complex hydraulic system generated a force

Did you know…?

The great Giralda Tower (Seville), one of the icons of Andalusia and Spain, was built, in part, using stones which came

from the palatine city Madinat al-Zahra.

Madinat al-Zahra

How to get Madinat al-Zahra

There is a daily bus service from downtown (Bus stop: Paseo de la Victoria, Glorieta Cruz Roja) to Madinat al-Zahra.

From September 15th

to April 30th

Departures from Cordoba: 09:30, 10:15 / Saturday: 9:30, 10:15

and 15:00. Return from Madinat al-Zahra: 13:00 and 13:45 / Saturday 13:00,

13:45 and 18:30 From 2

nd May to September 15

th

Departures from Cordoba: 10:15 and 17:00 / Sunday 09:30 and 10:15

Return from Madinat al-Zahra: 13:45 and 20:30 / Sunday 13:00 and 13:45

Prices: 7€ Children 5 to 12: 3.5€

Address: Puente Romano s/n (Al-Andalus Museum)

Prices: General 4,5€/ Reduced 3€ / Multivision Slideshow

1,2€ (estimated duration: 2 hours)

Opening Hours: From 1st

Oct to 30th

Apr (10:00-18:00) / From

1st

May to 30th

Sept (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:30)

Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free admission (shuttle

bus from the bus stop to the archaeological site 2,15€)

Opening Hours: From 16th

September to 30th

April (10:00 –

18:30) / From 1st

May to 15th

September (10:00-20:30)

Sunday and Bank Holidays (10:00-14:00)

Calahorra Tower

CORDOBA

Almodovar Gate

Address: Calle Puerta de Almodóvar

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

Address: Calle Judios 12 Prices: 2.5€ Opening Hours: 10:00-19:30

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 17

capable of moving five large stones which ground grain into flour. When the city was conquered by Christian armies, the mill continued to fulfill its function, so important to “cordobeses”. Today the building has become the Hydraulic Museum where visitors can learn how these kinds of mills worked and the different uses they have.

Muslim Suburbs

Arrabal was the name by which Muslim neighborhoods were known. Cordoba had up to 21 Arrabales, exceeding the limits of the current city. These neighborhoods were a maze of narrow streets and old squares and had their own mosques, souks, cemeteries and even a wastewater network which was really unthinkable in other parts of Europe where people lived in conditions far worse. If you want to visit an original old Arab neighborhood, you can see the remains of Saqunda crossing the Roman Bridge, in the Miraflores Park. This neighborhood was the most populous in Cordoba and housed

the Grand Souk of the city, where thousands of people came to buy fabrics, spices, groceries... In 818 there was a serious uprising in Saqunda because of economic and social reasons. Subsequently, other neighbors joined, leading to a global uprising difficult to quell. Al Hakam didn’t know how to tackle this difficult situation and viciously crushed the revolt. Immediately thereafter, he sent the inhabitants of Saqunda outside Cordoba (they had to migrate to other cities such as Toledo, Fez or Alexandria). Finally the entire neighborhood was razed and the Caliph prohibited the construction of other neighborhoods in the area.

Arab Houses Arab houses tried to follow an introverted style: simple on the outside and luxurious on the inside. Houses usually were built with an inner courtyard around which there were several rooms with different uses. When people gathered to eat the families placed rugs and cushions which were put away when they had finished.

Souks The Souk, Market or Bazaar was one of the most important parts of an Islamic city; each neighborhood had its own souk or bazaar where people could buy spices, textiles, meat, olive oil, etc. Every souk had its own security, called "muhtasib", who was in charge of guarding the souk and observed whether the standards in the souk were met. The Grand Souk of Cordoba was located in Saqunda neighborhood but after the rebellion of 818, the Souk was moved inside the walls (“Medina” in Arabic). In 936 a great fire destroyed the Souk and the nearby streets, causing numerous deaths. Finally in the 11

th century the Souk was relocated in the East part of

the city which was a safer and had better access. According to Arabic literature, Cordoba had more than 80,000 stalls throughout the city (including all Souks) which allows us to imagine the grandeur of the Capital of the Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba.

CORDOBA

Address: Paseo de la Ribera s/n Prices: General 2€/ Reduced 1.30€ Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 Guided Tours from 09:45

The Mysterious Arquillos Street

Very close from de la Feria Street and Miraflores Bridge is located one of the most mysterious spots in Cordoba: Arquillos Street, popularly known as Calle Cabezas (Head Street). The street in question is scene of a mysterious legend about Gonzalo Gustioz, Lord of Salas (Burgos). During the Middle Ages, Spain was engaged in a bloody war between the Muslim Empire (Al-Andalus) and the Christian kingdoms (North Spain). The children of Gonzalo Gustioz were expert medieval soldiers, well-trained to kill Muslims. Turning to the legend in hand, during the wedding ceremony between Ruy Velazquez (bother-in-law of Gonzalo Gustioz) and Mrs Lambra, the two families clashed violently and a cousin of the bride was killed by Gonzalo Gonzalez (one of the sons of the Lord of Salas). The couple, full of hatred and thirsty for revenge, decided cruelly to take revenge. Ruy Velazquez sent Gonzalo Gustioz to Cordoba with a strange letter written in Arabic, a language Lord of Salas did not speak. When Gonzalo Gustioz gave the letter to Al Mansur, leader of Al-Andalus, he was surprised. The letter said: “Kill the carrier”. Fortunately, Al Mansur was benevolent and decided to imprison him in a house located on the current Arquillos Street. Ruy Velazquez, not satisfied with this, hatched a plan with several Muslim Lords to kill the seven children of Gonzalo Gustioz. Shortly after, the heads of the seven infants and their mentor appeared right in front of the house where Gonzalo Gustioz was imprisoned. Each morning the Lord of Salas could see from his window the heads of his beloved children. While he was incarcerated, Gustioz Gonzalo had sexual intercourse with Al Mansur´s sister and together gave birth to a child who later would avenge the death of his half-brothers.

Address: Miraflores Park Prices: - Opening Hours: Closed to tourists

Averroes (Cordoba, 1126 - Marrakech, 1198)

Al-Andalus and Medicine

The most developed science in Al-Andalus was certainly medicine. The government monitored the activity of

physicians, veterinarians, opticians and drug makers. Medicine reached a point in its development where even medication

guides were written. These guides defined a doctor as: "comprehensive, friendly, good, able to endure insults and

adverse criticism. Someone who keeps his hair and fingernails short, wears clean white clothes and behaves with dignity ". The Arabs built the first hospitals and psychiatric hospitals

open 24 hours, where the hygienic conditions were excellent, much better than some current third world hospitals.

An example of the enormous development of medicine in Al-Andalus is the fact that Al Gafiqi invented the eyeglasses in the

12th

Century. You can see a bust of Al Gafiqi in front of the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters.

Old Town

Al-Andalus and Medicine

The Mystery of Arquillos Street

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 18

Siege and Conquest of Cordoba

In February 1235, the Christian troops arrived in the vicinity of Cordoba. King Fernando III decided to settle in the south of the city to prevent reinforcements from other Muslim cities. For over 4 months, the Christian forces surrounded and besieged Cordoba, creating a very difficult situation for its citizens. Finally, on the 30

th of June the

city of Cordoba, without supplies and without forces, surrendered to the power of the Christian army. The conquest of Cordoba by the Christian army became a news event with a global impact. People in all European Kingdoms talked about this heroic deed: Cordoba one of the world's major cities had been conquered by the Christians, something that certainly would change the history of southern Europe. Cordoba was the first major Andalusian city conquered by the Christian troops so the celebration was tremendous: a military

parade crossed the Roman Bridge. After that, the troops entered through the Bridge Gate and went to the Mosque. Once there, they walked three times around the perimeter of the Mosque and blessed it with holy water. Then, they went to the Gate of Forgiveness where the Archbishop opened the Gate and entered with the sacred cross. Next day the King arrived in Cordoba and the celebration continued few days more. Once conquered the city, Christians, Jews and Muslims

lived together more or less peacefully. Later (1492), Christians Kings issued a decree to expel Jews and

Muslims: if the Christian troops discovered Muslim or Jewish families, they were expelled immediately from the country. Large areas of Andalusia were repopulated with Christians from the center and north Spain.

Fortress of the Christian Kings (Alcazar)

Previously, this area was occupied by the Customs House and the Roman Governor's Mansion. Later, Muslims built the old Alcazar which unfortunately was abandoned, looted and destroyed. The current military building was constructed using remains of the old Alcazar by order of the King Alfonso XI of Castile in 1328. Catholic Kings (Fernando II of Aragon and Isabel I of Castile) were ones of the most illustrious guests in the history of the Alcazar: they lived here for 8 years overseeing the conquest of Granada from the Muslims. Thanks to the stay of the Kings in Cordoba, the city became an important center of power. Shortly after, Columbus negotiated in this building with The Catholic Kings the funds required for his expedition that later would lead to the discovery of America (you can see a statue of The Catholic Kings and Columbus in one of the gardens of the Alcazar). After the conquest of Granada, The Catholic Kings left Cordoba and the building was handed over to the Catholic Church, until 1812. Since then the Alcazar was used as civil prison until 1931. Finally, in 1955, the City Council of Cordoba took definitive possession of the building and nowadays the Alcazar hosts civil weddings and guitar concerts, becoming one of the most visited monuments in the city.

The Building The building has a rectangular shape and is surrounded by a powerful wall. At the same time, there is a tower on each corner to protect the fortress against possible attacks. Unfortunately, only two of them remain: Torre del Homenaje (Tower of Homage) and Torre de los Leones (Tower of Lions). The current entrance to the Royal Fortress is located in the Tower of Lions, the best preserved of all the towers. When you enter through this gate, you must turn left to begin the visit.

Mosaic Room This room, used as a chapel during Inquisition and later as a prison chapel, is decorated with wonderful roman mosaics found in Corredera Square. Near the entrance we can see a roman mosaic of Oceanus, son of Uranus and Gaia. The largest mosaic is located in the left part of the room and is composed of geometric shapes and figures, dolphins and anchors. In the left entrance there is an interesting mosaic of a mime during a performance. On the right side of the room, we can see an incomplete mosaic representing the four seasons, a theme tremendously popular in the Roman world. After visiting the Mosaic Room we must climb the stairs which

CORDOBA

Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph

Alhaken II is universally considered as the most educated and devoted Caliph during Al-Andalus times: it is said among

historians and experts and indeed reason, that he gave his life for his people. From his childhood, the best philosophers and teachers of Cordoba contributed to the education of Alhaken II. Some old Arab writings reveal his passion for literature and

science. When he came to power, Alhaken II usually sent officials to Damascus or Cairo in search of books that he

couldn’t find in Cordoba (his personal library counted 400,000 volumes).

During his mandate, the Caliph founded 25 public schools in Cordoba to facilitate education of children from disadvantaged families. At the same time, he funded medication for the poor

and the sick which was truly amazing at that time.

Christian Cordoba

Christian part of the Mosque

Christian part of the Mosque

Did you know…? Christopher Columbus lived an

intense romance in Cordoba. The illustrious explorer and colonizer lived in the city for several years

trying to convince the Catholic Kings to raise funds for his expedition to

America: meetings between Columbus and the Kings in the Alcazar were frequent but The

Catholic Kings did not have much faith in this expedition and refused

to fund it. Columbus ended up living in deplorable conditions and began to work selling books for sailors to

survive. During these years Columbus met

Beatriz Enriquez de Arana, a humble weaver. Both fell in love and had a child, Hernando or Fernando Colon.

When Christopher Columbus returned from America (1493), he granted a pension to Beatriz and

they both went their separate ways. However, the fate draws them back together when Columbus died: the Spanish explorer left a vast fortune

to his exbeloved.

Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 19

lead us to the top of the Tower of Lions. From there visitors can cross the small corridor to reach the Tower of Homage, unfortunately not open to the public. From up here we can enjoy a unique view of old town Cordoba: admire the Mosque, the narrow and winding streets of the Jewry, the beautiful gardens of the Alcazar and the Guadalquivir River. After these romantic views, we must return to the main entrance of the fortress to continue our visit. Then, go down the stairs to visit the Royal Baths.

Royal Baths The Royal Baths were rebuilt by Alfonso XI for his wife, who spent long periods in Cordoba. These Royal Baths were designed in such a way that each room had a different use: rest room, dressing room, hot water room, boilers, etc. The water came from the Tower of Homage where was built a cistern that collected rainwater and supplied water to the different rooms of the Baths through a complex system of pipes.

Moorish Courtyard The same staircase leads us now to the “Patio Morisco” (Moorish Courtyard). Alfonso XI built this beautiful Courtyard basing on the model of a Moorish garden. To complete the design of the garden the Caliph needed the assistance of Muslim artists that brought trees and plants

from Middle East countries. The garden was divided into four parts by a corridor that crossed the garden from east to west and from north to south. In the middle of the Courtyard was placed a beautiful fountain. In the eastern part of the Moorish Courtyard

there is a building constructed in the 20th

century which was designed to expand the number of cells for prisoners, remember that the Alcazar was used as a jail during many years. In the western part there is a gate that leads to the wonderful gardens of the Alcazar.

Alcazar Gardens In Arab times there were already few beautiful gardens designed for the Harem of the Caliph but in tenth century Abderraman III decided to move his official Residence to Medina al- Zahra, which was a place much more luxurious than the old Alcazar. This decision led to the abandonment and destruction of the gardens. A century later, the Christian Kings built the new Alcazar and the gardens regained its glory and beauty. The current gardens were arranged in three levels: there are ditches, canals,

fountains, small ponds with fishes, fruit trees and beautiful gardens on both sides.

CORDOBA

Panoramic Views from Tower of Homage

Alcazar Walls

Alcazar Gardens

Address: Calle Caballerizas Reales s/n

Prices: General 4.5€ / Reduced 2.25€ / Free Admission:

Tuesday to Friday (08:30-10:30).

Opening Hours: From 16th

Sept to 15th

Jun (08:30-19:30)

Saturday (09:30-16:30) Sunday (09:30-14:30).Monday

closed.

From 16th

Jun to 15th

Sept (08:30-14:30) Sunday (09:30-

14:30). Monday closed

After lengthy negotiations, The Catholic Kings, especially Queen

Isabel I, agreed to finance the expedition of Christopher Columbus (1492) who wanted to find a new route to Asia, which would

encourage trade and increase goods transportation between the two continents.

In early 1492 Columbus was in Huelva organizing all the preparations for the expedition, leaving no stone unturned. Despite the extensive maritime knowledge of Columbus, we

cannot forget the invaluable help of important figures such as Alonso Pinzon or Pero Vazquez de la Frontera, who participated in

the design of the expedition. Finally, on August 3 three huge galleons (Santa Maria, La Pinta and La Niña) left the port of Palos de la Frontera (Huelva) with

more than 90 men on board. The expedition made a stopover in the Canary Islands where one of the galleons underwent repairs. Shortly after, the galleons set sail again and entered definitively into the Atlantic Ocean. After several months sailing, on October 12, 1492 Rodrigo de Triana, a

sailor born in Seville, shouted "Land ho!”. Columbus and his expedition had arrived in America. The first island they sighted was Gunahani (Bahamas). Later, the expedition went to Cuba,

Dominican Republic and finally Haiti. On December 25, shortly before returning to Spain, one of the

galleons ran aground (Santa Maria) and became useless. Finally on January 16, 1493, the two remaining galleons returned

to Europe laden with gold, slaves, endemic plants... During the return trip, the expedition suffered a severe storm and almost wrecked. As a result of this terrible storm, the galleons lost their way, separated and followed different routes. Months later,

Columbus arrived at the Port of Lisbon (La Niña) and Martin Alonso Pinzon (La Pinta) arrived in Bayonne. Unfortunately, Martin

Alonso Pinzon died shortly after returning to the Old Continent. On April 29, 1493 Columbus published a letter in Barcelona

announcing the discovery of the new continent. In 1500 Juan de la Cosa designed in Puerto de Santamaria (Cadiz) the first map of the Americas. This map is preserved in the Naval

Museum of Madrid. In 1530 Hernando Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, wrote

an extensive biography of his father.

The Christian Kings and Columbus (Alcazar Gardens)

Discovery of America

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 20

Royal Stables (Caballerizas Reales)

King Felipe II was a great lover of horses and nature. One of his obsessions was to get the perfect horse breed: with this in mind, he created the Royal Stables in Cordoba (1570). For years and years veterinaries and experts were crossing different breeds to create a horse of Arab descent with great quality and beauty. This horse was called "Andalusian horse”. Currently, the city of Cordoba is trying to restore the culture of the horse in this building. To this end, beautiful Equestrian events are held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Perhaps the most relevant part of the complex is the main stable and its beautiful vault. Along the walls of the building, Cordoba Police has an authorized area to keep the horses, feed them, and ride them.

San Rafael Archangel Monument

San Rafael Archangel is one of the most beloved religious figures in Cordoba. The city is full of references to the Saint: next to the Triumphal Arch, a statue located in the Roman Bridge, San Rafael Bridge, the Football Stadium (called Archangel). The devotion to San Rafael began in the sixteenth century, when the city was hit by a horrible epidemic. According to testimonies, San Rafael appeared to a clergyman and told him he would save the city. Shortly after that, the epidemic disappeared mysteriously. The most famous statue of San Rafael in Cordoba is located near the Bridge Gate, within a fenced enclosure. This beautiful monument was constructed between 1765 and 1781 and funded by the Catholic Church. During its construction were set free more than 8,000 prisoners to finish the monument. Currently “cordobeses” celebrate San Rafael’s day on October 24

th :

families gather and go on a picnic in countryside.

Chapel of San Bartolome

This beautiful spot, unknown to many “Cordobeses”, well worth a visit. Nowadays, the chapel of San Bartolome is integrated in the current Faculty of Philosophy and Literature, old Hospital. At the end of the fourteenth century, the district was Christianized, and a small parish, dedicated to San Bartolome, was built (1399-1410). To visit the chapel, visitors should go through a small whitewashed courtyard with a huge palm tree, one of the oldest in Cordoba. In this courtyard there are two doors: one of them provides access to the Chapel of San Bartolome and the other one leads to a room closed to tourists. According to experts, this room once served as a sacristy. The exterior of the chapel is sober, without much decoration, which contrasts with the interior of the chapel where decoration is truly amazing (vaults, plaster, tile, beautiful baseboards etc.). The small chapel has a rectangular shape, dominated by the presbytery. The interior decoration is rich and varied:

Palace of the Marquis of Carpio

King Fernando III was fully aware of the need to protect the city walls and the Guadalquivir River, the main access point for the city. As part of its plan to defend the city, the King designed this fortification which, shortly after its construction, was donated to the family Mendez de Sotomayor. Gradually, the fortification was becoming a beautiful palace with romantic gardens and patios worthy of a King. During the first half of the twentieth century the palace underwent several renovations and reforms which led to the discovery of remains of an ancient Roman house in the basement of the building. Despite being closed to tourists, we can take a look through the gates.

Square of the Colt (Plaza Del Potro)

Small historic square located near Guadalquivir River. This place is really very popular in Cordoba and much frequented by locals and tourist groups. In the middle of the square there is a small fountain with a colt that gives the square its name. The square in question was built in 1577 when the neighborhood enjoyed a frenetic commercial activity: craft workshops, food stores, taverns, inns for visitors and dealers ... “Posada del Potro” (Inn of the Colt) is located in the eastern part of the square. This popular inn was mentioned in “Don Quixote” (Miguel de Cervantes), one of the mythic works of Spanish literature. According to chronicles of the

Royal Stables

Address: Calle Caballerizas Reales 1

Prices: Free admission

Opening Hours: 10:30-13:30 & 17:00-21:00 / Sundays 10:00-

12:00 / Tuesday Closed

Address: Calle San Fernando

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

CORDOBA

Square of the Colt

San Rafel Archangel Monument

Address: Next to the Bridge Gate

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

CORDOBA

Address: Faculty of Philosophy and Literature

Prices: Free admission

Opening Hours: From 15th

Sept to 14th

Jun (10:30-13:30 & 15:30-

18:30) / From 15th

Jun to 14th

Sept (10:30-13:30 & 17:30-20:30) /

Sunday afternoon & Monday morning closed

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 21

time, “Posada del Potro” was in fact a brothel: this activity was authorized by the Government back then. During the nineteenth century, commercial activity of the neighborhood was progressively decreasing and many businesses shut down. In this context, “Posada del Potro” was abandoned and later acquired by the Local Government. Today the building houses the Flamenco Museum which is a reference point for all lovers of Flamenco. In the western part of the square visitors can enjoy the Museum of Fine Arts and Julio Romero de Torres Museum, where are exhibited works of the famous painter Julio Romero de Torres, born in Cordoba in 1874.

Corredera Square

Corredera Square, located in the heart of the city, is probably one of the most famous icons of Cordoba. The Square was designed as the typical squares of central Spain: if you visit Madrid, Salamanca or Burgos you will find places very similar to this square that reveal the origin of the architect. During many years, this grandiose Baroque square, unique in Andalusia, was a fundamental part of public life in the city: Bullfights, religious events as well as parades or executions took place here. Even there were a hat factory and a food market where people from all over the city came to buy groceries. Currently, it is a perfect place to have a drink in one of the bars, have a nice stroll or take a look at the many shops. The square was built in 1683 by architect Antonio Ramos Valdes, born in Salamanca. Since then, the square has undergone numerous changes and improvement works that have helped beautify this typical spot. For much of the twentieth century, this area of Cordoba

was not very recommended: prostitutes, drunkards, swindlers, pusher and pimps frequented the square and surrounding streets. Fortunately, thanks to the improvement works carried out by the City Council, this square has become an icon of

Cordoba and Andalusia and one of the most visited places in the city. In 1959, beautiful Roman mosaics were discovered during routine works to improve the square. Nowadays, these Mosaics are exhibited at the Fortress of the Christian Kings (page 18). Once a year, the City Hall organizes a Medieval Market with actors dressed up as artisans and soldiers, ecological food stalls, handicrafts...

Compañia Square

Probably this small square doesn´t appears in many travel guides or tourist circuits but its romantic essence and humble appearance well worth a visit. The square, located just 100 meters from Tendillas Square, is dominated by four main buildings: West: El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos Church and Santa Catalina School. South: Santa Victoria Church. East: Old Church of Santo Domingo.

El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos Church This beautiful church was built in the fifteenth century and boasts a

Inn of the Colt

CORDOBA

Address: Plaza Del Potro

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

Corredera Square

Address: Plaza de la Corredera

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

The Orive Palace is a beautiful Renaissance building designed in 1560 by Hernan Ruiz II. Unfortunately, since its inauguration a

mysterious legend haunts the palace for centuries: according to the stories, this palace, Official Residence of Charles of Ucel and his daughter, hided a wonderful treasure. A cold night few Jews knocked on the door of the palace asking for shelter. Charles of Ucel, benevolent and pious man, hosted them and gave them

food. But these “guests” knew very well that this palace hided lot of money and gold.

During the night, the Jews lit candles in the room where he pretended to sleep and began to pray in Hebrew. At that same

moment the earth opened up and the Jews descended. The daughter of Charles of Ucel, who was hidden, watched as the

“guests” returned with a large amount of gold. The next day the Jews left the palace and said goodbye to Charles

of Ucel. Shortly after, his daughter decided have a try: she lit candles, began to pray quietly and suddenly the earth opened up

shaking the room. The young girl and her maid descended but dramatically earth swallowed them. Fortunately the maid escaped

at the last second and told the father what had happened. The father started digging around to find his beloved daughter, but it

was useless, the earth had swallowed the girl for all eternity. Several centuries have passed since then but, according to the

neighbors, they still today hear the screams of a terrified young woman at night and candles are consumed strangely fast.

True or not, despite being abandoned, the house transmits a feeling hard to explain with words. Curiously, the current owners

have tried numerous times to sell the building and no one dares to buy it. Actually the palace is used to hold various cultural events.

Address: Plaza de Orive, 2

Prices: Free Admission Opening Hours: Tuesday- Friday (08:30-14:30)

Corredera Square

The Legend of the Orive Palace

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 22

beautiful Baroque altarpiece designed by Teodosio Sanchez. Santa Catalina School (Real Escuelas Pias) Santa Catalina School (1604) was founded and promoted by Juan Fernandez de Cordoba (local religious authority) for the Jesuit Order. The Marquise Catalina Fernandez de Cordoba contributed large amounts of money to carry out the project. The current building we see today was built in 1701 as unfortunately, the old building had to be demolished by the poor state of preservation. Inside the School we can see a wonderful baroque staircase.

Santa Victoria Church This church was built in the eighteenth century in a neoclassical style. Especial mention should be made of the magnificent dome and the exceptional staircase made of black and red marble. Take a look! Old Church of Santo Domingo (Provincial Historical Archive) Currently this building houses the Provincial Historical Archive but formerly the Church of Santo Domingo was located here. This old church was built shortly after that Fernando III conquered the city (1236), so it is one of the oldest churches in Cordoba. Don´t miss the Chapel of the Conception and the bell tower, really beautiful. Finally the square is dominated by a statue of the Archangel San Rafael which was placed the on top of four marble columns.

Christ of the Lanterns (Cristo de los Faroles)

In Capuchinos Square we can visit a place of devotion and pilmigrage for all “cordobeses”. The best moment to visit Capuchinos Square is, undoubtedly, during Holy Week when many people come here to pray, place candles and sing songs in order to worship Christ and prove his devotion. Christ of the Lanterns was built in 1794 by Juan Navarro Leon.

On the contrary, the surrounding gates were added in the twentieth century.

Capuchinos Monastery & San Jacinto Hospital - De los Dolores Church

During the seventeenth and eighteenth century were built two humble buildings which beautify this romantic and melancholic square (Capuchinos Square), located in the city center. Capuchinos Monastery In 1633 this religious building was built over an ancient neighborhood. The monks of the Capuchin Order (founded by St. Francis of Assisi) lived here and cultivated vegetables and fruits that later they used as food. In addition, monks received alms from citizens that help to maintain the building. In the mid-nineteenth century the building was expropriated by the Government and large parts of the monastery were demolished. Fortunately, the church of the monastery has been preserved.

San Jacinto Hospital – De los Dolores Church In the year 1710 the old Hospital of San Jacinto was built (take a look to the right of the Christ of the Lanterns).This building hides a tragic story: terminally ill patients were moved here where they waited for death in the gloomy rooms. Shortly after (1728), De los Dolores Church was built and integrated within the Hospital complex. As we can see the two buildings had different entrances.

Santa Marina Church

When Fernando III defeated the Muslims and conquered the city (1235), he decided to build a number of churches which are called “Fernandinas Churches”. Santa Marina was one of them. This beautiful church (thirteenth century) is considered the oldest church in the city and one of the oldest in Andalusia. This wonderful religious building is located in Santa Marina district,

Old Church of Santo Domingo

Santa Victoria Church

Christ of the Lanterns

Address: Plaza de la Compañia

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

Address: Plaza de Capuchinos

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

Capuchinos Monastery

San Jacinto Hospital - De los Dolores Church

Address: Plaza de Capuchinos

Prices: -

Opening Hours: -

CORDOBA

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 23

popularly known as the “Toreros” (bullfighters) district: a lot of bullfighters were born in Cordoba and chose this old church to marry. In fact, in front of the church, there is a small square (Conde Priego Square) with a beautiful sculpture in memory of Manolete (1917-1947), one of the most famous and beloved bullfighters in the history of Cordoba. Manolete had a tragic death while he was fighting a huge bull (over 500 kilos) in Linares (Jaen) becoming a national hero. The church reflects a magnificent fusion of styles: Gothic, Moorish and even Roman. Finally it’s worth mentioning that the Santa Marina Church had to undergo major renovations after the earthquakes of 1680 and 1755 and the terrible fire of 1880.

San Agustin Church

Located in San Agustin Square, this church is one of the most beautiful in the city. San Agustin Church was built in 1328 under the reign of Fernando III. Its initial appearance was later modified by different architects, especially after the reform carried out in the seventeenth century. The building was severely damaged during the

French invasion of Spain (1803-1808). When visitors enter the church, first thing they see are the mural paintings and plasterworks of the ceiling, a unique and amazing work that cannot be missed if you come to Cordoba. Equally stunning are the chapels and altars. The bell tower was built in the sixteenth century.

San Lorenzo Church

The Church of San Lorenzo was built during the thirteenth century and belongs to the group of churches called Fernandinas which were built shortly after the Christian conquest. In 1272 the King funded the construction of this beautiful church for the district of San Lorenzo, one of the oldest in Cordoba. San Lorenzo Church was built in place previously occupied by a

Mosque, which was something very common at that time. The only remains of the Mosque can be found under the current bell tower. From the viewpoint of Spanish Architecture, we can say that the church follows an Andalusian style: three naves without transept and semi-circular apse. The bell tower was built by Hernan Ruiz and it is considered to be a antecedent of the upper part of Giralda Tower in Seville, one of the most emblematic monuments in Andalusia. The unmistakable element that makes the Church of San Lorenzo a unique one is, doubtlessly, the great Gothic-Mudejar rose window that we can see on the facade. Finally you cannot miss the great collection of Gothic-Italian style paintings dating from the fourteenth century in the apse.

Viana Palace

Viana Palace is a fourteenth century manor house, built for a wealthy family (Villaseca), which is located in the heart of Santa Marina district. Over the centuries, the huge palace changed its owners many times, specifically eighteen, until today. Currently, the beautiful building is owned and maintained by Caja Sur Bank: presentations of books, music albums, guided tours and press conferences take places here regularly.

CORDOBA

Santa Marina Church

Did you know…? In Christian Times the dead

people were buried near churches, causing the

accumulation of bodies at specific moments and extending quickly contagious diseases and

epidemics through the neighborhood. Gradually the

urbanization was changing and the cemeteries were moved to

the outskirts of the city.

Address: Plaza de Santa Marina, 1

Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 2€ Audio guide Included

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday (12:00-14:00 & 16:00-18:00)

Saturday (09:30-11:30 & 15:30-17:30) Thursday & Sunday Closed

San Lorenzo Church

Address: Plaza de San Agustín

Prices: -

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (10:00-14:00 & 17:00-20:00)

Sunday (10:00-14:00) Monday Closed to tourists

Address: Plaza de San Lorenzo, s/n. Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 2€ Audio guide included Opening Hours: Monday-Friday (10:00-12:00 & 16:00-18:00) Saturday (09:30-11:30 & 15:30-17:30) Thursday & Sunday Closed

On the 1st of November 1755 at 10:16 a horrible earthquake (9 degrees on Richter scale) devastated Lisbon. The epicenter was located only 300 km from the Portuguese capital. Forty minutes after the earthquake, a tsunami with waves between 6 and 20

meters high struck the final blow to the beautiful Portuguese city. The effect of the earthquake could be felt as far away as Scotland,

Norway, USA, Canada or Mexico, causing material damage. Those parts of the city not affected by the tsunami caught fire.

According to the official estimates, more than 100,000 people died (5,000 of them in Spain) and many corpses were thrown into the

sea to avoid spreading epidemics. Firefighters were trying for 5 days to put out the horrible fire,

thirty-four looters were executed and healthy men were forced by the army to help with the reconstruction. One year later, Lisbon

was clean of debris and reconstruction works quickly started. This devastating earthquake significantly affected Spain. More

than 5,000 people died in Spain and Cordoba suffered hard consequences: numerous historical buildings such as the Mosque,

Madinat al-Zahra or “Fernandinas Churches” were seriously damaged and the structures had to be reinforced.

In Seville died 5 people and the 89% of the buildings were damaged and needed improvement works.

In other Andalusian coastal cities such as Huelva or Cadiz incalculable damage occurred due to the tsunami.

Earthquake 1755

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 24

The most important reform was carried out in the eighteenth century and led the Palace to its current condition. The whole Palace has more than 6500 m2, divided into rooms, gardens and courtyards. Among its main attractions are the beautiful courtyards, a total of twelve (connected by galleries), with great diversity of plants from all around the world. At the same time, the Palace has a huge library with over 7000 volumes and an amazing collection of Flemish tapestries and silver of high artistic value made in Cordoba.

Special mention should be made of the following places:

a) Gallery of Tiles: Impressive collection of tiles with wooden frames. The variety of tiles is amazing, ranging from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century.

b) Black Bedroom: Its name comes from the black furniture that decorates the room. In this part of the Palace we can admire hardwood furniture from the eighteenth and nineteenth century. Perhaps the most remarkable thing about this room is the lavishly decorated bed and the small armchair designed in an Elizabethan style.

c) Gallery of Leather: In this room visitors can enjoy an exhibition of different types of leather. The city of Cordoba is famous for its leather works from the eighth century. Arab craftsmen of Cordoba were the first in Europe to introduce and support the development of these craftworks products. Today, artistic leather creations made in Cordoba are admired and exhibited all around the world.

d) Mosaic Room: In this room there is a beautiful roman Mosaic (fourth century) which was found in a small town in the province of Cordoba and purchased by the Villaseca Family. Also in this room we can see a beautiful painting on leather representing Cleopatra at the funeral of Marc Antony (anonymous work).

e) Marquis Bedroom: This room remains intact, just like the Marquis of Viana (Admiral of the Spanish Armada) left it after his death.

f) Coffered Ceiling Room It is one of the most interesting rooms around the Palace. Pay attention to the Mudejar-style roof (merger of Muslim and Christian styles) which imitates the hull of a ship upside down. The room is decorated with old paintings, Flemish tapestries and

antique furniture, creating a unique atmosphere. One of the most appreciated pieces of art in the Palace is the painting "A Lady", by Juan Pantoja de la Cruz, popular Spanish painter in the sixteenth century.

The Hermitages

For many years the mountains surrounding Cordoba (Sierra Morena) were occupied by hermit monks who lived a contemplative life in touch with nature. Often times, they went down to the city and collected some coins thanks to the generosity of the citizens. In 1703 the first Hermitage was built. Up until that moment, the monks lived, in extreme precariousness, in the numerous caves that dot Sierra Morena. Over the years, were built more Hermitages (13 buildings) to accommodate the large number of monks. The privileged situation of the Hermitages allows visitors to enjoy the best panoramic views of Cordoba. In 1929 was placed

Viana Palace

Viana Palace

Malmuerta Tower is located just a few meters from Colon Park, one of the most attractive urban parks in the city.

This tower was built in the fifteenth century to control the entry to the Christian city and repel all possible attacks. The arch and the tower were attached to the city wall by the Christian architects,

creating a fortification very difficult to conquer. Over the years, the Tower lost its defensive functions and began

to be used as a prison for nobles and later as a planetarium thanks to the height of the building.

The Malmuerta Tower is full of mysterious legends which try to explain its construction.

The most popular legend says: “A Marquis married a beautiful woman who liked to help sick and poor people of the city.

Regularly she offered them clothes, food and spent much time helping them. Her husband thought that such work was not

suitable for a Marquise. Furthermore, he began wonder why his wife spent so much time away from home. Suspicions, never

confirmed, grew and the Marquis began to think that his wife had a lover. Fueled by jealousy and rage, the husband decided to kill

her and end the suffering. Finally, the Marquis found out the truth: no lover was involved, his wife just wanted to help those in need. The husband felt pangs of conscience and confessed the crime to the King who commanded

him to build this tower.”

Address: Avenida de las Ollerías Price: - Opening Hours: -

Address: Plaza de Don Gomez, 2 Prices: Guided Tour 8€ / Only Courtyards 5€ Opening Hours: From 1

st July to 31

st August (09:00-15:00) / From

1st

Sept to 30 Jun (10:00-19:00) Saturday & Sunday (10:00-15:00) Monday Closed

CORDOBA

Old Town

Malmuerta Tower

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 25

an imposing sculpture of the Sacred Heart of Jesus which protects all “cordobeses” from the highest part of the city. On a clear day you can even see the snowy mountains of Sierra Nevada (Granada), located more than 200 kilometers away. The Hermitages were occupied until 1957, when the last hermit died.

xperts consider that the first Jews arrived in Cordoba from the East in the tenth century B.C. From this moment onwards they peacefully coexisted with the indigenous population during

centuries. Hundreds of years later, the arrival of the Romans to Cordoba did not change much the situation of stability of the Jewish people. Slowly the Jewish population grew and began to occupy entire neighborhoods of the city. In the year 70 something happened that changed forever the fate of the Jews. The Roman Emperor Titus destroyed Jerusalem and its population had to flee to other cities such as Cordoba, increasing the Jewish population in great numbers. Despite this hard situation, we can say that the Romans respected the Jews: they could practice their religion freely, cooperated with the Romans and were not obliged to observe those Roman laws which conflict with the rules of Judaism. This period of stability ended with the invasion of the Visigoths who began a crackdown against the Jewish people: Judaism was banned. Shortly after, Visigoths even ordered the expulsion of the Jews from Spain. The only way for them to stay in the country was to convert to Christianity (seventh century). In the eighth century the Jews, strongly mistreated by Visigoths, supported the Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. From this moment, began the period of greatest glory for the Jewish people in Cordoba. During Al-Andalus period, Muslims deeply respected the Jews: they could find jobs of great responsibility, controlled the finances of the richest people, worked as Government Officials, and even traded in the souk of the city. Jews mostly lived in the Judería (Jewish Quarter), excluded from the rest of the population. This quarter consisted of tiny, narrow and winding streets and white one- floor houses. During Christian times, Jews remained as a rich and powerful community. For that reason, the Christian Kings tried to protect them from the rest of the population. But this protection and other royal favors generated envy and bred hatred. Shortly after, the attacks and

the persecution of Jews at the hands of Christian citizens became increasingly common. Finally, The Catholic Kings had to issue a Decree of Expulsion (1492). From this moment on, millions of Jews left Spain, some were converted to Christianity and others lived in hiding.

Synagogue

The synagogue is the Jewish holy building where they gather to pray. The word synagogue comes from the Greek verb synagô which means "to gather, collect". The architectural model for synagogues also comes from ancient Greece, although were added some modifications such as basilica shaped buildings with columns and a gallery for women to pray. Usually, synagogues were built on the highest part of the city and near rivers or lakes which symbolized wealth, fertility and abundance. The Synagogue of Cordoba, the only one in Andalusia, is located in the heart of Jewish Quarter (address: Calle Judios) and was built in 1315 under Christian domination. This wonderful synagogue is one of the most important in Spain together with the Synagogue of Toledo, near Madrid. They both are unique in the world for their style and elegance. The design of the building follows a Mudejar style as can be seen in the decoration, plastered walls and poly-lobed arches. In front of the Oratory Gate there is a small courtyard with an ablution pond. The Oratory can be divided into four parts:

• South Wall: The small stairway leads to the Gallery of Women where three large windows allowed them to participate in the ceremony.

• East Wall: A beautiful arch hides a small space (2.8 meters deep) designated for keeping the sacred scrolls and the Torah. This wall must always be oriented toward Jerusalem.

• North Wall: This wall is the best preserved. You can still see small decorative inscriptions from the fourteenth century.

• Western Wall: There is a small niche where the pulpit was located. From here the rabbi led the prayer.

After the expulsion of the Jews in 1492 the synagogue was abandoned and converted into a Hospital. Later, the building was adapted to be used as Christian Chapel.

Jewry (Judería)

The Jewish quarter can be defined as a huge labyrinth of one-story white houses where it is extremely easy to get lost. The Jewish quarter spreads out around the Mosque, concretely through the following streets: Judíos, Averroes, Al-Mansur, Romero, Dean and squares: Maimonides, Tiberiades and Juda Levi. The Jews began to occupy this area of Cordoba (World Heritage Site

E

How to get: Unfortunately the Hermitages can be reached only by car (CO-3314) although there are plans to launch a shuttle bus from the city center.

Price: General 1,50€ / Reduced 0,70€ Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-13:30 & 17:30-19:00 / July and August (10:00-13:30 & 16:30-19:00) / Monday Close to tourists Phone: 957266607

Jewish Cordoba

Jewish Quarter

CORDOBA

Synagogue

Address: Calle Judios, 20 Prices: General 0,30€ / EU Citizens Free Admission Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 & 15:30-17:30 Monday Closed

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 26

by UNESCO since 1994) during the Christian occupation. Slowly, they bought houses, renovated them, set up their business and began to accumulate wealth. The Fortress of Christian Kings was nearby and Jews were protected by the royal troops. We have to consider that the Jewish community was really hated by Christian people. Thus, Jews began to grow under the protection of the Kings. During the reign of Fernando III, Jews planned to build a huge synagogue next to the Mosque-Cathedral, one of the biggest in the world. The Bishop of Cordoba was outraged for this project and reported to Pope Innocent IV who ordered to stop the works immediately. Despite that order, the works continued for several years but the controversy and the Church's opposition prevailed and works had to be cancelled. Finally the Jewish community decided to build a small synagogue in the vicinity, the current synagogue located on Judios Street. Some of the most emblematic parts of the Jewish quarter are:

• Judíos Street Through Almodovar Gate we reach Judíos Street which leads straight to the Synagogue. It is a must-see spot for tourists who can admire its numerous monuments and points of interest.

• Tiberiades Square Walking down Judíos Street we will find Tiberiades Square where there is a small statue of Maimonides, famous philosopher, physician and Jewish rabbi born in Cordoba. Tradition says that if you touch the feet of Maimonides you will have good luck all your life. The square has a romantic essence difficult to find in the twenty-first century, enhanced by the musicians who come to perform.

• Maimonides Square Judíos Street finishes in Maimonides Square, a beautiful place where the NH Amistad Hotel is located.

• Deanes Street It is one of the most attractive streets of Cordoba for tourists: many souvenir shops, Tapas bars, ice cream shops...

• Flower Street Right in front of the North facade of the Mosque, we find Velazquez Bosco Street, surrounded by small craft and souvenir shops. If we continue this street a few meters up we will discover this narrow alley (Flower Street), one of the most visited streets in the city. This little street leads to a small square with a beautiful fountain. The whole street and the square are decorated with all types of flowers, creating a

rainbow of colors and aromas. From the square you can admire one of the most amazing views in the city, the bell tower of the Mosque-Cathedral across this narrow street.

• Pedro Jimenez Street If you leave the Mosque through Santa Catalina Gate and head to Martinez Rücker Street you will discover one of the most beautiful and attractive spots in the city. Popularly known as Calle Del Pañuelo (Handkerchief Alley), this small dead end street is one of the most popular in Cordoba. The average width of the street is similar to a handkerchief (approximately 50 centimeters) and ends in a small square with a romantic fountain from Arab Times and a typical whitewashed house of the Jewish quarter.

Sephardic House

First let’s analyze the etymology of the word Sephardi: Sephardi can be defined as the Jewish community that lived in Spain and was expelled in 1492 by the Catholic Kings. Fortunately, they still Jewish Quarter

Jewish Quarter

CORDOBA

“

There are two types of oranges: bitter orange (China) and sweet orange (India). During the Middle Ages, Muslims brought to the

Mediterranean basin this wonderful tree from China. In Spain the tree quickly adapted thanks to the benevolent climate (warm

summers and winters not really cold). The fruits of this tree are unsuitable for consumption as the oranges are bitter and sour.

Later, the Portuguese, great explorers and traders, introduced the sweet orange (India) in Europe.

In the sixteenth century the Spanish conquistadors took this tree to South America where its adaptation was successfully.

During the spring orange trees bloom which leads to an explosion of aromas: the streets and squares around old town become

impregnated with this pleasant sensation. Orange blossom is called “azahar” in Spanish. This word comes from Arabic and means "white flower". Finally, it worth noting

that orange blossom has remarkable therapeutic properties: Infusion of orange blossom: beneficial against stomach ailments

and headaches. Scent of Orange Blossom: It promotes sleep and calms anxiety.

Orange Blossom Water: It relieves menstrual pain. Petals in pure Alcohol: home fragrance.

Attention: Doctors do not recommend its use if the patient suffers from gastritis, stomach ulcer or pregnant women.

Orange Tree (Old Town)

“Azahar”: Orange Blossom

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 27

maintain links with Spain through traditions, language, gastronomy and culture. Currently, the Sephardic Community is present in many different countries: Israel, USA, Turkey, France etc. The Sephardic House is a Museum of Sephardic Culture, Art, History and Traditions. A unique place to admire how the Spanish Jews lived and how they felt during these difficult times that led to the expulsion of millions of Jews. The Museum consists of five exhibition halls which house a wonderful collection of pieces from different places (Fez, Istanbul, Tétouan or Alexandria), where the Spanish Jews went to live after being expelled. There is also an interesting shop where you can buy, for instance, “Hanukkah” items or traditional Sephardic music. It’s definitely worth a visit!

ow it's time to enjoy an interesting tour through the modern city. Cordoba, with more than 300,000 inhabitants, is a lively,

open and always welcoming city in the heart of Andalusia, a prosperous region with a unique cultural heritage. The center of the city is full of pedestrian areas and beautiful parks where one can have a shelter from the sun. In addition to all this, Cordoba is an ideal city for cycling thanks in large part to the numerous bike lanes around downtown.

Tendillas Square

Tendillas Square is considered by local people to be the main square of Cordoba: demonstrations, sport celebrations, speeches and others crowded events are held sporadically in this central square. In 1908 the Local Government began to build the Square as we know it today. To be able to carry out the project, they had to tear down, among others, the iconic Hotel Suizo which was located in the area. During the twenties, the initial project underwent several changes and important buildings were built: Fernandez Marin´s House (1926) Building of the Union and Fenix (1927). During the Civil War the building was equipped with an alarm that warned the population when there were bombings. Telefonica Building (1927) Colomera House (1927) Building Siena (1928) The equestrian statue that today dominates Tendillas Square was placed initially in the Gran Capitan Boulevard but in 1927 it was moved here. This elegant statue was designed in honor of the legendary Spanish military Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, popularly known as “The Great Captain” (page 32). One of the great attractions of this Square is its clock, designed in 1961. This famous clock, is the only in the World that strikes the

hours with Flamenco guitar music. It's worth waiting and listening! The last major renovation took place in 1999 after which the square was turned into a pedestrian zone where only buses and taxis are allowed to circulate.

Tendillas S

Each December 31 “cordobeses” come to Tendillas Square to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

For more than a hundred years, Spanish people have a curious tradition of eating 12 grapes in 12 seconds as the clock marks the

final twelve hours of the year. if you get to gulp down all the grapes, you will have good luck during the coming year. The origin of this

tradition goes back to the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. During these years, German and French aristocrats had the

habit of eating grapes and drinking champagne during the New Year´s Eve dinner. Shortly after, the Spanish aristocracy copied the habit.

But people in Spain have a great sense of humour: lower-class people in Madrid ironically began to imitate the aristocrats in eating grapes during New Year´s Eve. Parallel, in 1909 grape harvest suffered from surplus in the eastern provinces of Spain and producers needed to

sell them. They saw a business opportunity and decided to popularize the

recent habit of eating grapes on New Year's Eve.

Gradually, this habit consolidated in others parts of the country until today. If you try, be careful and don’t

choke on grapes!

Cruz Conde Str.

In 1926 the mayor of Cordoba, Cruz Conde inaugurated this street amidst great controversy as it was necessary to demolish several old buildings. This new street improved traffic flow between Tendillas Square and Ronda de los Tejares Avenue, two of the main thoroughfares in the city. Shortly after the inauguration, the street was filled with trendy shops, cafes, boutiques, snack bars, jewelers and became the most cosmopolitan street in Cordoba. In 2010, Cruz Conde Street, after significant improvement works, was converted into a beautiful pedestrian area, ideal for shopping and having a stroll.

Ronda de los Tejares Avenue

Ronda de los Tejares is one of the main avenues in Cordoba and connects Paseo de la Victoria Avenue with Colon Gardens. This crowded avenue is dominated by two high buildings:

N

CORDOBA

Address: Calle Judíos, 17 Prices: General 4€ / Reduced 3€ Opening Hours: (11:00-18:00) Sundays (11:00-14:00) Bank Holidays (10:00-18:00)

Modern Cordoba

Tendillas Square

Cruz Conde Street

Address: Plaza de las Tendillas Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Tendillas Square & New Year´s Eve

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 28

• El Corte Ingles Department Store: The building is six storeys high and since its construction has had a commercial use. Formerly, the building belonged to Galerias Preciados but the company had to be sold to El Corte Ingles due to the huge debts of the owner. After this acquisition, El Corte Ingles became the largest Department Store Group in Europe and 4th in the world. Today the company operates three Department Stores in Cordoba, two of them in downtown. • Building CajaSur This modern building houses the headquarters of CajaSur, the major bank in the city and one of the most important in Andalusia. The Presidency and General Management are centralized in this building. Hence, security measures are strong. Recently, CajaSur Bank was acquired by the Basque bank BBK due to some financial difficulties.

Gardens of Agriculture

Between the Railway Station and Victoria Avenue are located the Gardens of Agriculture, a beautiful park in the middle of the city center and very popular among “cordobeses”. This park (1811) is the ideal place to take a rest after a long day walking or just relax while waiting for your train. The Gardens of Agriculture are divided by two large fountains and a small pond inhabited by ducks and pigeons. The wide variety of leafy trees (banana tree, ginkgo tree, horse chestnut...) provides plenty of shade.

The huge sculpture which presides over the park is dedicated to the famous painter Julio Romero de Torres. At the entrance of the park, near Victoria Avenue, there is a small statue dedicated to the owner of a small kiosk who was sadly murdered one night in the park.

Paseo de la Victoria Avenue

Paseo de la Victoria Avenue is considered to be one of the traffic arteries of the city: every day hundreds of cars, buses, taxis and motorbikes crowd the avenue during peak hours. Paseo de la Victoria Avenue starts at Red Cross Roundabout and ends at Galindo Aguilar Roundabout, connecting with Ronda de Tejares Avenue. Running parallel to this avenue, we find a beautiful park called Victory Gardens. These wonderful gardens began to be designed in 1776 and were subsequently extended and modified until today. For many years, the City Fair (Nuestra Señora de la Salud) took place at the Victory Gardens, but fortunately in 1994 was moved to the

new Fairground (Arenal). The City Fair caused extensive damage to the gardens, not to mention drunken people wandering and causing havoc everywhere. Victory Gardens has high-value species such as:

Tree of Love

Date Palm

Washingtonia Palm

Canary Pine

Carob tree

Los Califas Bullring The bull is an animal closely linked to the Mediterranean culture (Greece, Southern France, Crete, Spain, Portugal Italy...). In Spain bullfighting is part of the cultural heritage: the great poet Federico Garcia Lorca, big fan of bullfighting, called it "authentic religious drama". Supporters or detractors, nobody can deny that bullfighting is an important generator of wealth in large parts of southern Spain (Andalusia, Extremadura, Castilla La Mancha ...) and helps to create many jobs. In Cordoba bullfights have been intimately linked to the history of the city. According to historical documents, the first bullfight in Cordoba took place in 1492. For centuries, Corredera Square was the place chosen to hold these primitive bullfights. Later, in the nineteenth century, were built several wooden bullrings (1815, 1820 and 1827) near Ronda Los Tejares Avenue to meet the needs of a city where bullfights are more than a mere show. Los Califas Bullring was finally inaugurated in 1965 and today is considered as one of the best bullrings in Spain (16,900 spectators). At the same time, Cordoba has been the birthplace of important national bullfighting heroes: Machaquito, Lagartigo, Manolete, Guerrita, El Cordobes. The bullfighting season starts around March and ends in October. The last week of May (Fair of Our Lady of Health) is the ideal time to enjoy this exciting show since some of the best bullfighters visit the city.

Gran Capitan Boulevard

Gran Capitan Boulevard extends from Ronda de los Tejares Avenue to the Church of San Nicolas, one of the most beautiful of the modern city. Church masterfully fuses different styles: Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance. In the nineteenth century, the Railroad reached Cordoba and the Local Government decided to carry out an ambitious plan to renovate much of the city center and meet the expectations. The Government decided to build a wide avenue from the city center to the old Train Station (now Headquarters of the Andalusian Public Television). This avenue allowed the city to have typically bourgeois spaces to

Ronda Tejares Avenue & Caja Sur Building

Gardens of Agriculture

Address: Avenida America, Avenida Mozarabes and Avenida Cervantes. Prices: - Opening Hours: -

CORDOBA

Manolete Monument (Conde Priego Square)

Address: Avenida Gran Vía Parque. s/n Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 29

accommodate the growing upper classes such as Gran Capitan Cafe, considered the most luxurious in Andalusia, and the Grand Theatre. During the twentieth century, important buildings were designed: Bank of Spain, Trade Union Building, Jerez Bank Building or Treasury Department Building. Over the years, urban development was accelerated and traffic on this avenue became a hell: too many cars, noisy buses and motorcycles caused air pollution and traffic congestion. Fortunately, the avenue was transformed into a pedestrian boulevard (1989) where people could do shopping, stroll, have a drink or simply feed the doves.

Real Circulo de la Amistad

The small Alfonso XIII Street boasts one of the most luxurious buildings in downtown, “El Circulo de la Amistad”, a former casino. This institution was founded in 1854 by the emerging bourgeoisie and upper class of Cordoba Society. Thanks to its construction, the city finally had a place where Culture and Art went hand in hand: scholars, poets, painters and journalists gathered here to discuss and philosophize about current issues. Today, the building houses interesting pictorial collections as well as a fantastic library with more than 17000 copies that members (over 300) can use, elegant rooms, romantic courtyards, gardens, games room, an old-fashioned cafe and even a traditional tavern. This long-established institution hasn´t changed its trajectory and continues to organize cultural activities, photography exhibitions...

Paseo de Córdoba Boulevard & Libertad Avenue

The inauguration of the High Speed Train (AVE) deeply changed Cordoba: a new Train Station was built and the railroads were buried, releasing a huge building plot in the heart of midtown (highly coveted by voracious building companies). After several months of planning, the Council decided to build a huge boulevard (Paseo de Cordoba) with more than 1800 meters of gardens, fountains, beautiful streetlights, bike lanes etc. Next to this great Boulevard, was designed the Libertad Avenue, which connects northern suburbs of the city with the new Train Station. For many years,

Cordoba had been a city trapped in its past but this urban development led Cordoba to the 21st century. Soon, this part of the city became the most exclusive area of Cordoba, frequented by well off people: chic pubs, restaurants, clubs, modern Hotels and expensive apartments with private pool were designed to meet the growing demand. When good weather comes to Cordoba, people come to walk, jog roller blade or cycle, filling the nice boulevard.

Colon Park

Colon Park is one of the most beautiful parks in downtown and is located on Colon Square (few meters away from Ronda de los Tejares Avenue). Thanks to its privileged location, Colon Park has become an ideal place to relax, admire the beautiful trees and get your strength back after a long day visiting Cordoba. In the middle of the park there is a beautiful fountain (designed by Carlos Saez de Santamaria in 1920) that deserves to be photographed. On one side of the park you can see a small mosque known as the "Morabito" which was built during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) to serve the troops from North Africa. The Park has a wide variety of trees and plants:

• Banana Trees • Pines • Palms

The park is full of people at any time of the day so it is not a dangerous place for tourists. Naturally, we recommend you keep some basic precautions such as guarding your belongings, your camera and passport.

CORDOBA

Building of the Union and Fenix (Tendillas Square)

Address: Calle de Alfonso XIII Prices: - Opening Hours: - Website: www.circuloamistad.com

Paseo de Cordoba Boulevard

Colon Park

Morabito Mosque

Address: Colon Square Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Ronda de los Tejares Avenue

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 30

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3

Like any city, Cordoba can be visited quickly in one day or otherwise

you may need a lifetime to visit each of the beautiful places of this

wonderful medieval city. In Mundo Guides we recommend you a three-day

itinerary in order not to miss any detail and enjoy the essence of one of

world´s important cities during the Middle Ages.

11:30 Walking Tour: The Jewish Quarter

Almodovar GateJudios StreetSynagogueAndalusi HouseTiberiades SquareDeanes StreetFlowers

Street.

16:00 Calahorra Tower (Al-Andalus Museum)

and Roman Bridge

17:30 Square of the Colt & Inn of the Colt

19:00 Corredera Square

19:30 Roman Temple of Claudius Marcellus

Street

20:00 Dinner: San Rafael Restaurant

21:00 Back to the Hotel

10:45 Royal Stables

13:45 Lunch: La Viuda Restaurant

16:15 Santa Marina Church & Monument to Manolete

19:15 Hammam Al-Andalus Enjoy a complete thermal circuit (cold, warm and hot

water)

20:45 Dinner: Hammam Al-Andalus Restaurant

21:45 Back to the Hotel

10:45 Visit the Museum and the ruins of Madinat al-Zahra

13:00 Back to Cordoba

13:30 Lunch: Casa Rubio Restaurant

18:00 Visit Downtown:

Jesus Maria StreetTendillas SquareCruz Conde StreetRonda de los Tejares AvenueBoulevard del Gran

CapitanConcepcion StreetGondomar Street

14:30 Fortress of the Christian Kings

12:15 Sephardic House

10:00 Visit the Great Mosque 10:00 Caliphal Baths 10:15 Bus Stop Paseo de la Victoria (Glorieta de la

Cruz Roja) Destination Madinat al-Zahra

11:30 Leather Shop-Museum (Encarnacion Street)

17:00 San Agustin Church

13:00 Lunch: San Basilio Restaurant

18:00 Julio Romero de Torres Museum 17:45 San Lorenzo Church

16:00 Archaeological Museum

20:00/20:30 Dinner: Tavern San Miguel Casa Pisto

22:30 Flamenco Show: El Cardenal

Back to the Hotel

Cordoba in Three Days

Establishments and Restaurants recommended by Mundo Guides in this

three-day itinerary have been included for their good reputation and

close location to the major points of interest. In any case, they are not

sponsored recommendations.

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 31

uring the month of May, the entire city is awash with the colors and scents of spring and hundreds of thousands of tourists fill the narrow streets of Old Town. There are two

celebrations marking the beginning of the spring in Cordoba: Patios Festival and Fair of Our Lady of Health (Feria de Nuestra Señora de la Salud).

• Patios Festival (Throughout the month of May) The Jewish quarter of Cordoba is full of small whitewashed houses which retain their original structure from the Middle Ages: a central courtyard around which the rooms are located. These houses were built in this way to try to mitigate the heat during the long summer months. At the same time, the white color of the facades repels the sun’s rays, helping to reduce the temperature inside the houses. In the past, these courtyards (patios) were the center of social life for families: here they gathered to chat, discuss or just relax at the end of the day. Gradually, the neighbors began to place and decorate the patios with many flowers and plants which they fussed over the whole year. Even in some courtyards were built deep wells used to water the plants. This lifestyle has remained unchanged right up until the present day and Local Authorities are firmly committed to protecting this

beautiful tradition. With this aim, the City Council holds a contest for patio owners since 1918: families strive to place beautiful flowers and water them, clean and paint the walls and restore the wrought iron chairs which get rusty by the harsh effects of wintry weather. When spring comes the town, these romantic courtyards open their doors to the public and a jury, composed of architects, experts in botany and a city councilor, decides the winner after visiting the participating patios (over 45). This patio contest attracts every year many thousands of visitors to the city who try to admire and photograph this wonderful spectacle of color. Currently, the festival is proposed to become a World Heritage Site in 2013, which would help preserve this beautiful tradition that runs the risk of losing relevance as many families cannot devote much time to decorate the courtyard.

• Fair Our Lady of Health (Last week of May) It is, undoubtedly, the most important festive event in Cordoba. A lot of women dressed in gorgeous traditional Sevillanas costumes and beautifully decorated horse carriages fill the streets during the whole week, creating a special atmosphere in the city. The fairground (Arenal) is located near the Guadalquivir River. Inside this complex are installed attractions for young people, Ferris wheels, raffles, food kiosks and tents where you can eat typical tapas and enjoy fine wine produced in Andalusia. These tents are called "casetas" and usually admission is free of charge. In addition, “casetas” have a festive

atmosphere really difficult to forget: loud music, live performances, garlands and people dancing the whole day.

ow we propose a route through four of the most influential figures in the history of Cordoba: Seneca, Averroes, Maimonides and Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba.

Seneca

Cordoba, 4 B.C. - Rome, 65. Seneca was a famous Roman stoic philosopher, statesman, orator and writer. During his life in Rome Seneca became an admired Senator and advisor to Emperor Nero. Seneca came from a wealthy Roman family that lived in Cordoba. His father was the famous writer and orator Marco Annaeus Seneca. Seneca was very young when he was sent to Rome to receive the best academic training possible. During his years in Rome Seneca lived with his aunt and uncle, who were economically well-off. After a few years in the capital of the Empire, Seneca and his relatives went to live in Alexandria (Egypt) where he completed his excellent education and specialized in subjects such as geography and meteorology. When Seneca was 31, he returned to Rome, where he soon emerged as a great writer and orator and became one of the most influential Senators of Rome. Unfortunately, some clashes with the Emperor led him to be sentenced to death several times. Fortunately, he avoided death and ended up in exile on the island of Corsica for eight years. Thanks to the Emperor's new wife, Agrippina, Seneca returned to Rome where he was appointed Praetor of Rome and became Nero's tutor (Agrippina´s son, the future Emperor). When Seneca was 54, the Emperor Claudius was poisoned by his wife Agrippina. Immediately afterwards, Nero (Seneca's pupil) was chosen as the new Emperor, he was 16 years old. During the early years of his mandate, Seneca played a very important role as a trusted political advisor to Nero. No decision was taken without the consent of Seneca (were enacted numerous financial reforms and important laws that deeply changed Rome). When Nero reached adulthood, Emperor began to feel that he should get rid of the influence of Seneca. This was exploited by the enemies of Seneca who started a smear campaign: they accused him of excessive wealth and lavish banquets and even of having sex with Agrippina, Nero´s mother. Few years later, Nero cruelly murdered Agrippina. From this moment, the Emperor was surrounded by sycophants and Roman parasites who wanted to expel Seneca from Rome. Shortly after that, Seneca tried to escape from this deplorable situation and asked to retire from political life. During this voluntary retirement Seneca spent his time traveling through Italy and writing essays (Letters to Lucilius). Finally, when he was 65, Seneca was wrongfully accused of participating in an assassination attempt against Nero. The sentence was irrevocable: the death penalty. When Seneca got the news he could not believe it. He knew that Nero would kill him with the greatest cruelty possible.

D N

Springtime Explosion

Typical Andalusian Courtyard

Who are they?

CORDOBA

Seneca

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 32

Seneca, terrified, committed suicide at his home. Other members of his family such as his brothers and his nephew also killed themselves: they were certain that the cruelty of Nero would fall on them as well.

Averroes

Cordoba, 1126 - Marrakech, 1198. Averroes was a famous Andalusian philosopher, physician and teacher of philosophy, Islamic law, mathematics, astronomy and medicine. Averroes came from a wealthy family who worked as judges in Al-Andalus, profession that later he also would practice in Seville and Cordoba. Years later, he was appointed personal physician to the Caliph, a very important and influential position. Probably one of his most important contributions was the medical encyclopedia and the comments on the work of Aristotle. Jacob Anatoli (1194 - 1256) translated his texts from Arabic into Hebrew. From then on Averroes's teachings spread rapidly throughout Europe. His texts were also translated into Latin by some scholars, contributing to popularize the work of Averroes. At the end of the twelfth century, a wave of fanaticism and radical Islamism invaded Al-Andalus. We are talking about Almohades who stated that the works of Averroes were incompatible with Islam. They banned all his works, his personal library was burned and the philosopher was exiled from the capital. During his exile, Averroes lived in Lucena, a prosperous town in the province of Cordoba. Finally, the Andalusian erudite died in Marrakech when he was 72 years old.

Maimonides

Cordoba 1135 - Fustat (Egypt) 1204 Maimonides was the most famous doctor, rabbi and Jewish theologian of the middle Ages: his influence in medieval thought was notorious and globally accepted. His most important work is the “Guide for the Perplexed”, a philosophical treatise written originally in Arabic. Maimonides came from a particular family. The paternal family was rich. They worked as rabbinical judges and were leaders of the Jewish community in Cordoba. His mother's family was very humble: his grandfather was a butcher and his grandmother died very young. Since Maimonides was a child, he received excellent education in Cordoba: during the Middle Ages, the city was one of the most important cultural centers of the world, the ideal place to study, learn and gain popularity.

When Maimonides was thirteen years old a radical Islamic wave, promoted by Almohades, reached Al-Andalus and Maimónides and his family pretended to convert to Islam. Unfortunately, Local Authorities discovered the origin of the family and they were eventually expelled from Al-Andalus. Maimonides lived in Almeria for a few years, where he helped to hide Averroes from this radical wave. In 1160 the family decided to move to Fez (Morocco) but Almohades spread inevitably to North Africa. Very worried and frustrated, Maimonides moved to Egypt where finally he lived happily. In Egypt he worked as personal doctor to several Egyptian ministers. Finally, in December 1204 he died and his corpse was moved to Tiberiades (Israel).

Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba (The Great Captain)

Montilla (Cordoba), 1453 - Loja (Granada), 1515 Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba was a nobleman, politician and military leader very famous in Spain. When he was a child he waited on Prince Alfonso, brother of the future Queen Isabel. When Alfonso died Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba joined the Queen´s personal entourage. Shortly after his marriage with Isabel de Montemayor, his wife died. From this moment Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba was plunged into a deep depression and decided to devote himself to military service of the Catholic Kings. One of his first achievements was the successful negotiation with the Moorish King Boabdil. Thanks to these negotiations Catholics took over Granada in 1492. As a reward, Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba received the Order of Santiago and large amounts of money. Later something happened that changed the life of Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba forever: France invaded Naples. Spain, which was an ally of the King of Naples, could not allow this humiliating situation. The Spanish Catholic Kings organized a formidable fleet of ships that sailed to Italy to defeat the French troops. After this victory, Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba began to be known as “El Gran Capitan” (The Great Captain). As a result of the war, Naples was divided into two parts: the north part which belonged to France and the south part which belonged to Spain. Shortly after that, the French army broke the pact and attacked

CORDOBA

Address: Almodovar Gate Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Address: Calle Cairuan Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Averroes

Address: Plaza Tiberiades Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Maimonides

Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 33

the Spanish cities in Naples. Once more The Great Captain and his fleet arrived in Italy and brutally defeated the French army. In 1504 Queen Isabel died and King Fernando and Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba slowly cooled their relationship. King believed that The Great Captain had higher aspirations and hidden secrets: the independence to Naples. Faced with this situation, King Fernando asked him to return to Spain. Once in Spain, the King separated The Great Captain from the political and military life. Frustrated, Gonzalo Fernandez de Cordoba retired to Loja (Granada) where he died in 1515.

Almodovar Castle

Almodovar Castle is located 22 km from Cordoba on a hill 252 meters high. The castle's position made it strategically important in safeguarding the town of Almodovar. At the same time, the proximity of the Guadalquivir River allowed vessels to be identified, to report their positions before arriving in Cordoba. Previously this hill was occupied by a Roman fort of which unfortunately, nothing remains today. In 760, under Muslim rule, the Caliph began to build this imposing castle. Despite the numerous reforms carried out over the years, it is easy to find Muslim building elements such as some of the arches. In 1240 the castle passed into Christian hands and tremendous works were carried out to reconstruct the walls and improve the defensive system of the castle. The last major reform was undertaken in 1903 by the Earl of Torralva, owner of the castle. The most interesting parts of the fortress are: the Tower of Homage, the Tower of the School, and the beautiful castle walls. Tourists can visit this castle every day of the year except December 25th and January 1st. Weekends and public holidays the castle is open all day, being able to visit it with a guide or on your own. Medieval lunches are another tourist attraction in this wonderful castle. They are held on Sundays and bank holidays (from October to May). The courtyards of the castle are also used for various events and business lunches.

Priego

Priego is a small and lovely town located in the heart of Subbetica mountain range, 100 km away from Cordoba and bordering with Jaen and Granada. The Mountains that protect Priego de Cordoba were once inhabited by bears and wolves and were a refuge for outlaws, popularly known as “bandoleros”, in the nineteenth century. At the same time, Priego, one of the most beautiful towns in Andalusia, has a very interesting cultural heritage dating from Roman Times to the wonderful Spanish Baroque, without forgetting the Al-Andalus period. Besides its large cultural offer, Priego is one of the best places in Andalusia to deepen your knowledge on olive oil. This area of the province of Cordoba produces some of the best olive oils in the world. Several companies offer great tours and guided visits to olive oil factories, which are really interesting. Alandalus Tours (http://www.alandalus-tour.com/search/label/English).

The Roman Times

Unfortunately, little information is available about the Roman occupation. According to archaeologists, the Roman Empire founded the city between the third and the fifth century. If you are interested in visiting some Roman remains (pottery vessels, tombs, kilometer marker etc.) you can visit the Municipal Historical Museum which is well worth a visit.

The Muslim Era (Al-Andalus)

During the years of Muslim rule, Priego de Cordoba enjoyed great prosperity and the town became coveted object of desire among Muslim Lords (Hafsún Ben Omar, Mastana and Banu Said ben Matruh). When the Caliphate of Cordoba disintegrated (1030), the Empire began to split into different realms (taifas) and Priego de Cordoba became a part of the Nazari Kingdom of Granada. In the eleventh century, the city was conquered by the Almoravides and later by Almohades (12

th century).

During the years of Muslim occupation, a beautiful Moorish fortress was built which was later renovated and converted into a castle by the Christians in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Near the castle we can also enjoy a stroll around the historic “De la Villa” neighborhood dating back to Muslim Times: its white, winding and narrow streets remind of the Albayzin (Granada) or the Jewish quarter in Cordoba.

The Christian Era

In 1225 King Fernando III conquered the city and declared it officially Christian. The King was aware of the need to control Priego to continue the “Reconquest” (conquest of Arab territories in Spain by the Christian troops). Thus, the King commissioned the Order of Calatrava (powerful military and religious Order) to protect the city. But all plans of King Fernando III collapsed when the city was conquered again by the Muslim armies. Finally, in 1341 the Christian King Alfonso XI took possession of the city again: shortly after, the Moorish fortress was renovated and converted into castle and the city was repopulated with Christian people from all over the country, especially from North Spain. In the sixteenth century was built a beautiful fountain, called Fuente de la

Address: Tendillas Square Prices: - Opening Hours: -

Daytrips

Address: Calle del Castillo 14720 Almodóvar del Río (Cordoba) Prices: General 5€ / Reduced 4€ Opening Hours: Open every day except on 25

th of December and

1st

of January. 1

st April – 30

th September: Monday-Friday 11:00-14:30 & 16:00-

19:00 / Weekends and Bank Holidays 11:00-19:00 1

st October – 31

st March: Monday-Fridays 11:00-14:30 & 16:00-

20:00 / Weekends and Bank Holidays 11:00-20:00 Website: http://www.castillodealmodovar.com

How to get

By car: From Cordoba. Take

the road to Palma del Río

(N-431).

By Bus: San Sebastian

Buses. You have to buy the

ticket at the Bus Station in

Cordoba. Once in

Almodovar, you have to

walk up to the castle which

is perched on a rocky ridge.

CORDOBA

Medieval Quarter

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 34

Salud (Fountain of Health): according to popular legend, the armies of Alfonso XI camped here during the siege of the city (1341). However this information was never confirmed.

San Francisco Church: This small church was built in the first half of the sixteenth century although it underwent extensive remodeling in the eighteenth century (Baroque style). Inside the church there is a small chapel which houses a wonderful wood sculpture of Jesus of Nazarethdesigned in 1592. During Holy Week -one of the best times to visit the town- the sculpture is enthusiastically venerated by the inhabitants of Priego who carry it in procession through the city.

From the Sixteenth Century – Until Today

During all these centuries Priego de Cordoba experienced moments of decay and prosperity as well as serious epidemics that decimated the population. In the sixteenth century the beautiful Church of the Assumption was designed by Francisco Javier Pedrajas in a baroque-rococo style. The whole interior is profusely decorated with white plaster, simulating the ascent to heaven. The sacristy (El Sagrario), built in 1784, is considered one of the masterpieces of Spanish Baroque. In 1803 La Fuente del Rey (King´s Fountain) was built. This is one of the most popular places in town: all tourists come to visit this beautiful monument and take pictures of one of the most famous fountains in Andalusia. The Fountain consists of 139 jets, many of them decorated with stone ghost face masks, and three ponds located at different levels. There are also two really beautiful sculptures representing The Lion and The Snake and Neptune with Amphitrite. Over the years, the textile industry and agriculture allowed the city to grow and population increased dramatically, gaining importance in the province of Cordoba. Taffeta and velvet were some of the most famous and appreciated products in Priego. They were even exported to important cities such as Paris, Seville, Malaga or even to America. Currently, the production of olive oil is an engine of economic growth and is considered by gastronomic experts as one of the best in the world. We recommend booking a tour and discover one of these olive oil factories. WHAT TO VISIT

Balcón del Adarve (Adarve Balcony)

Barrio de la Villa (Medieval Quarter)

Matadero y Mercado de la Villa (Slaughterhouse and Market Villa)

Castle

Iglesia de la Asuncion (Assumption Church)

Fuente del Rey (King´s Fountain)

Fuente de la Salud (Fountain of Health)

Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Square)

Iglesia de San Francisco (San Francisco Church)

Iglesia de la Aurora y San Nicasio (Church of Aurora and San Nicasio)

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de las Angustias (Church of Our Lady of Sorrows)

Calle del Rio (River Street)

Museo Histórico Municipal (Municipal Historical Museum)

Plaza de Toros (Bullring)

A nice way to discover the city is the "Chiquibus” which is an electric minibus that offers a tour through the main tourist attractions (5€). Tours are available in English, Spanish and French. For more information, visit the Tourist Office on Constitution Square.

Cave of the Bats (Zuheros)

Zuheros is a beautiful village of 800 inhabitants with typical Andalusian whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, located 76 kilometers from Cordoba. Mundo Guides strongly recommends a visit to the Cave of the Bats, which is a place of great historical value for archaeologists and experts. This cave, which is 4 km away from Zuheros, can be considered as one of the best Neolithic and Paleolithic sites in Europe (35000 and 18000 years ago). Thanks to the work of local archaeologists, valuable remains have been found: food scraps, animal bones, personal items and rock paintings (horses, deer ...). During the Roman times this cave was also used as a shelter to protect against bad weather conditions. Since many years, the cave is dwelled by a large bat community that gives the cave its name. But Zuheros is not just caves. Surrounding the village there is a beautiful Natural Park called Sierras Subbéticas where you can perform activities such as hiking or rock climbing. The Castle of Zuheros of Muslim origin stands on a small cliff, overlooking the valley.

How to get By car: The journey from Cordoba to Priego is safe and

pleasant. Take the motorway A-340. Once you reach

Lucena, follow the instructions to Cabra, Carcabuey and

finally, you will get to Priego de Cordoba.

By Bus: Buses from Cordoba Bus Station (Carrera Buses).

CORDOBA

King´s Fountain

San Francisco Church

How to get By Car: Take the road to Granada. When you get to

Baena follow the instructions to Zuheros.

By Bus: There are daily bus links between Cordoba

and Zuheros (Carrera Buses) departing from Cordoba

Bus Station

Prices: General 6€ / Reduced 4€ Opening Hours (Guided Tours): 1

st October – 31

st

March: 12:30 & 16:30 / Weekends and Bank Holidays: 11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 16:00 & 17:30 1

st April – 30

th September: 12:30 & 17:30 / Weekends

and Bank Holidays: 11:00, 12:30, 14:00, 17:00 & 18:30 Groups of more than 20 people are not accepted so it is highly advisable to book in advance. Website: http://www.cuevadelosmurcielagos.com/ Telephone: 957694545

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 35

Archaeological Museum

Fortunately for visitors, the Archaeological Museum does justice to the amazing historical legacy of the city. According to some historians and archaeologists, this magnificent Museum, is the second best in Spain after the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid. Thanks to recent reforms, the Museum has been expanded and visitors can admire wonderful pieces from Prehistory to the Middle Ages in a wonderful journey through the history of the city. We strongly recommend you not to miss:

• Glass Neolithic

• Sculpture of Lion (V century B.C.)

• Treasury of Almadenes (second century B.C.)

• Sculpture of Mithras (second century)

• Statues of Roman Emperors

• Coin Collection of Al-Andalus: it´s considered as one of the world's most important.

• Collection of Medina al-Zahra: capitals, columns, fountains...

The ancient Roman Theatre of Cordoba was discovered on the foundations of the current Archaeological Museum of Cordoba, as well as some roman craft workshops and medieval Arab houses. If you wish you can visit the stands of the Roman Theatre in one of the rooms of the Museum.

According to some historians, the Roman philosopher Seneca was born and lived during his childhood in the streets surrounding the Museum. Finally, the Archaeological Museum of Cordoba boasts a large library specializing in archeology, museums and historical heritage. With this library the City Council performs a truly remarkable educational function.

Julio Romero de Torres Museum

Julio Romero de Torres (1874-1930) was the most important painter in the history of Cordoba. In this house lived and worked the great Andalusian painter, who had an enormous popularity in Spain because of his eccentric character, his bitter polemics with the critics as well as the theme of his work. During his years in Cordoba, the young artist enjoyed the cultural life of the city to the fullest: it was here where he acquired his artistic knowledge and where he did his first works, gaining tremendous popularity in Andalusia. But soon the artist moved to Madrid where the possibilities were infinitely greater. In the Spanish capital he met the most important painters of the time and become a public figure known throughout Spain. Later, he made several trips to Europe and participated in several competitions in different European cities. But his greatest success was achieved in Buenos Aires (1922) where his exhibition was acclaimed by the audience. In 1930 the painter had liver disease and decided to return to his hometown. Back in Cordoba, he tried to live quietly and dedicate to painting and contemplation. Few months before dying, he painted his final work and one of the most popular paintings of Julio Romero de Torres, “La Chiquita Piconera”. If you visit this great Museum, the most visited in Cordoba, we strongly recommend you not to miss the following paintings:

• The Poem of Cordoba

• Marta

• Cante Hondo

• Carmen

• La Chiquita Piconera

• El retablo del amor

The current Museum is open since 1936 and reflects the popularity and the great love that “Cordobeses” feel for the painter.

CORDOBA

Museums & Culture

Jeronimo Paez Square and Archaeological Museum

Address: Plaza Jerónimo Páez

Prices: General 1,5€ EU Citizens Free Admission

Opening Hours: Tuesday (14:30-20:30) Wednesday-Saturday

(09:00-20:30) Sunday (09:00-14:30) Monday Closed

Julio Romero de Torres Musuem

Address: Plaza del Potro 1

Prices: General 4,5€ / Reduced 2,25€ / Fridays Free Admission

Opening Hours: 16th

Sept- 15th

Jun: Tuesday – Friday (08:30-19:30) /

Saturday (08:30-16:30) / Sunday & Bank Holidays (09:30-14:30) /

Monday Closed

16th

Jun – 15th

Sept: Tuesday – Saturday (08:30-14:30) / Sunday &

Bank Holidays (09:30-14:30) / Monday Closed

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 36

Museum of Fine Arts

This wonderful Museum, located in the historic Square of the Colt, is one of the most visited in Cordoba due to its huge variety of works by renowned artists. The Museum was opened in 1862 although previously the building housed a hospital built by the Catholic Kings (fifteenth century). Once inside the Museum, visitors can enjoy an excellent collection of sculptures and paintings, which is unique in Andalusia. The upper floor is dedicated to the medieval era, Renaissance

and Baroque. On the ground floor you will find works of the nineteenth and twentieth century. Special mention should be made of the wonderful patio and the mosaic made with small stones. Major Works:

“Still Life with Oranges” (Rafael Romero Barros)

“Altarpiece of the Flagellation” (Anonymous)

“Escape to Egypt” (Acisclo Antonio Palomino)

“San Nicolas de Bari” (Pedro de Córdoba)

Flamenco Cultural Center “Fosforito”

This Museum is located in a beautiful house built in the fifteenth century which is popularly known as Inn of the Colt (one of the oldest hotels in Europe). In the past, this neighborhood was one of the most important urban centers of the city: the streets were full of vitality and many craft workshops and taverns opened their doors. Recently, the Government has undertaken a series of improvements to house the Flamenco Cultural Center which is devoted to the legendary flamenco singer (cantaor) Fosforito, who was born in Cordoba (1932). Currently, this Cultural Center organizes all kind of activities related to the world of Flamenco (photo exhibitions, record launches...). At the same time, an interesting Flamenco library, a video library and a shop have been built to complete this wonderful Museum. In short, this Cultural Center is a perfect place to broaden your knowledge of this musical style, typically Spanish.

Museum of Leather Crafts

“Guadameci” technique can be defined as a artisanal technique whereby the sheep leather is tanned and decorated with gold and silver thread. This technique was introduced in Europe by Muslims. Shortly after, Cordoba became the largest production center of embossed leather in the world and Madinat al-Zahra one of the largest craft workshops of the time. In this Museum we can admire the works by Ramon Garcia Romero, one of the most acclaimed artists in the city and promoter of this Museum. His collection ranges from the beautiful “guadamecíes” to also famous “cordobanes”. All his works show different leatherworking techniques and reveal the beauty of this material.

Al-Andalus Living Museum

The three floors of the Tower offer us a tour through the history of the city to discover the culture, customs and traditions of the people during Al-Andalus, one of the greatest Empires in the Middle Ages (711 to 1492). We can admire models of the Mosque of Cordoba and other important monuments in Andalusia such as the Alhambra of Granada. At the end of the visit we can enjoy magnificent views from the battlements of the Tower: the Guadalquivir River, the Roman Bridge and the Mosque. In a nutshell, this Museum is an incredible place where East and West come together.

Bullfighting Museum The history of Andalusia cannot be understood without bullfights “Toreo” in Spanish. In some rural areas of Andalusia bullfighting still plays a very important role in generating huge economic benefits: farmers, transporters, veterinarians… The fight between a bull and a man has been a constant in the Mediterranean culture since centuries ago. But unfortunately, over the years this tradition has only been preserved in Spain, Portugal and small areas of Italy and France. Bullfighting has fierce detractors but also illustrious defenders: the great poet Federico Garcia Lorca called it "authentic religious drama", others artists such as Goya, Picasso and Edouard Manet have been

Courtyard (Museum of Fine Arts)

Address: Plaza del Potro 1

Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free Admission

Opening Hours: Tuesday: 14:30-20:30 / Wednesday-Saturday:

09:00-20:30 / Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09:00-14:30

Monday closed

Address: Plaza del Potro

Prices: Free Admission

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday: 09:30-14:30 & 16:30-19:00

Inn of the Colt (Flamenco Cultural Center Fosforito)

CORDOBA

Address: Plaza de la Agrupacion de Cofradias 2

Prices: Free Admission

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (11:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:00)

Sunday (11:00-14:00) Monday Closed

Address: Calahorra Tower (Puente Romano s/n)

Prices: General 4,5€ / Reduced 3€ / Multivision Slideshow 1,2€

(estimated duration: 2 hours)

Opening Hours: From 1st Oct to 30th Apr (10:00-18:00) / From 1st

May to 30th Sept (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-20:30)

Cairuan Street

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 37

also staunch defenders of bullfighting and even many of their works included bullfighting motifs. Some of the most important bullfighters in history were born in Cordoba (Manolete, Machaquito or Lagartijo). They all have a special place in the Museum. At the same time, visitors can enjoy interesting stories, photographs, costumes or bullfighting items as capotes, banderillas, monteras... It is well worth a visit. If you want to extend your knowledge of the world of bullfighting, visit the fantastic Los Califas Bullring, one of the best in Spain. The Museum is temporarily closed.

Diocesan Museum

This wonderful Museum is located in the Episcopal Palace which was built between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Formerly, this area was occupied by the old Muslim Alcazar, the official residence of the Caliph. When Christian troops conquered the city, this beautiful palace was built to house the headquarters of the Catholic Church in Cordoba. The Museum houses a wonderful collection of tapestries, paintings, sculptures dating from the Middle Ages. In the courtyard there is an elephant-shaped sculpture dating from Muslim times.

Madinat al-Zahra Museum

The Museum was opened in 2009 by Queen of Spain. Shortly after the inauguration, the Museum received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2010), one of the most prestigious in the Arab world. This amazing Museum houses pieces found in Madinat al-Zahra Palatine City (built by the Caliph Abderraman III in the tenth century). The magnificent collection of Islamic Art is one of the most complete in Europe. But the most precious piece of the entire Museum is, without doubt, the little bronze deer found in Madinat al-Zahra which is considered one of the most beautiful icons of Islamic Art during the Middle Ages. Experts consider that this small sculpture was part of a fountain with other fawns. For now, two more have been found: one of them is in the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid and the other one is exhibited in the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar. At the same time there is a special room where visitors can watch a magnificent documentary about Madinat al-Zahra that reproduces the city and talks about its glorious past. Highly recommended! Finally, the Museum is complemented by a great library, a cafeteria and a bookstore with hundreds of books about the archaeological site of Madinat al-Zahra.

For centuries, Cordoba has been the birthplace of great poets and writers that marked a before and after in Spanish Literature. Perhaps

the romanticism of the whitewashed streets, the flowers or the beauty of the Mosque-Cathedral have had some influence in all of

them. Lucano (39-65)

Lucano lived in an era in which Cordoba was an important city of the Roman Empire. When he was 21 years, Lucano received the

consideration of "poet laureate". Unfortunately, the Emperor Nero, who was also a poetry lover, was very jealous and decided to start a

campaign to discredit Lucano. But he did not resign himself and became a staunch critic of Nero. According to historians, Lucano

participated in the attempted assassination of the Emperor. As a result of this conspiracy he was sentenced to death. Shortly

after, Lucano decided to end his life rather than die cruelly. Ibn Zaydun (1003-1071)

He is considered as the greatest poet of Al-Andalus. His beautiful love letters written for Wallada, an Arab princess, are really romantic and

passionate. Unfortunately, he was accused of a crime and was sentenced to live in exile. Several years after, he was pardoned and allowed to return to Al-Andalus where he worked for the Caliph and

his ministers. Juan de Mena (1411 1456)

Unfortunately, Juan de Mena became an orphan when he was still a child. When he was 23 he went to Salamanca to complete his studies.

At that time the University of Salamanca was one of the most important in Europe. Shortly after, Juan de Mena became friend with

Cardinal Torquemada and went to live in Italy for a long period of time. Back in Spain, Juan de Mena combined positions of great

responsibility with the literary production: during this time, he wrote his most famous work, The Labyrinth of Fortune (1444).Finally he died in Torrelaguna (Madrid) in 1456 for reasons not yet clarified.

Luis de Gongora (1561-1627) He was one of the best poets of the Spanish Golden Age, a period of flourishing in arts and literature. Gongora was the son of a wealthy family, which allowed him to receive a good education in the best schools and universities. When he was a teenager, he moved to Salamanca where he studied in the University. A couple of years after, he graduated and became a canon. During many years his

literary production was prolific, gaining harsh detractors and staunch defenders. One of his best works was Solitudes (1613). Gongora

became very famous in Spain, to the point that King Felipe II appointed him Royal Chaplain. In

1627 Gongora went back to Cordoba where he lived in conditions of

extreme poverty. Finally he died of apoplexy few months later.

Ricardo Molina (1914-1968) studied at the University of Seville where he majored in History and Geography. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-

1939) Ricardo Molina interrupted his studies and enlisted in the army.After the war, Ricardo Molina (founder of

the literary magazine “Cantico”) worked as a teacher. At the same time, he combined his work with

his passion for Flamenco. To be more precise, Antonio Gala (1930) was not born in Cordoba

but in Ciudad Real. When he was a child his family moved to Cordoba where he wrote his first books. After graduating from University,

Antonio Gala lived in Portugal and Italy. Over the years, Antonio Gala has been awarded multiples times, reaping great success and

popularity in the whole country, especially in his adoptive hometown.

Address: Plaza de Maimonides

Prices: General 4€ / Friday Free Admission

Opening Hours: (10:00-14:00 & 16:30-18:30) Sundays (09:30-14:30)

Monday Closed

Address: Calle Torrijos 12

Prices: Free Admission

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday (09:30-13:30 & 15:30-17:30) /

July and August: 09:00-15:00 / Saturday afternoon and Sunday

closed

Prices: General 1,5€ / EU Citizens Free admission

Opening Hours: From 16th

September to 30th

April (10:00 – 18:30) /

From 1st

May to 15th

September (10:00-20:30)

Sunday and Bank Holidays (10:00-14:00)

Madinat al-Zahra

Ricardo Molina when visited Bodegas Campos Restaurant

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Poetic Cordoba

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 38

Hydraulic Museum & Interpretation Center of the Guadalquivir River

In the past, this nice building housed one of the mills of the city (Cordoba had eleven mills). Here the wheat was processed into flour by water power. In the sixteenth century were built three rooms that were used as fulling mill: the clothes were subjected to a process which involved the cleansing of cloth to eliminate oils, dirt etc. and making it thicker. Today, thanks to intensive improvement works, visitors can enjoy this interesting Museum. The different rooms show the multiple uses of water throughout history, from antiquity to the present, as well as the operation of hydraulic mills. At the top of the building, we can admire a panoramic view of the river and the Mosque. Do not forget to visit the ground floor; here the wheat was milled into flour. Later it was transported to the city where was sold.

Inquisition Museum

This Museum, located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, is dedicated entirely to the European Inquisition and especially to Spanish Inquisition. For those of you who may not know, the Spanish Inquisition was extremely cruel and one of the most powerful in Europe: the trials in many cases lacked of foundation and were often based on economic interests. During these trials inmates were subjected to horrible torture to extract “confessions”. The five rooms of the Museum exhibit all kinds of weapons, torture devices, information about judicial processes etc. A really unique experience you cannot miss.

Viana Palace Museum

If you visit Cordoba and you are interested in discovering the tradition of courtyards (patios), this is your place. Thanks to the initiative of the bank BBK-Caja Sur (owner of the building) visitors can discover the details and secrets behind these beautiful Andalusian patios. The Palace (fifteenth century) offers a guided tour through twelve interconnected courtyards and a beautiful garden (1200 square meters). The origin of this tradition dates back to Roman and Muslim times: the houses were built around a large courtyard where neighbors and families gathered to chat and get some fresh air. At the same time, many houses had their own well and a community bathroom for use by all residents. Some of the most beautiful courtyards are: Patio de los Gatos, Patio de las Rejas (one of the most luxurious), Patio de la Madama, Patio de las Columnas, Patio de la Cancela and Patio del Pozo.

Flamenco

Your visit to Spain will never be complete if you don’t let yourself be seduced by Flamenco, a musical style full of passion, fire and feeling. Some experts believe that the word Flamenco comes from an ancient language spoken in Andalusia between the ninth and the seventeenth century. This lost language was called "Andalusi" and had its roots in the Arabic language: according to this theory, Flamenco comes from the word "fellah min gueir ard" which was used to designate those peasants who had no land and lived in very poor conditions. This minority had real difficulties in integrating into society and lived with gypsies. Over the years, it is believed that the Flamenco genre emerged in small towns and agricultural villages of Andalusia during the eighteenth century. In November 2010 Flamenco was inscribed in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This is what UNESCO says about flamenco: “Flamenco is an artistic expression fusing song (“cante”), dance (“baile”) and musicianship (“toque”). Andalusia in southern Spain is the heartland of Flamenco, although it also has roots in regions such as Murcia and Extremadura. “Cante” is the vocal expression of flamenco, sung by men and women, preferably seated, with no backing singers. The gamut of feelings and states of mind – grief, joy, tragedy, rejoicing and fear – can be expressed through sincere, expressive lyrics characterized by brevity and simplicity. Flamenco “baile” is a dance of passion, courtship, expressing a wide range of situations ranging from sadness to joy. The technique is complex, differing depending on whether the performer is male (heavier use of the feet) or female (gentler, more sensual movements). “Toque” or the art of guitar playing has long surpassed its original role as accompaniment. Other instruments, including castanets, hand-clapping and foot-stamping are also employed. Flamenco is performed during religious festivals, rituals, church ceremonies and at private celebrations. It is the badge of identity of numerous communities and groups, in particular the Gitano (Roma) ethnic community, which has played an essential role in its development. Transmission occurs through dynasties, families, social groups and Flamenco clubs, all of which play a key role in its preservation and dissemination”. As a curious fact, Flamenco is hugely popular in Asia, especially in Japan where there are many Flamenco clubs and dance schools.

Flamenco Shows

As part of our itinerary, we would like to mention some of the best places in Cordoba to enjoy a Flamenco evening. Probably, the two most popular shows frequented by tourists are Flamenco Show El Cardenal and Meson de la Buleria:

Flamenco Show El Cardenal Address: Calle Torrijos 10 Sunday closed Price: From 20 € (drink included) Approximate Duration: One hour and a half This Flamenco Club was built in a beautiful sixteenth century building, which is located just meters away from the Mosque.

Address: Paseo de la Ribera s/n Prices: General 2€/ Reduced 1.30€ Opening Hours: 09:30-14:00 Guided Tours from 09:45

CORDOBA

Address: Calle Manriquez 1 Prices: 3€ / Children under 10 Free Admission Opening Hours: Open every day from 11:00 to 20:30

Address: Plaza de Don Gomez, 2 Prices: Guided Tour 8€ / Only Courtyards 5€ Opening Hours: From 1

st July to 31

st (09:00-15:00) / From 1

st

Sept to 30 Jun (10:00-19:00) Saturday & Sunday (10:00-15:00) Monday Closed

Tablao Flamenco

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 39

El Cardenal offers a unique experience thanks to the contribution of great Flamenco artists, recognized nationally and internationally. At the same time, the show brings together the most popular styles of Flamenco (Solea, Bulerias, Alegrías or Fandangos). During the summer, they use the wonderful courtyards for performances. Without doubt, it is a highly recommended visit.

Flamenco Show Meson de la Buleria Address: Calle Pedro Lopez 3 Price: From 15€ (drinks included) / 40€ (show & dinner) Approximate Duration: One hour Popular Flamenco show located near the beautiful Corredera Square, very close to downtown. Each evening tourists can enjoy live performances accompanied by food and drink. This elegant building, designed in Andalusian traditional style, belonged to a popular Spanish bullfighter, called Guerrita. The facility has capacity for hundred people so it is ideal for large groups. Perhaps the negative note is that the Restaurant is usually crowded with tour groups, losing the essence of Flamenco.

Flamenco Show Arte y Sabores de Cordoba Address: Calle Velázquez Bosco, 10 Price: 30€ (dinner and show) Approximate Duration: One hour In the heart of the Jewish Quarter, just few minutes walking from the Mosque, we can find this great Flamenco show. Dinner is composed of tasty rice prepared in traditional style “arroz campero”. At the same time, we can enjoy Montilla-Moriles wine which is produced in the province of Cordoba and has been awarded worldwide. After the dinner, an elegant and pure Flamenco show starred by local young artists begins.

La Pataita de Antonio Tablao Address: Calle Barroso 3 Price: 18€ (drinks included) This small Flamenco Tavern was recently inaugurated on Barroso Street. The tavern has a whitewashed Andalusian courtyard where performances take place. Its location between the old town and Tendillas Square is simply perfect for tourists. At the same time, La Pataita de Antonio is an ideal place to enjoy excellent tapas and locally produced wine.

If you want to enjoy a pure Flamenco Show with all the passion of Andalusia, we recommend visiting clubs and Flamenco bars (“peñas”), places full of tradition. The performances are in many cases spontaneous and do not follow

a schedule so we cannot tell you for sure when and at what time will be the shows. Ask your receptionist to call to be sure.

Tavern Casa Salinas (Address: Puerta de Almodovar s / n ) Some days a week spontaneous Flamenco shows are staged here. The bar offers traditional and really delicious dishes.

Tavern Las Beatillas (Address: Plaza de las Beatilla 1) Occasionally Flamenco shows are performed by amateur singers who come to this tavern to enjoy a pleasant evening. Nice home-made food: they specialize in game meat although you can also taste different varieties of fish such as the popular Fritura (variety of fried fish) and Japuta (fried marinated fish).

Finally, we cannot forget that every three years Cordoba becomes the world capital of Flamenco thanks to the National Flamenco Art Contest, which is one of the most prestigious in Spain.

Flamenco Dress Flamenco dress in Andalusia means a combination of tradition and innovation. At the same time, we can say that Flamenco dress is the most characteristic visual element of Flamenco. To find the origins of the Flamenco outfit we have to go back to Seville in the nineteenth century: The Cattle Fair in Seville, the biggest one in Andalusia, brought together thousands of people, gypsy and non-gypsy, rich and poor. They all danced, drank and celebrated with uproar. The wives of cattle dealers (gypsy many of them) wore comfortable, colorful and frilly dresses that embellished the woman and made her sexier. Gradually, the wives of wealthy merchants felt seduced by these beautiful dresses worn by gypsy woman and began to adapt them to the fashion of the nineteenth century. Over the years, the Cattle Fair lost its commercial side and became the current Seville April Fair.

CORDOBA

We go deeper into the knowledge of Flamenco Culture.

The Spanish guitar, which was introduced in Spain by the Arabs in the

middle Ages, is a basic instrument for the Flamenco Music. Without

this guitar nothing would be the same and probably Flamenco

wouldn’t exist.

From a musical point of view, its sound is unmistakable (brighter

sound) and its execution is easier and faster. In addition, craftsmen

use different kind of woods in comparison with classical guitars,

which also helps to create that unique sound.

Another feature of these guitars is the pickguard against scratches as

in Flamenco beating the wood fraction as percussion is very common.

Traditionally, Cordoba has been an important center of production of

these Guitars: the city is full of craft workshops (“guitarrerías”)

where these guitars are made, using old techniques like in the in the

eighteenth century. Undoubtedly, it is really interesting to see how

they work. Some of these “guitarrerias” are located in downtown:

• Juan Montero (Address: Calle Goya, 23)

• Hermanos Peña Guitarreros (Address: Plaza del Potro 15)

• Jose Rodriguez Peña (Address: Calle San Pablo, 10)

• Manuel Reyes Maldonado (Address: Calle Armas, 4).

The Spanish Guitar

CORDOBA

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 40

Slowly, gypsy dress were evolving and transforming until today. Parallel to this evolution, gypsy clothes were spread throughout Andalusia and became the unofficial dress of the regional fairs. Many tourists, after admiring the beautiful dresses worn by female Flamenco dancers, decide to buy one and take it home as a souvenir. In Mundo Guides we would like to recommend you some of the most popular shops in Cordoba where you will find everything you are looking for: from classic designs to modern ones as well as accessories, fans, ornamental combs…

• Complementos Abril (address: Calle Jesús María 14 & Calle Conde

de Gondomar 5).

• Rosario Roman (address: Garcia Lovera s/n).

De Colores (address: Calle Jesus Maria).

Flavors of Cordoba Spanish cuisine is considered as one of the best in the world. Chefs such as Ferran Adria, Jose Andres and Juan Maria Arzak set trends and are well known worldwide. Spanish cuisine can be classified as Mediterranean Gastronomy, which is extremely healthy: it helps regulate cholesterol levels and is a major factor in the high life expectancy enjoyed by Spain (more than eighty years). In Andalusia, typical dishes, ingredients, flavors, and cookery styles have inherited elements from all the cultures (Romans, Jews, Arabs and Christians) that have left their mark on the history of the region. Andalusian cuisine is based mainly on vegetables, fresh fish and fruit. The main reason is the weather: due to heat and high temperatures people need to replenish water and minerals so they eat lots of fruit and vegetables. In addition, Spain, together with Portugal, is one of the largest consumers of fish in the world, more than forty kilos of fish per person per year and Andalusia is no exception to the rule. The variety of fish is enormous and endless: japutas, dorada, rosada, camarones, pez espada, atún, salmón, trucha etc. Without any doubt, the most typical dish of Cordoba cuisine is “Salmorejo”, which is a cold tomato cream, ideal for vegetarians. This cold soup can be accompanied by ham, eggs or green pepper. The ingredients to cook an authentic “salmorejo” are:

Tomatoes

Bread • Garlic • Salt • Cumin • Extra Virgin Olive oil

Other representative dishes of Cordoba are: “Rabo de Toro” (Oxtail stew): It is very appreciated for its taste and creamy meat. In recent years, this dish is becoming very popular among top chefs in Madrid and Seville. Flamenquín: This is a must-try dish, really tasty, easy to find and cheap. Flamenquín consists of pork rolled and stuffed with ham. Almost any bar or restaurant in Cordoba offer this popular dish.

“Tortilla de Patatas” (Spanish Omelet) It´s maybe one of the most popular dishes in Spain and is characterized by its softness and texture. The ingredients to cook a genuine Spanish Omelet are: eggs and potatoes fried in olive oil (onions and peppers can be added too). Chronicles say that this dish was born in Navarre (North Spain) in the nineteenth century: during the Carlist Wars (1833 to 1876), the last major civil war for the throne in Europe, General Tomas Zumalacárregui created the "tortilla" as an easy, fast and nutritious dish to feed the Carlist Army. From there it was spread throughout the country. If you have decided to try this wonderful dish, we recommend you one of the most popular places in Cordoba, Bar Santos (address: Calle Magistal Frances Gonzalez, 3).

“Jamon Serrano” (Spanish Ham) Travelling to Spain and not to try Spanish Ham can be considered as a cardinal sin. The hind legs of pork are cured for months in special places with certain lighting conditions and optimum moisture. The result, after this long process, is extremely tasty and juicy meat which is highly appreciated by Spanish people and foreigners. Despite its high price, it is very popular in Spain, especially at Christmas when even some companies give away a Spanish Ham to their employees. The Roll Royce of hams can be quickly identified by its intense red meat and flecks of intramuscular fat which is oleic acid. This great meat is result of feeding pigs naturally. If you want to try one of these hams, they are known as “Jamon de Bellota”. Montilla-Moriles Wine In the south of the province of Cordoba is produced an excellent wine commercialized under the name Montilla-Moriles. The conditions of soil, low rainfall and large number of hours of bright sunshine, over 300 days a year, favour the cultivation of vines. These wines are characterized by high alcohol content (about 15-20 degrees. Obviously, it is not necessary to add alcohol artificially as it is in other Spanish regions), high sugar content due to extreme weather conditions (cold winters and sweltering summers) and an intense aroma. We strongly recommend trying Pedro Ximenez which is a delicious natural sweet wine. Perez Barquero Winery (Montilla) offers a fantastic tour full of interesting facts, wine tasting etc. More Information: http://www.perezbarquero.com/

“Caracoles” Snails With the advent of the first rays of spring sunshine the city is full of small food stalls where tasty snails are cooked. At end of the day, thousands of “cordobeses” come to enjoy this local

CORDOBA

Complementos Abril Shop

Gastronomy

Spanish Omelete (Bar Santos)

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 41

specialty after work. The snails are served in small glasses with hot sauce and accompanied by a good cold beer. Generally, these food stalls have a terrace where customers can sit.

Confectionery The Arab heritage is quite evident in the Andalusian confectionery: pastries with almond, honey, "alfajores" or cinnamon are very popular among “cordobeses”. “Pastel Cordobes” (Cordoba Cake): It´s undoubtedly the most popular cake in town. Main ingredients: puff pastry sheet, "cabello de de angel" (pumpkin marmalade) sugar and cinnamon. “Manolete”: Similar to Cordoba Cake but smaller. If you want to try one of these delicious and traditional pastries we recommend visiting Roldan Bakery (address: intersection between Gondomar Street and Paseo de la Victoria) and Salazar Patisserie (address: Ronda de los Tejares Avenue 3).

Drinks Water Usually people drink tap water in Cordoba. Its taste is not as bad as in other Spanish cities, especially in coastal towns. Anyway if you don’t want to risk we offer you a small selection of mineral water brands:

• Lanjaron

• Solan de Cabras

• Fuente Liviana

If you like sparkling water you will need to be patient. Normally people do not drink sparkling water in Spain and it is sometimes difficult to buy or order it in restaurants.

Beer Due to high temperatures and the proliferation of bars and terraces, much beer is consumed in Cordoba. Although Spain is a major producer and consumer of wine, Spanish people feel true devotion to beer. The bars compete to serve the best beer and the waiters carefully polish their technique. In fact there are real experts who study the inclination of the cup when pouring, foam density, temperature, etc. Spanish beers have a higher graduation and their flavor is more intense than German or Belgian beers. This is the reason why in Spain the beer is consumed in small glasses “cañas” or often accompanied by a snack. Some of the most famous beer brands in Andalusia are Cruzcampo, Aguila and Alhambra. How to order a beer? Order a beer in Spain can be a bit tricky since there are different sizes and commercial brands. The most common ways to order a beer are:

• Caña: draft beer served in a small glass 20 cl.

• Tubo: draft beer served in a 33 cl. glass.

• Botellín: beer bottle 25 cl.

•Jarra: draft beer in a 50 cl. glass Tinto de Verano It is a drink made with soda, red wine and ice that is very popular during summer months when people have to handle high suffocating temperatures in the city. Practically you can order “tinto de verano” in any bar or restaurant.

Sangría Popular beverage consumed in Spain and Portugal for several centuries. Ingredients:

• Red wine • Sugar syrup • Orange juice and lemon juice • Chopped fruit (peach, apple, pear ...) • Cinnamon • Orange soda • Vermouth and brandy spirits.

In the twentieth century Spanish emigrants took the beverage to Argentina and others parts of South America where it became very popular too.

Andalusian Breakfast

Buffet breakfasts are always a good option for those who stay in a Hotel. However, we recommend you try an authentic Andalusian breakfast to enrich your stay in this fantastic city. A typical Andalusian breakfast consists of a "mollete" (typical Andalusian bun), olive oil, tomato paste and small slices of Spanish ham. Local people usually accompanies this healthy breakfast with a “caffé latte” (café con leche) or an orange juice (zumo de naranja).

CORDOBA

The first documented references about olive trees were found in Syria

and Iran, which were two of the most advanced civilizations 6000 years ago.

From this area of Middle East, the Olive cultivation spread throughout the Mediterranean (Greece, Egypt, Italy, Croatia ...).

Phoenician civilization brought the olive tree to Andalusia. The Romans contributed greatly to the expansion and development of the olive tree. Romans felt devotion by the olive tree to the point that

the nobles wore crowns made of olive branches. During Al-Andalus, the extraction methods were modernized and

production grew enormously. In the fifteenth century the olive tree cultivation consolidated and developed in large areas of Andalusia (Jaen, Cordoba and Seville).

Currently, Andalusia is the largest producer of olive oil in the world. But don´t think that the olive tree only provides oil, quite the contrary. The Andalusian people have learned to optimize the use of this incredible

tree: Olive oil is used to manufacture beauty products. The fruit is eaten after

being marinated and seasoned in many different ways. The leaves are used as food for sheep. The wood is used in houses to heat during the

harsh winter months and to make quality furniture and handicrafts. Finally, olive pits and skin are used, after a complex process, as fuel to

produce energy. Relevant Information & Curious Facts:

Jaen (108 km from Cordoba) produces the highest amount of Olive Oil in the World. Andalusian Olive Oil is considered by experts as the best in

the World. Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a better quality and is more pure. It is advisable to consume at room temperature, though is fine for light

cooking too. Andalusian Olive Oil represents about 40% of olive oil sold in China. The olive oil brand "El Castillo de Canena" is used in the Burj al

Arab Hotel (Dubai), the most luxurious hotel in the world. Exports of Andalusian Olive Oil to the United States of America have

grown exponentially in the last 5 years.

Olive & Olive Oil

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 42

Tapas

“Tapa” in Spanish means "small portion of food served with the drink”. This custom was born in Andalusia in the nineteenth century and today has become a social event in Spain. Friends, coworkers or family members gather for a snack in packed bars right before lunch or dinner. “Tapas” can range from olives or chips to small tasting dishes that blend tradition with modernity. Some bars offer free tapas when you order a drink although this is not very common in Cordoba, unlike other Spanish cities… The list can be endless and depends on the imagination and creativity of the bar or restaurant. The most common “tapas” are:

• Lacon (Cured pork)

• Croquettes

• Morcilla (Blood sausage)

• Manchego Cheese

• Ham

• Olives

• Patatas bravas (Potatoes in spicy tomato sauce)

• Prawns

• Salmorejo

• Fried Eggplants with honey

• Spanish Omelet

• Almonds

• Russian Salad

• Squids Fried in Butter

• Anchovy

• Chorizo (Highly-seasoned pork sausage)

• “Pinchitos” (Marinade Pork)

Tapas Bar

Bar Círculo Taurino Address: Calle Manuel María Arcona, 1 Very popular tavern which is frequented by bullfighting fans. Andalusian wine, beer, olives and hunks of cheese, among other “tapas” comprise the variety of dishes in this pleasant “tapas” bar. The tavern is small, cramped, and full of bullfighting memorabilia from the floor to the ceiling.

Casa Rubio Address: Puerta de Almódovar 5 Open the door and immerse yourself in this traditional “tapas” bar. Rooms are partially covered with Andalusian tiles, creating a special atmosphere. Don´t miss the leafy inner courtyard with iron tables which is simply charming.

Sociedad Plateros Address: Calle San Francisco 6 Sociedad Plateros is one of the oldest taverns in Cordoba (1872). This area of the city was once the neighborhood where the silversmiths lived and worked. This tavern was founded by the craftsmen to help with its income to the silversmiths who had to shut down their business. Traditional “tapas” served in a unique atmosphere full of history.

El Juramento Address: Calle Juramento 6 El Juramento Tapas Bar, located near Corredera Square, has an excellent reputation built on 100 years of serving great food and excellent wine. In short, it´s a highly recommended place to sample the local gastronomy.

Taberna Casa Salinas Address: Puerto de Almodóvar s/n This is another bar with a unique atmosphere in Cordoba: glasses of sherry and plates of freshly made “tapas” as well as spicy Andalusian sausages hung from the ceiling and buckets of olives. In fair weather we can enjoy a romantic Andalusian courtyard. Occasionally spontaneous Flamenco shows are staged here.

La Copla Address: Calle Infanta Maria Taurine Tavern where you can enjoy excellent local wine and homemade “tapas”. The atmosphere is friendly and familiar. The “taurine” decoration is quite nice. Without a doubt, it´s a very unique place in Cordoba. Casa Andres Address: Avenida de Cervantes 4 You cannot leave Cordoba without tasting its excellent “potaje” (vegetable and cod stew). This dish is very popular during Good Friday when Christians honor the death of Jesus and do not eat meat. Free “Tapas” with every beer. Casa Malacara Address: Puerta de Almodovar Nice typical tavern specialized in delicious “tapas”. We highly recommend you try “pollo malacara” (malacara-style chicken) or the Spanish omelet. In summer you can have a drink on the terrace. Pleasant atmosphere, friendly service and fair price! El Aguacero Address: Plaza de San Miguel Delicious homemade cuisine represented by typical dishes such as “patatas a lo pobre” (French fries accompanied by meat, sausages and fried eggs), “salmorejo” (cold tomato cream) or “Rabo de toro” (oxtail stew). The service is very attentive and friendly. You will have a great memory of Cordoba by visiting this “tapas” bar. El Blason Address: Jose Zorrilla 11 El Blason, located behind the Gran Teatro (Gran Theatre), is one of the most popular in Cordoba. Its cuisine boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition with excellent results. Upstairs there is a restaurant and the ground floor has been designed as “tapas” bar.

CORDOBA

Casa Malacarra

Tapas

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 43

The only downside is the price, a little bit higher than others “tapas” bars in the area. Bar Santos Address: Calle Magistal Gonzalez Frances 3 Tiny bar located in front of the Mosque. Since its inauguration in 1966, this bar is famous by great and huge Spanish omelets (they can weigh more than 4 kilos/9 pounds). In addition to Spanish Omelets you can taste other typical dishes as “salmorejo” or oxtail. Salmorejeria Umami Address: Calle Blanco Belmonte 6 Umami is a wonderful place to enjoy one of the most typical dishes in Cordoba, “salmorejo”. Here you can taste countless “salmorejos” made of different ingredients: mushrooms, avocado, wasabi, sweet salmorejo etc. (30 different types). Umami is a huge advocate of organic products. The best evidence of this is its own Menu: the client can even choose what type of ecological tomatoes wants for his salad. In short, excellent service and gourmet dishes.

Restaurants Cordoba is a city with an excellent gastronomy which has great Arabic influence. Muslim presence in the Iberian Peninsula lasted more than 700 years (711-1492) leaving an indelible mark on the language, clothing, customs, cuisine etc. The most traditional dishes are Oxtail, Salmorejo and Flamenquín, so it won´t be difficult to find a place where to taste these delicacies of Cordoba cuisine. When choosing a restaurant we recommend following a basic rule: choose restaurants where there are many Spanish clients, especially in old town. This will ensure good prices and good food.

Opening Hours

Traditionally in Spain lunch and dinner are really very late compared to other European countries: Spanish families tend to have lunch between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm and dinner is served from 09:30 pm to 10:30 pm. About 1:00 pm “Cordobeses” crowd the bars, eating traditional "tapas" before lunch and drinking local wines. At the end of the afternoon is also an ideal time to enjoy "tapas" between 07:30 pm and 9:00 pm. Usually restaurants begin to serve lunch approximately from 1:00 pm-1:30 pm and dinners from 08:30 pm- 9:00 pm. If you want to eat before this time, you always have the option of eating in fast food restaurants or others well-known restaurant franchises.

Prices Before entering, you can check the price level of the restaurant and avoid embarrassing situations when paying. Restaurants are forced to place boards where you can check the menu. Take a look! “Menu del Dia” is a great option to save some money on your trip to Spain. For a fixed price (approximately 9€-12€) some restaurants offer first and second dish, drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Ask the waiter if they have “Menu del día”. Almost all the restaurants in old town accept credit cards: VISA, MasterCard and American Express are the most common.

Reserve Normally there is no need to book a table in advance. But on weekends the city is full of tourists and can be a bit tricky to find a

table in your restaurant. A call few hours before is enough. The Hotel Receptionist can make the reservation without problem while you are visiting the city.

Etiquette Generally there is no dress code, especially in old town. Restaurants are accustomed to tourists and their casual clothes.

Taxes & Tips

Check the bill: VAT is 10% and it must be included in the price marked on the menu and clearly shown on the bill. Tips are not mandatory. Generally people do not leave tips in Spain. If you are happy with the service, 5%-10% will be well received by the waiter.

Restaurante Casa Rubio €€ Address: Puerta Almodovar, 5 Restaurant Casa Rubio offers enviable views of the old city wall. On the ground floor there is a bar, which is great to take some economic Andalusian “tapas”. On the upper floors we find the restaurant: here atmosphere is much more classical and dishes are more elaborated. Chefs offer a delicious and surprising combination of Sephardic (old Spanish Jews) and Andalusian cuisine.

Restaurante Bodegas Campos €€€ Address: Calle Los Lineros, 32 This restaurant is a gastronomic symbol in the city and is famous for being frequented by actors, writers, politicians and other celebrities. You will enjoy modern Andalusian cuisine with perfectly prepared dishes and using highest quality ingredients. Some gastronomic experts describe its cuisine as natural and authentic.

El Bandolero €€ Address: Calle Torrijos 6 El Bandolero Restaurant, located only few meters from the Mosque, allows us to enjoy a very unique view, really romantic. Specialties include: cod salad with orange or steak stuffed with ham and asparagus. The entire Menu is based on the culinary tradition of Romans, Arabs, Jews and Christians but always keeping in mind that innovation is essential.

Restaurante Choco €€ Address: Calle Compositor Serrano Lucena The humble Fuensanta neighborhood hides one of the most interesting modern restaurants in Cordoba (recently awarded a Michelin Star). Owned by the Garcia family, the young Chef Kisko performs innovative cuisine that blends traditional and modern flavors. The restaurant offers both a seasonal menu and a tasting menu.

Restaurante Casa Pepe La Juderia €€ Adress: Calle Romero 1 You can taste the most typical dishes of Cordoba cuisine and simultaneously, have a great time in the magnificent restaurant courtyard. Do not leave this wonderful restaurant without tasting the mouthwatering eggplant fingers with molasses, which is an Arabic-inspired dish.

Salmorejeria Umami

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Restaurant Price Key

High Class €€€ (Over 30€)

Mid-Budget €€ (20-30€)

Low Price € (Less than 20€)

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 44

Specialties: Carpaccio sturgeon with ice-cold gazpacho, Sephardic Lamb.

Restaurante El Blason €€ Address: Calle Jose Zorrilla 11 Meat dishes stand out above all others in this restaurant: original game meat recipes such as partridge and raspberry salad or high quality pork and beef coming from Pedroches, an excellent livestock area located in the North of the province of Cordoba. The menu also includes traditional dishes prepared with care and following the original cookbook: salmorejo cream or oxtail. Booking is advisable.

Restaurante El Caballo Rojo €€€ Address: Calle Cardenal Herrero 28 Famous restaurant frequented by artists, athletes and politicians and considered as one of the best in town. This restaurant has the privilege of being located just in front of the Mosque of Cordoba, which ensures a special atmosphere. The cuisine blends traditional food with innovation. Specialties: Lamb with honey, salad Sephardic Oxtail.

Taberna San Miguel Casa El Pisto €€ Address: Calle Plaza de San Miguel 1 This tavern has been located in the heart of the city (near Tendillas Square) more than hundred years. “Cordobeses” know very well this place and have placed it in a significant position on the current gastronomic scene. Leaving Cordoba without tasting Salmorejo here can be a big mistake! Interior decoration will amaze you: full of old Andalusian pictures, traditional hats, Flamenco posters etc. Specialties: Salmorejo and Orange with cod.

Restaurante El Churrasco €€€ Address: Calle Romero 16 Wonderful restaurant located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, a neighborhood full of history and legends. Its cuisine has always been distinguished for its seasonal ingredients, which are always fresh and top quality: meat, seafood and vegetables. Olive oil is an key factor in this restaurant too. They offer a menu of olive oils from various parts of Andalusia. Recently, the owners have opened a small boutique hotel near the Restaurant.

Cafetin Halal Islamic Culture Center € Address: Calle Rey Heredia 28 If you are Muslim or you're just a fan of Arabic food, this restaurant is a great option. Enjoy traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients at a reasonable price. Great location and friendly service.

Restaurant Hammam €€ Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 51 Do you want to enjoy a true old Arab restaurant and feel the magic

of Al-Andalus? If the answer is yes, this is your restaurant: here you can enjoy an excellent fusion of Spanish and Muslim cuisine with magnificent results that will satisfy the most demanding palates. The decor takes us back to the tenth century: beautiful walls, chandeliers and old Andalusian music. Specialties: lamb couscous, fish tagine. If you have time, enjoy the hammam (Arab bath) on the ground floor! Restaurante La Viuda €€ Address: Calle San Basilio 52 La Viuda is, without a doubt, one of the most recommended restaurants in the old town: haute cuisine fused with traditional flavors, always using fresh products from Andalusia. Specialties: eggplant fingers with honey, scrambled eggs with cod, flamenquines with homemade cheese. Another point to note is the magnificent interior decoration. Restaurante San Basilio €€ Address: Calle San Basilio 19 The restaurant is located just five minutes walking from the Mosque. Therefore it is an ideal place to eat after a long day of sightseeing. San Basilio Restaurant has a great and typical Andalusian courtyard that will make you feel the true atmosphere of old Arab houses. All the products come from the province of Cordoba. Dishes are carefully prepared by expert hands. Service is friendly, clean and fast. We recommend you take a glass of Moriles Montilla wine, excellent wine produced in Cordoba.

International Restaurants

Italian Restaurants

Restaurant Taglatella €€ Address: Calle Jesus y Maria 6 Italian Restaurant located in the center of Cordoba, just 100 meters from Tendillas Square. The restaurant boasts traditional Italian cuisine: pastas, risottos, pizzas, lasagna, gnocchi etc. The decor is a bit baroque. Red burgundy is the dominant color which creates an unparalleled atmosphere. Service is also very good and fast.

O Mamma Mia € Address: Calle Reyes Catolicos 5

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La Viuda Restaurant

San Miguel Casa El Pisto

Taglatella Restaurant

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La Bambola € Address: Shopping Mall El Tablero

Amore Bonapasta € Address: Calle Reyes Catolicos 17 Pizzaiolo € Address: Calle San Felipe 5

Oh La Pizzeria €

Address: Calle de Concepcion 8

Asian Restaurants

Sakura €€ Address: Calle Reyes Catolicos 20 Sakura Wok €€ Address: Avenida Andalucia 7 Tokyo €€ Address: Calle Manuel Cuellar

Indian Restaurants

Handi Rotti €€ Address: Shopping Mall El Zoco Not far from downtown you will find the best Indian Restaurant in Cordoba, a cuisine that is currently in vogue worldwide. The restaurant offers a great variety of dishes with different Indian sauces. Curiously, they also prepare Chinese food with an Indian touch. If you come with children do not worry, the restaurant has a kids menu.

Taj Mahal €€ Address: Calle Azorin 4

Fast Food Restaurants

American Foster Hollywood € Address: Calle Rafael de la Hoz Arderius 4

Burger King € Address: Calle Concepcion 12 Address: Calle Cardenal Herrero 12

McDonalds € Address: Avd del Brillante s/n Address: Shopping Mall El Arcangel

Domino´s Pizza € Address: Plaza Colon 29

Brutus Cordoba € Address: Entertainment Centre El Tablero

Cerveceria Cien Montaditos € Address: Plz San Miguel 3 Address: Avd Gran Capitan 29

Chefbuffet € Address: Calle Cardenal Gonzalez 63

ordoba is a city with a large selection of hotels: from incredible rooms in old palaces around the Jewish Quarter to modern design hotels in downtown.

In Mundo Guides will try to give you a helping hand in finding the best accommodation to fit your needs.

Symbol Key

Hotel Price Key

These prices are approximate and off season. During high season, prices s. Better book early.

High Class €€€

Hospes Palacio del Bailio Address: Calle Ramírez de las Casas Deza, 10-12 This hotel is located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, surrounded by small traditional whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. All the services of a 5 Star Hotel at your disposal: great facilities, pool, spa, beautiful gardens, bellboy, valet etc. One of the main attractions for guests is the beautiful Spanish-Arabic decoration. In short, this Hotel is a perfect place to relax and make a journey back to the past.

AC Cordoba Palacio Hotel by Marriott Address: Paseo de la Victoria, s / n This magnificent hotel is situated on Victoria Avenue, just 10 minutes’ walk from the Mosque, and belongs to Marriott (the North American Company has two Hotels in Cordoba) which is a guarantee of satisfaction: excellent service and the best facilities in the city. Enjoy the lovely and wonderful swimming pool on the flat roof, the

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Where to Stay

€€€ High Class: Over 200€

€€ Mid-Budget: from 50€ to 100€

€ Low Price: Less tan 50€

Cordoba www.mundo-guides.com Page 46

views are breathtaking. The building's design created a great debate and polemic in the city: its striking appearance did not please everyone in the same way. Despite everything, recently the building has received an award as the second Europe's most modern hotel and the sixth most modern in the world. Without doubt a matter of controversy!

Mid-Budget €€

Hotel Cordoba Center Address: Avd de la Libertad 4 Cordoba Center Hotel is located in the trendiest area of Cordoba. This wide Avenue was built about 10 years ago and has become one of the most exclusive and expensive parts of the city: the area is full of business hotels, cafes, bars, cocktail lounges and restaurants. The hotel is 30 minutes away from the Old Town and barely 5 minutes’ walk from the new Railway Station. Modern design and wonderful facilities: On the 7

th floor there is a

swimming pool which offers amazing views of the city. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and with natural light. Take a look at the façade! At night the façade illumination is changing from one color to another, creating a beautiful visual effect.

AC Cordoba Hotel by Marriott Address: Avd de la Libertad 24 AC Cordoba is the second Hotel run by Marriott in Cordoba. The Hotel is situated opposite the Train Station and 30 minutes by feet from the Old Town. It is the best option if you have to travel by train the next day early in the morning. The Hotel offers an ultramodern style, super quality and full comfort for guests.

Hotel Conquistador Address: Calle Magistral González Francés, 15-17 This is possibly the best location in Cordoba, just opposite the Great Mosque, one of the icons of the city. If you decide to stay here the atmosphere will take you back several centuries to Al-Andalus times, when Muslims controlled much of Spain. The hotel boasts a traditional Andalusian style with lovely patios, fountains and flowers, which invade every corner with fragrance and colors. The beautiful courtyard is used by clients to have a drink or chat quietly after a long day visiting the Old Town. Rooms are comfortable and functional. No frills.

NH Amistad Cordoba Address: Plaza de Maimonides 3 This hotel is located in an eighteenth century house in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, just a few minutes stroll to the Mosque. Hotel design is classic and elegant: nice patios, stone walls, tiled floors etc.

Rooms are spacious and comfortably equipped. In addition, they are designed with a contemporary concept suitable for the most demanding guests. Upstairs there is a small pool to refresh after a hot day visiting the city.

Eurostars Maimonides

Address: Calle Torrijos 4 Elegant hotel located in front of the Mosque. In fact the rooms have unique views of this Arab monument which was built in the eighth century. The hotel is decorated in a traditional Andalusian way: we would like to mention the beautiful courtyard where guests can enjoy a nice dinner listening to the sound of water from the romantic and relaxing fountain. The Congress Palace and the Roman Bridge are only few minutes away walking.

Hesperia Cordoba Address: Calle Fray Albino 1 From this hotel you can enjoy one of the best views of Cordoba skyline. Hesperia Hotel is located on the other side of the river allowing us to enjoy incredible views of the Mosque, the Roman Bridge and the Fortress of Christian Kings. Plus, the Guadalquivir River also has something to show and surprises us with its rich flora and fauna: this part of the river was declared Natural Monument by the Andalusian Government. The hotel has modern and magnificent facilities. In fact, this great hotel is frequented by soccer teams and other athletes when they visit Cordoba. On a sunny day you can take a swim in the pool on the top floor of the building!

Hacienda Posada de Vallina Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda, 83 Old Andalusian house converted into a luxurious hotel which still retains many original features of the building: stone walls, wooden ceiling beams, original arches etc. Its location cannot be better, just in front of the Mosque. Rooms are spacious and very comfortable. This building has been used as a hotel since the Middle Ages. Its location, near a major thoroughfare and very close from the Fortress of the Christian Kings (Alcazar), allows us to say that it was one of the most important hotels in Spain. Influential people, ambassadors, wealthy bankers or businessmen were among its guests: historians believe that Christopher Columbus was stayed here where today is the room 205.

Arab Baths Hostel Address: Calle Almanzor 18 Small cozy hotel with seven rooms located in the Jewish Quarter, just several minutes on foot from the Mosque. The hotel has a traditional Muslim-Spanish décor which will take us back to the 10

th century when the Muslim civilization controlled the

Iberian Peninsula. The real amazing point about this hotel is the magnificent Arab Baths (free for guests). Here you can enjoy different pools (cold, warm, hot), Turkish bath, solarium, massages and body treatments.

Hotel Boston Address: Calle Malaga 2 Classic hotel located on the most popular square of Cordoba, Las Tendillas, which is an ideal place for shopping. Near Tendillas Square there are plenty of shopping streets, boutiques, restaurants, fashionable cafes, El Corte Ingles Department Store etc. The hotel was recently renovated and equipped with all comfort. Rooms are bright and spacious.

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If you decide to visit the old part of town you will only have to walk 10 minutes.

Ayre Hotel Cordoba Address: Calle Poeta Alonso Bonilla, 3 The hotel is located 20-25 minutes’ drive from the city center, right at the foot of Sierra Morena Mountains. This great hotel, surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains, offers incomparable panoramic views of Cordoba. The hotel facilities are modern, luxurious and well equipped (solarium, tennis court, outdoor pool etc.). Rooms are spacious, bright and stylishly furnished. Guests can have lunch on the terrace or in the garden. If you prefer, take a swim in the pool!

Low Price

Hotel NH Califa Address: Calle Lope de Hoces 14 Small hotel belonging to NH Hotel Chain and located near the entrance of the Old Town. This area of Cordoba, very popular in the city, is plenty of shops, cafes and bars. To reach the Mosque you will only need 10 minutes on foot, making this hotel an ideal place for a cultural visit to the Old Town. Rooms are spacious with natural light and well equipped. If you need to catch a train, the Railway Station is just 800 meters.

Hotel Serrano Address: Calle Benito Perez Galdos 6 The hotel is located in one of the most important commercial areas of Cordoba. Near America Avenue guests will find numerous cafes, ice cream shops, restaurants, gourmet shops, etc. Rooms are large and simply decorated to make you feel like home. The Train Station is 5 minutes’ walk. The Old Town is just 15-20 minutes’ walk.

Hostal Fonda La Corredera Address: Calle Rodriguez Marin 23 This nice hotel is located on Corredera Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Cordoba. Hostal Fonda La Corredera is decorated in a traditional Andalusian style: white walls, wooden windows etc. Hotel rooms have lots of natural light thanks to large windows. The restaurant serves homemade food at a good price. One of the main attractions of the hotel is its terrace where we can have a drink and enjoy wonderful views across the Old Town.

Cordoba Osio Hostel Address: Calle Osio 6 Cordoba Osio Hostel is a small traditional Andalusian hostel in the historic center of Cordoba, only five minutes’ walk from the Mosque. The hotel has a beautiful Andalusian courtyard which is really lovely.

Hostal Alcazar Address: Calle San Basilio 2 Family owned small hostel with apartments situated in the heart of Old Town, just in front of the Fortress of the Christian Kings and few minutes by foot from the Mosque. All rooms have TV and separate bathrooms. The apartments are spacious and have separate bedrooms and a living room. Friendly and very helpful service at reasonable prices.

Hotel Don Paula Address: Plaza Pineda 2 Don Paula Hotel has modest but elegant facilities. In addition, the hotel offers mini bar with soft drinks free of charge for guests. Rooms are extremely clean and comfortable. 24-hour Reception. Tourist information is available at the Reception Desk.

Hotel Mezquita Address: Plaza Santa Catalina 1 The hotel is situated in the middle of the Old Town, just few meters from the Mosque and the Fortress of the Christian Kings. The hotel lobby is extremely pretty and heavily decorated in a baroque and renaissance style. Nice and comfortable rooms. Staff is friendly and very helpful (24-hour Reception). Excellent good value for money.

ordoba is not a large metropolis but the city offers all kinds of possibilities for shopping: from international fashion franchises to chic boutiques. Get your credit card ready for a workout!

Opening Hours Large Department Stores and Malls are continually open from 10:00am to 10:00pm. Small shops open approximately from 10:00a.m. to 1:30-2:00pm. They have a break and then open again from 5:00pm to 8:30-9:00pm. Closed on Sunday. Payment options Cash or credit card. If you are paying by credit card, please have your ID or Passport with you. Employees are obligated to request documentation. Taxes VAT rate in Spain is 21%. Non-EU residents may avail of tax-free - Value Added Tax (VAT) - for purchases of more than €90.15. Don’t forget to apply for reimbursement at the Airport. Sales For discounts and great buys, don’t miss “Rebajas” Period (sales). “Rebajas” take place twice a year: summer sales are from July until August, whereas winter sales start in the second week of January and last until the end of February. During “Rebajas” you can find great discounts from 15% to 75%. Streets are full of people trying to find the best discounts and you will have to endure long queues when paying, especially on weekends.

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CORDOBA

Shopping

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Shopping Streets

Gondomar & Concepcion Streets Gondomar Street begins at Tendillas Square and ends at Gran Capitan Boulevard. This part of the city belonged to the old bourgeois area. From Gran Capitan Boulevard the popular Concepcion Street extends to Paseo de la Victoria, one of the Avenues with highest traffic density in Cordoba. Nowadays all these streets have become the ideal place for a shopping session and people fill them during the whole day, even in summer thanks to the wide awnings put by the City Council to protect people from the sun. As a consequence of its central situation and its enormous popularity, Gondomar Street has the highest rental rates in the city. Here you will find all kinds of fashion stores such as Zara, Bershka, Pull & Bear, Etam as well as banks, gift shops etc. We recommend you take a look at one of the oldest toy shop in the city, “Los Guillermos”: here you can find any gift you need. They specialize, in particular, in toy soldiers, model airplanes and trains.

Cruz Conde Street This street has been recently renovated and transformed into a pedestrian area, ideal for shopping and ruining your budget. The street is considered as an important part of the Shopping District, which is composed of Gondomar, Concepcion, Ronda de los Tejares and Cruz Conde Streets). Numerous fashion shops and international franchises have inaugurated here their stores (Desigual, Punto Roma, Springfield, Massimo Dutti, etc.) turning the street into one of the most crowded in Cordoba.

Ronda de los Tejares Avenue Ronda de los Tejares is, without a doubt, one of the main shopping streets in Cordoba. The traffic in this area is sometimes a hell (we recommend using public transport) but the wide sidewalks allow us to make purchases conveniently. The main option here is the popular Department Store “El Corte Ingles” which is composed of six floors where you can find almost everything. Along the street you will find as well all kinds of shops (Cortefiel, Elena Miró, Yamamay, etc.), old cafes, travel agencies, etc.

La Viñuela Maybe Viñuela area is somewhat far from downtown but it’s worth talking about this shopping area.

La Viñuela is possibly one of the most popular areas to do shopping among “cordobeses”: every day hundreds of people crowd the streets of this humble district. You can find everything you need away from the major commercial brands without reducing quality. Paqui Diaz is one of the most famous shops in this area (women´s fashion). Miguel Peris is a local shop specialized in classic men´s fashion. If you have time enough and you're a curious tourist, we recommend you take a look at “Mercado del Marrubial”, popularly known as “Mercado de la Mosca”. Here you will find a traditional Andalusian market where humble people come to buy food. It's a real spectacle to see the huge variety of fish, meat and fresh fruit. In addition, prices are really affordable compared to other European cities. Bus Lines from downtown:

Department Stores El Corte Ingles El Corte Ingles the biggest Department Store Group in Europe and ranks fourth Worldwide. The stores are very large in size and offer a wide range of products: music, household, furniture, hardware, books, clothes, groceries, gourmet food, travel agency, cars and even real estate services. In a Globalized World, the international expansion of El Corte Ingles began in 2001 in Portugal, with a huge Store in Lisbon and continued in 2006 with a Store in Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto. Currently, a third one is planned. El Corte Ingles has two stores in Cordoba downtown: Ronda de los Tejares Avenue and Jesus Maria Street. A third one is located in a suburb of the city. www.elcorteingles.es

Malls & Shopping Centers

El Arcangel Shopping Centre Popular Shopping Centre located opposite the football stadium and only 2 km from old town. This Mall was built in 1994 and has 33,000 square meters where you can enjoy up to 90 different stores: clothing, footwear, video games, newspapers, food, cinemas, restaurants… Springfield, Lefties, The Phone House, Marionaud Parfumeries, C & A, Eroski, Game Stop, Calzedonia, Kid Fashion, Orange, McDonalds ... Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: Calle Centro Comercial Arcángel s/n Phone Number: 957750090

El Zoco Shopping Centre This Mall, built in 2005, has an area of 17,000 square meters. More than 80 different commercial establishments distributed in three floors: McDonald's, Gambrinus Bar, Celop, Oteros Sport etc. Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: Calle José María Martorell, s/n Phone Number: 957455290

La Sierra Shopping Centre La Sierra is a modern and well-connected Shopping Center near the Train Station, probably the best in town. The Mall has a total area of 108,586 square meters and over 2000 parking spaces. Some of the stores that you can enjoy here are: Bershka, Yves Rocher, Zara, Carrefour, Massimo Dutti, Oysho, Vodafone, The Phone House, Mango, Blanco, Game Stop, as well as modern cinema screens. Openning Hours: 10:00-22:00 Address: Calle Poeta Emilio Prados s/n Phone Number: 957283322

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Fountain in Downtown

El Corte Ingles Department Store

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Cordoba Souvenirs

Moving away from the typical souvenirs, Cordoba boasts many unique handicrafts. Since the Middle Ages, the city became a major production center for leather products, porcelain and silver filigree. At the same time, other interesting souvenirs to take home are: Olive Oil, Fan, Arab Pastries, Flamenco Castanets or Montilla Moriles wine. Around the Mosque and tourist streets you will find many souvenir shops full of fridge magnets, postcards, picture books etc. but if you want to escape from the typical and boring souvenirs we recommend visiting some of these shops: • Taller Meryan (address: Calle de las Flores, 2): Leather products. • Adelfas Campos (address: Calle Velázquez Bosco, 8): Porcelain. • Artesanía Andaluza (address: Calle Tomás Conde, 3): Silver filigree and leather products. • Artesanía Los Patios (addres: Calle Cardenal Herrero 30) Porcelain. • El Humo (address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 68) wonderful

pottery designs

Olive Oil: The Province of Cordoba produces some of the best olive oils in the world. If you are thinking about buying an olive oil bottle, we recommend you try olive oil from Baena or Priego de Cordoba, two small villages near Cordoba. Anyway ask the clerk, he will know how to help you choose the right one for you. There is a gourmet shop near the Mosque where visitors can buy excellent local olive oil or wine: Bodegas Mezquita (address: Calle Cardenal Herrero, 8). Recently, COVAP has opened an interesting gourmet shop near the Old Town ( address: Calle Lineros) where you can buy and enjoy local culinary delights such as Spanish ham, wine, olive oil, etc.

Bookshops

Beta Bookshop This chain of Bookshops is particularly popular in Seville where they have 7 shops. Recently, Beta has opened a great bookshop in the city center that meets the demands of a city with great literary tradition. In Beta Bookshop you will find all kinds of books and literary genres: drama, poetry, photo books, travel guides, etc. Beta Bookshop also has a low cost section where you can find interesting books at bargain prices. If you have any questions, the staff will kindly help you find what you're looking for. Address: Calle Córdoba de Veracruz, 2 Telephone: 957497515 Website: http://www.libreriasbeta.com

Luque Bookshop Luque Bookshop is, without a doubt, the most popular in Cordoba and was founded in 1919 by Rogelio Diaz Luque. For more than eight decades the company ran two bookshops in downtown. Unfortunately, the economic crisis wreaked havoc on the family business and they had to shut down. Thanks to the popular initiative (collecting signatures, Facebook groups, etc.), four former employees of the bookshop and a son of the former owner decided to reopen Luque Bookshop. Currently, Luque Bookshop has over 300 square meters filled with all kinds of books. There is a space dedicated for writers: Faber-Castell, Mont Blanc, Parker, Cross, etc. Addres: Calle Jesus Maria 6 Telephone: 957498333 Website: http://www.librerialuque.es/

El Corte Ingles Bookshop El Corte Ingles, located on Ronda de los Tejares Avenue, has a magnificent bookshop with independent access from the street. Here, you will find a huge variety of books well sorted by genre: Health, Sports, Historical Fiction, Biography, Poetry, etc. One of the great strengths of this bookshop is the customer service: If you cannot find your book, the employees will order for you. Address: Avenida Ronda de los Tejares 30 Telephone: 957222881

Monte Sion (Christian Bookshop) Spain is a deeply religious country where the Church still retains some degree of influence, especially in villages and small towns. Every self-respecting city has a Christian Bookstore and Cordoba is no exception to the rule. Monte Sion Bookshop, located in downtown, sells a large range of Bibles, Christian Life books as well as cards, liturgical objects, rosaries, crucifixes, etc. Address: Plaza de los Carrillos 1 Telephone: 957474390

Totem (Comic Bookshop) This wonderful bookshop, specialized in fantasy and comic-books, is unique in Cordoba: hundreds of avid comic fans come each month to this shop which is located in the city center. In Totem you will find from classic comics such as Superman or Spiderman to the latest in manga comics, newly arrived from Japan. Besides comics, Totem sells all kinds of items for collectors: T-shirts, posters, action figures… Address: Calle Rodríguez Marín, 21

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Olive Oil

Gourmet chips? It may sound strange, but if you visit

Cordoba, you cannot miss the opportunity to sample

one of the most delicious chips you've ever tasted.

The local company, San Nicasio, produces since 1999

these mouthwatering chips in a small town called

Priego de Cordoba, which is located 100km from the

city. This town, surrounded by gentle hills, is

inundated by olive groves and small olive oil factories.

Due to soil conditions and climatology, this olive oil is

considered by many experts as one of the best in the

world. This blessing was not ignored by San Nicasio

Company which started to produce chips fried in

genuine and high quality olive oil with a touch of pink

salt brought from the Himalayas.

At the same time, San Nicasio has designed a modern

packaging process that allows chip bags to withstand

extreme conditions and high altitude. Thanks to this

process, San Nicasio can export its chips to diverse

countries in the world such as Japan, Korea, France,

UK or USA, maintaining first-day freshness.

Usually these chips are sold in gourmet shops and

department stores like El Corte Ingles.

Website: http://www.sannicasio.es

Gourmet Chips

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ordoba offers a great range of leisure facilities and many activities for the hundreds of thousands of tourists who come every season to the city, from Flamenco soirées to Cultural

Night Shows. The fun begins!

Entertainment Centre El Tablero El Tablero Entertainment Centre has 15 modern cinema screens which are considered as the best in the city. Besides all this, the cinema is equipped with the latest generation of seats, really comfortable. But this Entertainment Centre is more than cinemas: we will also find Italian Restaurants, fast food Restaurants, Sega Park, OpenCor and over 500 parking spaces. Address: Calle Juan Ramón Jiménez s/n Phone Number: 957405259

Grand Theatre (Gran Teatro) The Grand Theatre is located in an elegant nineteenth century building, which was designed by Amadeo Rodriguez. The Theatre follows a classic Italian model with 28 boxes and has a seating capacity for up to nearly one thousand people. Since its inauguration (1873), The Grand Theatre has become an icon of the city and a cultural center of the utmost importance for the city. Currently, The Gran Theatre is one of the most active in Andalusia: important performances and plays take place here every season. Website: http://www.teatrocordoba.org/gran-teatro/ Address: Avenida Gran Capitan, 3 Telephone: 957480644.

Gongora Theater Gongora Theatre was built between 1929 and 1932 by the renowned architect Luis Gutierrez Soto who had previously designed buildings

as Cine Callao (Madrid), Bar Chicote (Madrid) or the old Terminal of Madrid-Barajas Airport. The building was designed in a Mediterranean style as we can see in its façade. For some time in the past, the theater was used as a cinema, the most elegant in the city but in 1997 it was closed for improvement works. Recently, the theatre reopened its doors and has become a point of reference in Cordoba. Website: http://www.teatrocordoba.org/teatro-góngora/ Address: Calle Jesus Maria 10 Phone: 957480644

The Mosque Night Show This great show is called "El Alma de Cordoba" (The Soul of Cordoba). Through new technologies (sound-and-light show like nothing you've ever seen before) you will make a wonderful journey to the origin of one of the most important monuments in Europe during the Middle Ages. The lights reflected on the walls of the building, the sounds and projections transport us to the times when Cordoba was the capital of the world and one of the most important cities in history. The tour begins in the Orange Tree Courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos) where visitors are greeted by a really beautiful projection. Then we continue inside the temple where amazing lights and sounds relate the history of the monument. (www.elalmadecordoba.com)

Tour duration: about 1hour

Audio guide service is available in 8 languages. (Included in price).

Entry fee 18€ (adult) children between 7-10 years 9 €

Maximum group number: 80

Check timetables

Consider buying in advance.

Hammam Al-Andalus (Arab Baths) The Hammam is very popular in Middle Eastern culture (Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia…) since many centuries ago. According to some experts, the Hammam is considered an evolution of the Roman saunas: citizens came to these public baths (men and women were separated) where they talked and discussed about politics, religion, poetry, etc. Thanks to this wonderful initiative, visitors can feel for a day as an Al-Andalus citizen. The Hammam has been recreated in great detail from the music and the smells to the interior decoration. Following the traditional model, these Arab baths are composed of three rooms: cold water room, warm water room and hot water room. These temperature changes are very healthy for the circulatory system. At the same time, there is also a Turkish bath (steam bath), which was very popular during the Middle Ages. Finally, Alandalus Hammam offers a wonderful selection of massages and body treatments. Price: from 23€ (10% off by presenting a valid Mosque ticket). Address: Calle Corregidor Luis de la Cerda 51 Website: http://cordoba.hammamalandalus.com/

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If you like vintage music and you are looking for something special, Cordoba has two shops really

interesting: Discos Fuentes Guerra

This shop is very popular among all music lovers in the city. The store specializes in different musical genres:

rock&roll, rap, alternative music, country etc. In addition, you can also find new edition vinyl records

and vinyl reissues imported from USA and Northern Europe. Address: Calle del Caño, 11

Amigos del Disco This tiny shop is located near the City Hall and houses an

impressive collection of old records and vinyls: The Beetles, Bee Gees, Rolling Stones, ABBA, etc.

Store owner, Bartolome Jaen, began a personal record-collection 25 years ago, from little-known songwriters to

rock bands or British pop groups. In 1994 Bartolome Jaen decided to share his personal collection and set up

a small record store, which is unique in Cordoba. Currently, Amigos del Disco has more than 200,000

copies including CDs, cassettes, vinyl, maxi singles, etc. Address: Calle San Fernando 5

CORDOBA

Vintage & Alternative Music

Entertainment

Gongora Theatre

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Royal Stable Show

King Felipe II built in 1570 the Royal Stable in Cordoba where the horses were educated and trained by the best experts. Felipe II was truly passionate about horses and their training and was the promoter of an ambitious personal project: he wanted to create the perfect horse breed. For years, veterinarians and experts were crossing different breeds of horses from all around the world. The final result was the birth of the Andalusian horse, a symbol of the Spanish Empire. Today Cordoba has regained its position as a breeding and training center. Besides, the city boasts one of the most advanced veterinary centers in Europe which is specialized in horses. If you visit Cordoba, do not miss this great equestrian show. Schedule: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 21:00 / Sundays and holidays (12:00). Prices: Adults (13 and older): 15€ / Children (3 to 12 years): 10€

Fortress of the Christian Kings Show If you decide to attend, you will have the opportunity to experience a unique night show that won’t let you down at all. In one of the walls of the fortress courtyard is projected a historic tour of Cordoba through some of its most important figures: Seneca, Maimonides, Bishop Osio, Gran Capitan and Fernando III. The tour continues across the gardens of the fortress where visitors will be surprised by an incredible show of lights and sounds accompanied by medieval music and Flamenco. Price: Saturday-Monday: 6,80 € / Tuesday-Friday: 9€ Schedule: Check schedules. It may vary according to season. Consider buying in advance at the Tourist Office, which is located in front of the Fortress of the Christian Kings.

Guitar Festival During the month of July, Cordoba becomes the guitar capital of the World. The festival, celebrated for over 30 years, is nationally and internationally known: every year great artists and guitar lovers from all around the world are invited to join and the city exudes a festive atmosphere. Since its first edition in 1980, this popular festival has continued to attract distinguished artists such as Bob Dylan, Paco de Lucia, Joan Manuel Serrat, BB King, Mark Knopfler, John Fogerty and many more. The Festival can be divided into two different parts: Education Courses on classic guitar, flamenco and electronic guitar, composition courses, flamenco singing lessons, dance classes and much more. These courses are taught by great guest artists and are addressed to everyone who loves music and guitar. Concerts During the month of July, every corner of Cordoba can be converted into a makeshift stage: Corredera Square, Gran Theatre, Tendillas Square, Axerquía Theatre and even the Fortress of the Christian Kings. Website: www.guitarracordoba.com

Botanical Garden Cordoba Botanical Garden is located near the Guadalquivir River, between the Roman Bridge and the University Campus. After a long planning phase, the Botanical Garden was built in 1987 thanks to the economic support of Local Government. Since its opening, the garden has grown and has been supplemented with different plant species that enrich it: genebanks, herbarium, spermatheca, plant fossil collections, temporary exhibitions, interpretive centers, etc. Perhaps, the two most interesting parts of the garden are the Museum of Paleobotany and Ethnobotany. In short, if you love botany you cannot miss this Botanical Garden, which has been awarded on numerous occasions for its richness and conservation.

Moreover, the price is quite affordable compared to other similar gardens in Spain. Autumn-Winter: from 10:00 to 17:30 / Sunday: 10:00-15:00 Spring: from 10:00 to 20:00 / Sunday: 10:00-15:00 Summer: 9:00 to 14:00 Monday Closed Price: General 3€ / Reduced 1,5€

Website: www.jardinbotanicodecordoba.com

Football In Spain football is more than mere sport, it is a religion and Cordoba is no exception to the rule. The city has a team that plays in the Spanish Second Division (Liga Adelante) and is encouraged every weekend with devotion by thousands of fans. If you want to enjoy a football match, why not come to the Stadium and join the fun? Football Stadium (Nuevo Arcangel) is currently undergoing a huge remodel but soon it will be completed 100%. When the Stadium is finished, it will seat 25,000 spectators and will become one of the most modern stadiums in Spain. If you want to get fully equipped before the match, visit to the official team store, which is located in front of the Stadium (El Arcangel Shopping Centre), and buy a scarf or a jersey.

uring the weekend Cordoba turns into a city that does not sleep. Its streets are full of people of all ages willing to have fun, stay up and dance all night.

There is a wide range of night entertainment. You will find many bars and pubs dispersed throughout the city. However, Cordoba Nightlife can be divided mainly in three areas: • Plan Renfe • Ciudad Jardin • Downtown

Plan Renfe Libertad Avenue, near Train Station, has become one of the most popular areas in Cordoba and most expensive too. Parallel to this popular Avenue, there is a wide boulevard where people come to stroll and chat and numerous fountains significantly cool the atmosphere during long summer nights. If you are looking for some place to eat, you can start your evening dining at one of the many varied restaurants that you will find in the area (Asian, Japanese, American, Italian, etc.). Then, if you want to continue the fun with a drink, you can go to some of the pubs around

D

CORDOBA

Nuevo Arcangel Stadium

Nightlife

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the area: Bambuddha or O´Connel´s are two really good options. The area is not too big but the ambience is very pleasant and generally is frequented by people over 25-30 years old. Moma (Address: intersection between Libertad Avenue and Miguel Gila Street). Sojo (Address: Miguel Gila Street).

Ciudad Jardin

Ciudad Jardin is a traditional quarter, very popular in Cordoba. Over the years, many students have decided to live here sharing apartments as rents are cheaper than in other areas of the city. At the same time, Ciudad Jardin has been occupied gradually by immigrants who have set up their business (“locutorios”, grocery stores, etc.) here. Over time, the quarter has become the most crowded area to hang out in Cordoba and generally is frequented by Colleges’ students and teenagers. There are plenty of bars and pubs to choose: El Grifo, La Libra and El Capote are some of the most popular. Casa Madriles is a place young “Cordobeses” known well. This tavern imitates the aesthetics of the typical bars in Madrid, something very curious in an Andalusian city. Excellent wines, delicious “Flamenquines” and good music (address: Calle Alhaken II). Banagher Irish Pub: one of the few Irish pubs in town: great selection of beers, nice music and good atmosphere (address: Plaza de Costa Sol).

Downtown

When the shops close and the activity ceases, the city center wakes up again through the numerous bars, pubs and clubs in the area: Underground This nice pub is decorated like a subway station. The place is frequented by lovers of alternative music and music of the 80’s. Address: Calle Conde Robledo 1 Gongora Gran Cafe One of the trendiest places in the city: live music, funny monologues and disco session when the night falls. Address: Calle Gongora 10 METRO Gay-friendly Disco in downtown. Good music and fun. Address: Calle Conde de Robledo s /n Café de la Luna It’s a benchmark for lovers of live music in Cordoba. They promote young artists of different styles. Some of the groups that have performed here are: El Canto del Loco, Pereza or Joaquin Sabina. Address: Plaza de Cervantes Millennium Great live music by young groups who look for success. Address: Calle Alfaros 33 Templarios Who said that the Middle Ages were boring? In this bar we can enjoy a fun trip to the twelfth or thirteenth century: in every room the central theme is the Middle Ages (armors, torches, shields etc.). The pub can be divided into three parts: A relaxed area where we can enjoy tea, ice creams or just a coffee. The central room is equipped with all necessary to hold musical performances, monologues, magic shows etc. The third room is designed as a bar-brewery. One of the best days of the week to visit this pub is on Thursday. Every Thursday they celebrate a Beer Party where the ambience is great. Address: Plaza de los Carrillos, 4

RIFF Good music, friendly atmosphere and artists who want to find their way to fame. Address: Avenida Gran Capitán 35 Café Theatre Nicely decorated pub localed in downtown. Good atmosphere and friendly service. Address: Avenida de la Libertad S/N La Galeona This pub has a very special ambience. All decoration is inspired by pirate ships: caravels, pirate hats, anchors, swords, barrels of rum, etc. Have a drink with your friends while you enjoy live performances. Very friendly staff. Address: Calle Valdes Leal 1 Cafe-Pub Atrio From early morning, Atrio Cafe-Pub open its doors without a break until dawn. Atrio is an elegant place located in one of the most exclusive streets of the city, Gran Capitan Avenue. The beautiful decor, the elegant terrace and coffee presentation will certainly delight every customer. If you want to have a drink, ask for the Gin-Tonic Menu. Address: Avenida Gran Capitan 32 Cruz Conde 19 This club, located in one of the most popular streets of Cordoba, is gaining popularity relatively quickly: affordable prices, free entry and its excellent situation have contributed to its success. Good music and friendly staff. Address: Cruz Conde 19

Useful Information According to state regulations, the clubs do not allow entry to persons under 18 years old. Some clubs have light-session (alcoholic beverages are prohibited) during the afternoon and they allow entry of minors. Smoking is not allowed. Sometimes the clubs have the right of reserved admission, although face-control is not common in Spain.

Night Cinemas In the last decade, Spanish films have found a place on the world stage: young directors are doing a great work which is being recognized and rewarded worldwide. In addition to all this, many Spanish actors and actresses are having a notable success in the U.S. (Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem, Antonio Banderas, Paz Vega, etc.) contributing to the global success of the Spanish Cinema. Some cinemas have late-night session where you can enjoy Hollywood new releases in comfortable seats and 3D screens. Guadalquivir Cinemas Reduced Price on Wednesday Address: Calle Libertador Simón Bolívar 46

Arcangel Multicines UCC Reduced Price on Wednesday Address: Avenida del Arcángel

CineSur El Tablero Address: Calle Juan Ramon Jimenez

Alkazar Reduce Price on Wednesday Address: Calle Reyes Catolicos 15 Usually, cinemas are not expensive in Cordoba. The price of tickets is approximately 5-7€ and 8-10€ for 3D films. For more information about movies, showtimes, sessions in English and much more, you can check the following website: www.ecartelera.com

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All you need to know about what to visit, culture, gastronomy and much more in the palm of your hand.

Travel Guides by Local Experts www.mundo-guides.com

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What to take Cordoba is a charming medieval city that should be discovered by walking through its cobbled streets and romantic whitewashed squares filled with flowers. To avoid difficult situations, it is essential to have comfortable shoes: during the summer sandals are the most recommended footwear for visiting the old town. Sandals will make you feel cooler and more comfortable during the long and hot summer days. Besides the footwear, it is also important to be fully equipped to protect yourself from the sun: light clothing, cap, sunglasses, fresh water and sunscreen. If you are planning to spend several days in Cordoba you can bring a swimsuit as Malaga and Costa del Sol (one of the most important tourist areas in Europe) are an hour-and-half drive. During spring months, the sun´s rays can be already too strong. Don’t forget to bring a cap and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Early in the morning and late in the evening the temperature drops significantly, we recommend you bringing a jacket or a sweater. Autumn can be very rainy, consider taking a raincoat or a small umbrella. Winter is not particularly cold although frosts are common during the night. Take your anorak and gloves. Do not forget to photocopy your documentation and plane tickets. It could be very useful in case of theft.

Emergency & Pharmacies

Phone number for all emergency services is 112, the same as in others European Union countries. Depending on the nature of your problem, you should indicate the department: Police, Fire Department or Emergency Medical Service. The pharmacist can help you with minor medical problems without having to visit the doctor. Pharmacies are open from Monday to Saturday during business hours (until 9:00 pm). Pharmacies on duty (“Farmacia de Guardia” in Spanish), open 24

hours and are posted on the door of all the other pharmacies.

Disabled Travelers

The city is fully adapted for disabled people: offices, restaurants, hotels, museum, etc. have facilities designed to accommodate people with disabilities. Low-floor buses allow easy access for wheelchair users and elderly citizens. If you need a wheelchair accessible TAXI, call to TAXI Call Center (tel: 957764444). Some traffic lights in downtown make a sound to alert blind people when they can cross the street. During your visit to the city, probably you have seen some small kiosks under the name of ONCE. This company sells lottery and offer work to disabled people, trying to integrate them into society.

Bad Experiences Cordoba is a city not particularly dangerous but you can always have a bad time if you don’t take some basic precautions: watch your bags, camera, passport, etc. especially near the Mosque or the Roman Bridge. Near the Mosque one can see gypsy women who offer small branches of rosemary or try to read the future by your hand and then ask you for money. Never take the branch or let they hold your hand. Just ignore them. The police normally check the area to shoo them. If, unfortunately, you’ve been mugged, call 091 and then cancel all your Credit Cards. The nearest police station to the historic center is located on Calle Juda Leví s/n (tel: 957290760).

Personal Space & Communication Skills In Spain personal space is much smaller than in other European countries such as Germany, United Kingdom or France: when two people hold a conversation they speak close to each other. You shouldn't worry about that, it is quite normal here. At the same time, Spaniards talk much with their hands and speak in a high tone voice. This should not be misinterpreted by tourists, it is a cultural thing and they have no intention of offending you. Usually, Spaniards greet in a much more tactile manner than in other countries: men embrace and pat each other on the shoulder, and women kiss each other twice on the cheeks to say hello.

Useful Information

Spain is a zero tolerance country with smokers. Recently, it has been absolutely prohibited smoking in all restaurants, hotels,

shops, hospitals and other public spaces, creating a great controversy across the country.

If you want to buy cigarettes, you can only do it at licensed tobacco shops, called "estanco" in Spanish.

According to State laws, there is a ban on selling tobacco to persons under the age of 18.

The sale of alcoholic beverages is also prohibited to persons under eighteen years. Shop staff can require ID card if they

have doubts about your age. The high price of drinks in clubs and the limited budget of young people have created a new phenomenon popularly

known as "botellón": young people purchase alcohol in shops and then meet in small parks or urban squares to drink and

listen to music. This phenomenon has created a great controversy in the country as it causes noise pollution and

damage to street furniture. Recently, the City Council has fitted out an area of the city for

young people, preventing the city center from these regrettable mass meetings.

Smoking & Alcohol

Spain enjoys a great variety of TV channels: news, sport, documentaries, cooking, etc. However the most important ones

are TVE and La 2, the national public broadcasters. Canal Sur Andalucia and Canal Sur Television are the Andalusian

Public Television Stations. In addition to the channels mentioned above, there is a endless

list of private channels all around the country (La Sexta, Telecinco, Antena 3, Neox, Cuatro, Divinity, Explora, TV13, etc.).

There are also multiple pay channels which offer sports, sitcoms, movies, etc such as Viajar, National Geographic, Discovery, FOX, Gol TV, Canal +, Canal Cocina, Calle 13, Paramount Comedy, etc. El Pais is the most widely read newspaper in Spain and one of the major newspapers in Europe. Historically, El Pais is known

for its liberal thought and information rigor. The second most read newspaper is El Mundo.

Making a comparison, this newspaper has a different point of view and less liberal editorial content.

AS and Marca are the two major sports newspapers in the country: their pages are filled with news and rumors about the

great Spanish football teams. There are also newspapers that cover local and Regional news:

the main ones are Diario Cordoba and El Día de Cordoba.

TV & Press

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Cordoba Card Cordoba Card represents one of the most convenient and cheapest ways to visit Cordoba: thanks to this Card you can get great discounts in sights, museums, public transport, Flamenco shows, etc. There are 6 different types to choose from 15 € to 43 €. Buying your Cordoba Card you will receive an excellent map and a small guide of Cordoba. Information and sales points:

• Tourist Office Tendillas Ssquare • Tourist Office Camposanto de los Martires (opposite the Fortress of the Christian Kings) • Train station Tourist Office

Guided Tours

Cordoba Vision has been providing travel services in Cordoba for several decades. The company offers a three-hour guided tour to Madinat al-Zahra (Spanish, French and English) for 10€. The bus departs from Alcazar Avenue (in front of the Fortress of the Christian Kings). You can also reserve a combined tour of the Old town and Madinat al-Zahra for around 30€. Finally Cordoba Vision offers also guided tours to Seville and Granada. Check out prices because they may change depending on the season. Address: Calle Doctor Marañón 1 Phone: 957 23 17 34

Language Spain's official language is Spanish, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Generally, Spaniards don’t have a high level of English so it would be convenient if you could minimally express yourself in Spanish. Check out our section "Basic Words". Anyway you should know that in Andalusia people speak a slightly different dialect than the rest of Spain: they speak very fast and they don’t pronounce all the words properly. Don’t worry about that. “Andaluces” are very friendly and open minded, they will try to communicate with you anyhow.

Local Currency

The official currency in Spain is EURO (€). The country adopted the euro in 2001, together with its European partners. This currency is used in other 15 European countries, which means that more than 300 million people use it every day. In the coming years, countries such as Bulgaria, Poland or Rumania are expected to join the Euro Zone. Previously, Spaniards used the Spanish currency, called “peseta” (pts.): 1€=166,39 pts. Some people yearn for the return of the “peseta” as the arrival of the euro brought about a general increase in prices.

Phone Calls Phone cards can be purchased at stand-news and licensed tobacco shops. You will find different phone cards according to number of minutes, destinations, etc. Another way to call abroad cheaply is to go to a Locutorio, which is a commercial place where the general public can make international or long distance phone calls more conveniently than from a public phone booth on the street. Plus, here you can make calls using Internet and even send money. Internet Cafe Excalibur (address: Calle Abogado Enriquez Barrios 9). Calls from your Hotel's room are usually much more expensive than from a public phone. All telephone numbers in Spain have 9 digits (including area codes).

If the phone number starts with 9 indicates that it is a landline. If it starts with 6 is a mobile phone. The phone numbers starting with 803, 806 and 807 indicate that they are much more expensive than a common call. Numbers beginning with 800 or 900 are free of charge. The telephone country code for Spain is (+34). There are four international calling rates depending on the destination of the call: European Union, other European countries, North Africa, America and Rest of World.

Public Toilets

Some downtown streets have public toilets available to all citizens by paying a small fee. These toilets look like small cabins. When you pay the fee you can get in and the door closes automatically. If the client does not open the door manually, it opens automatically after a few minutes. Alternatively, you can go to a Mall or a bar, although you should ask for a small drink to use the toilet. Sometimes the door is locked and you must ask the waiter for the key.

CORDOBA

If you are planning to rent a car in Spain, you will need the International Driving Permit, which is valid in over 150 countries (International Driving Permits may not be issued more than six months in advance of desired effective date). If you are a citizen of the European Union driving license from your country will suffice. Rent a Car Aval Address: Avenida de la Torrecilla 20 957297422 Avis (Train Station) Address: Glorieta de las Tres Culturas 957401445 Escalfe Address: Poligono Chinales, plot 61 957283972 Europcar Address: Avenida Aeropuerto s / n 957402396 Europcar (Train Station) Address: Glorieta de las Tres Culturas 957703480 Hertz (Train Station) Address: Glorieta de las Tres Culturas 957402061 National Atesa Address: Poligono Industrial Las Quemadas 20-1 957325474 National Atesa Address: Avenida Cervantes 20 957475979

Never put off until tomorrow what can be done today: we strongly recommend arranging your rental car well in advance as during the high season demand is huge. Plus you will avoid unnecessary queues. You can rent a car in your Hotel as well. Ask your Receptionist for help. Car rental companies usually ask for a Credit card number to cover possible damages, fines, etc. (Debit cards are not accepted). If you do not have Credit card, the company will request a deposit of approximately 700€.

Rent a Car

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Cash Points Don´t worry if you need to draw money from an ATM: Spain is the European country with the highest density of ATMs per square meter, which is a tremendous convenience for the Spanish people and visitors. When using an ATM, please note that there are no any suspicious people around. If possible, use the ATM inside the bank. In some ATMs you can buy tickets for sporting events, Theater, etc. If you need to get money urgently, you can use Western Union which offers money transfer service (tel: 900633633).

Credit Cards In Spain you won’t need to carry large amounts of cash as there are many ATMs everywhere and most shops accept credit cards. The most common credit cards in Spain are VISA and MasterCard: the major Banks give cash using these Credit cards. When paying by credit card the employee will ask for your ID card or Passport to verify your identity. On occasions it is necessary to type the secret number. If you have more than one credit card, do not bring them all together; try to take them separately. If your credit card is stolen you should cancel it as soon as possible by calling VISA (900991124) MasterCard (900 97 12 31) or American Express (902 37 56 37) and report the loss to the nearest Police Station.

Postal Service

The Spanish Postal Service has improved quickly in recent years, matching the Postal Service of other European countries. Post offices are open from 08:00 to 21:00 Monday to Friday and Saturday from 09:00 to 17:00. From Post offices you can send registered letters, telegrams and postcards. Priority mail (urgente) ensures speedier and safer arrival. To send or receive money you should use an urgent Money Order (Giro Telegrafico urgente in Spanish). Packages must be properly wrapped and sealed to be sent. The price depends on weight and destination. Postage rates for sending ordinary mail depend on destination: European Union countries, rest of Europe, America and rest of World. There are also mailboxes through the city. Mailboxes are large and yellow. SEUR is the main courier service in Spain (tel: 902101010). If you prefer other international companies such as FedEx, DHL or UPS are also present in Spain.

Opening Hours

Opening hours in Spain are really long compared to other European countries. Generally, small businesses open their doors at 9:30 / 10:00 until 13:30/14:00 when they take a break for lunch and “siesta”. Then, they return to work at 16:30 / 17:00 and stay open until 20:30 to 21:00. On Saturday afternoon and Sunday the immense majority of small shops close.

This Spanish habit is not practiced by large shopping centers which are open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 22:00 without interruption. With regard to restaurants, they begin lunch service from 13:00 until 15:30/16:00. Dinners are served from 20:30 to 22:30/23:00. Many monuments and museums are closed on Monday (staff day off). The vast majority of commercial banks work from 09:00 to 14:00 and close during the evenings except some banks which open on Thursday afternoon.

ATM Machine

CORDOBA

Tourist Office

(Fortress of the Christian Kings) (34)902201774

Tourist Office (Tendillas Square) (34)957491677

Train Station (34) 902240202-(34)902243402

RENFE www.renfe.es (34)902240202

Bus Station (34)957404040

Mosque (34)957470512

Madinat al-Zahra (34)957355506

Fortress of the Christian Kings (34)957420151

Synagogue (34)957202928

Cordoba Card (34)915241370

Emergency Telephone Number (34)112

Police (34)091 & 112

Old Town Police Station (34)957290760

El Corte Ingles (Department Store) (34)902400222

Central Post Office (Calle Cruz Conde) (34)957479196

Theatre of Cordoba (34)957 48 02 37

Seville Int. Airport (34)954449000

Malaga Int. Airport (34)952048484

Iberia Airlines (34)902400500

Air Europa (34)902 401 501

Vueling Airlines (34)902104269

Socibus (daily buses Madrid-Cordoba) (34)915304417

Useful Phone Numbers

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Most people in Spain have a very low level of English. If you ask for help in English, it’s better to talk to young people, between 20 and 30 years old, who generally have higher levels of English. The official language is Spanish, a language that comes from Latin. The Arab presence for more than eight hundred years left its tremendous influence on the language as we can see in some words: “aceite” (oil), “almohada” (pillow) or “darsena” (dock). Spanish language is spoken by over 500 million people (the third most widely spoken language in the World after English and Chinese). However, there are many differences between Latin American Spanish and the Spanish spoken in Spain (different verbs, expressions and words). Together with the Spanish language, there are three other official languages in Spain: Catalan, Galician and Euskera. Pronunciation: One of the main keys to learn Spanish is that the words are pronounced just like they are written.

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Basic Words

Basic Words & Greetings Siete Seven Ventana Window

Si Yes Ocho Eight Bañera Bathtube

No No Nueve Nine Grifo Tap

Hola Hello, Hi Diez Ten Armario Closet

Adiós Goodbye Once Eleven Caja Fuerte Safe

Buenos días Good morning Doce Twelve No funciona It does´t work

Buenas tardes Good afternoon Trece Thirteen Televisión Television

Buenas noches Good evening Catorce Fourteen Radio Radio

¿Qué tal? How are you doing? Quince Fifteen Desayuno Breakfast

¿Como estas? How are you? Dieciseis Sixteen Comida Lunch

Estoy bien,gracias I am fine ,thank you Diecisiete Seventeen Cena Dinner

Gracias Thank you Dieciocho Eighteen

De nada You are welcome Diecinueve Nineteen Restaurants

¿Perdone? Excuse me? Veinte Twenty La carta, por favor The menu, please

Por favor Please Veintiuno Twenty-one Primer plato Main course

Hoy Today Veintidos Twenty-two Segundo plato Second dish

Ayer Yesterday Treinta Thirty Postre Dessert

Mañana Tomorrow Cuarenta Forty Vaso de vino Glass of wine

¿Qué? What? Cincuenta Fifty Botella de agua Bottle of water

¿Dónde? Where? Sesenta Sixty Cerveza Beer

Por qué? Why? Setenta Seventy Tapa Appetizer

Aquí Here Ochenta Eighty Cuchillo Knife

Lo siento I am sorry Noventa Ninety Tenedor Fork

No hablo español I don´t speak Spanish Cien Hundred Cuchara Spoon

Izquierda Left Doscientos Two Hundred Sal Salt

Derecha Right Trescientos Three Hundred Pimienta Pepper

Cerca Near Mil Thousand Servilleta Napkin

Grande Big Dos mil Two Thousand Carne Meat

Pequeño Small Un millón One million Pescado Fish

Entrada Entry Dos millones Two million Verdura Vegetable

Salida Exit Arroz Rice

Bueno Good Hotels Filete Steak

Malo Bad Numero de habitación Room Number Patatas fritas French Fries

Frío Cold Registrarse Check-in Ensalada Salad

Caliente Hot Pagar la habitación Check-out Sopa Soup

Reservar habitación Book a room Pollo Chicken

Numbers Cancelar una reserva Cancel a booking Ternera Beef

Cero Zero Recepción Front Desk Cerdo Pork

Uno One Servicio de habitaciones Room Service Azucar Sugar

Dos Two Llamada despertador Wake-up call Poco hecho Rare

Tres Three Gobernanta Housekeeping En su punto Medium Rare

Cuatro Four Director del Hotel Hotel Manager Muy hecho Well-done

Cinco Five Noise Ruido La cuenta, por favor The bill, please

Seis Six Ascensor Lift Propina Tip

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CORDOBA

¿Dónde está el baño? Where is the toilet? Banks

Camarero Waitress Banco Bank

Mostaza Mustard Caja de Ahorros Saving Bank

Salsa Sauce Cambio Change

Mayonesa Mayo Dinero Money

Asado Baked Billete Banknote

Cocido Boiled Cheque Cheque

Frito Fried Divisa Currency

Tarta Cake Caja Window

Tarta de queso Cheese cake Recibo Recipe

Marisco Seafood Cajaero Automatico Cash Point / ATM Machine

Estofado Stew ¿Dónde puedo cambiar mi dinero? Where can I change money?

Agua mineral Mineral Water Quiero cambiar dinero I want change money

Agua con gas Sparkling Water Firme aquí por favor Sign here, please

¿A qué hora abre el banco? At what time does the bank open?

Shopping Directions

¿Cuánto cuesta? How much is it? ¿Cómo puedo ir a…? How can I go to…?

¿A qué hora abre la tienda? At what time does the store open? Está lejos It´s far

¿A qué hora cierra la tienda? At what time does the store close? Está cerca It´s near

¿Cómo quiere pagar? How do you want to pay? Girar a la izquierda Turn left

En efectivo By cash Girar a la derecha Turn right

Con tarjeta de crédito By credit card Todo recto Go straight

Ropa para hombre Men´s clothes Esquina Corner

Ropa para mujer Women´s clothes ¿Cuánto tiempo se tarda…? How long does it take…?

Ropa de niños Children´s clothes La mejor forma de llegar a... The best way to go to…

Pantalón Pants ¿Dónde está la parada de autobus? Where is the bus stop?

Jersey Pull-over Iglesia Church

Camiseta T-Shirt Mezquita Mosque

Camisa Shirt Sinagoga Synagoge

Tienda Shop Templo Temple

Caro Expensive Calle Street

Barato Cheap Avenida Avenue

Talla Size Barrio District

Zapatos Shoes Fuente Fountain

Zapatos de tacón High heel shoes Plaza Square

Perfume Perfume Río River

Regalo Gift Jardín Garden

Abrigo Coat Parque Park

Vaqueros Jeans Semáforo Traffic Lights

Pantalones cortos Shorts Juderia Jewish Quarter

Pijama Pyjamas Autovia Divided Highway

Bañador Swimsuit Autopista Highway

Sombrero Hat Estación de Tren Train Station

Bolso Bag Orders & Warnings

Pulsera Bracelet ¡Rápido! Fast!

Algodón Cotton ¡Despacio! Slow!

Lana Wool ¡Entre! Come in!

Seda Silk ¡Venga! Come on!

Piel Leather ¡Cuidado! Watch out!

Postal Postcard ¡Socorro! Help!

Joyeria Jewelry ¡Callese! Shut up!

Libro Book ¡Espere! Wait

Diccionario Dictionary ¡Atención! Warning

Supermercado Supermarket ¡Peligro! Danger

Librería Bookshop Cerrado Closed

Zapatería Shoe Store Abierto Open

Quiosco Quiosk Prohibido Forbidden

Mostrador Counter Libre Free

Dependienta Salesclerk Averiado Out of order

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CORDOBA

Ocupado Busy Directions

Servicios Toilets ¿Cómo puedo ir a…? How can I go to…?

Aparcamiento Parking Está lejos It´s far

Se vende For sale Está cerca It´s near

Se alquila For rent Girar a la izquierda Turn left

Girar a la derecha Turn right

Hospital Todo recto Go straight

Dolor Pain Esquina Corner

Me duele… I feel pain ¿Cuánto tiempo se tarda…? How long does it take…?

Cabeza Head La mejor forma de llegar a... The best way to go to…

Pierna Leg ¿Dónde está la parada de autobus? Where is the bus stop?

Brazo Arm Iglesia Church

Cuello Neck Mezquita Mosque

Mano Hand Sinagoga Synagoge

Corazón Heart Templo Temple

Garganta Throat Calle Street

Tengo alergía I am allergic Avenida Avenue

Soy diabetico I am diabetic Barrio District

Soy celiaco I am celiac Fuente Fountain

Ambulancía Ambulance Plaza Square

Presión sanguinea Blood Pressure Río River

Tengo gripe I have the flu Jardín Garden

Dolor de cabeza Headache Parque Park

Dolor de estomago Stomach ache Semáforo Traffic Lights

Tengo Mareos I am dizzy Juderia Jewish Quarter

No puedo respirar I can´t breath Autovia Divided Highway

No puedo ver I can´t see Autopista Highway

Expirar Breath out Estación de Tren Train Station

Inspirar Breath in

Time

Airport Minuto Minute

Aeropuerto Airport Hora Hour

Facturar Check-in Media hora Half an hour

Control de policía Police Control Mediodía Noon

Equipaje Luggage Día Day

Equipaje de mano Hand luggage Lunes Monday

Tienda Shop Martes Tuesday

Auxiliar de vuelo Flight attendant Miercoles Wednesday

Piloto Pilot Jueves Thursday

Avión Plane Viernes Friday

Embarcar Board Sábado Saturday

Puerta de embarque Boarding Gate Domingo Sunday

Asiento Seat Enero January

Lineas Aereas Airline Febrero February

Vuelo Flight Marzo March

Llegadas Arrivals Abril April

Salidas Departures Mayo May

Aterrizaje Landing Junio June

Despegue Take-off Julio July

Cinturón Seatbelt Agosto August

Objetos perdidos Lost and found office Septiembre September

Vuelo cancelado Canceled Flight Octubre October

Vuelo retrasado Delayed Flight Noviembre November

Pasajero Passenger Diciembre December

Tarjeta de embarque Boarding pass Mes Month

Recogida de equipaje Baggage Claim Semana Week

Turbulencía Turbulence Año Year

Chaleco salvavidas Life vest Reloj Watch

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A Barrio de la Villa neighborhood (Priego) 33,34

Abbasid Caliphate 14 Basic Words 55, 57

Abd Allah 11 Bat Cave (Zuheros) 34

Abderramán I 6,9,10,13 Beer 41

Abderramán II 10,13,15 Bells of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela 14

Abderramán III 10,11,13,14,15,19,37 Black Bedroom (Viana Palace) 24

Agrippina 31 Bookshops 49

Al Gafiqi 17 Botanical Garden 51

Al-Andalus 1,6,9,11,14,15,16,17,

18,25,32,35,36,37,41, 44,46,50

Botellín (Beer) 41

Al-Andalus and Medicine 17 Building CajaSur 28

Al-Andalus Living Museum 16,36 Building of the Union and Fenix 27,29

Albolafia 7 Building Siena 27

Alcazar Gardens (Alcazar) 19 Bullfighting Museum 36

Alegrías 39 Bus Companies 3

Alfonso XI (King) 11,18,19,33,34 By Bus 3

Alfonso XIII Street 29 By Car 3

Alhaken II 10,12,13,18 By Plane 3

Alhaken II: The Educated Caliph 18 By Train 3

Aljama Mosque (Madinat al-Zahra) 15 Byzantine Empire 6

Al-Mansur 10,13,14 C

Almodovar Castle 33 Calahorra Tower 7, 16

Almodovar Gate 16,26 Caliphate Bath (Hammam) 14

Almohades 32,33 Caliphate of Baghdad 11

Alonso Manrique (Bishop) 12 Caliphate of Cordoba 6,10,11,33

Alonso Pinzon 19 Caliphate of Damascus 6,9

Andalusí House 16 Caña (Beer) 41

Andalusian Breakfast 41 Capuchinos Monastery 22

Antonio Gala 37 Capuchinos Square 22

Antonio Ramos Valdes 21 Caracoles (Snails) 40

Apparition of the Angel 13 Cardinal Salazar 12

Aqueduct of the Miracles 10 Carlist Army 40

Arab Houses 17 Carlist Wars 40

Arab Pastries 49 Carlos Saez de Santamaria 29

Archaeological Museum 9,35 Carlos V (King) 12,13

Archangel San Rafael 4,7,11,20,22 Cash Points (Useful Information) 56

Aristotle 32 Castanets 38,49

Arquillos Street 17 Catalina Fernandez de Cordoba 22

Arrabal 17 Cathedral Clock Tower 12

Asian Restaurants 45 Cavea 9

AVE (High Speed Train) 3,29 Central de Telefonos 27

Averroes 17,31,32 Central Pavilion (Madinat al-Zahra) 15

Azahar: Orange Blossom 26 Central Post Office 4,56

B Cesare Arbasia 12

Bad Experiences (Useful Information) 54 City Fair Fair Our Lady of Health 28, 31

Bandoleros 33 Ciudad Jardin (Nightlife) 51, 52

Bank Holidays 4 Claudius Marcellus 6,7,8

Bank of Spain 29 Coffered Ceiling Room (Viana Palace) 24

Banking Hours 4 Colomera House 27

INDEX

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Colon Gardens 27 El Sagrario Sacristy (Priego) 34

Colon Park 24,29 El Salvador y Santo Domingo de Silos Church

21

Colon Square 29 El Zoco Shopping Centre 48

Colonia Patricia 6,7,8 Electricity Supply 4

Comic Bookshop 49 Emergency & Pharmacies (Useful Information)

54

Compañia Square 21 Emergency Telephone Number 4,56

Conde Priego Square 23,28 Emirate of Cordoba 6,9,10

Confectionery 41 Enrique II (King) 13,16

Constantine 9 Etiquette (Restaurants) 43

Constantinople 6, 10 F

Construction Stages of the Mosque 10 Faculty of Philosophy and Literature 20

Cordoba Cake (Pastel Cordobes) 41 Fairground (Arenal) 28,31

Cordoba Card 4,55,56 Fan 40,49

Cordoba in the Tenth Century 15 Fandango 39

Cordoba In Three Days 30 Fast Food Restaurants 45

Cordoba Souvenirs 49 Fatimid Kingdom 14

Corredera Square 18,21,28,37, 39,42,51 Federico Garcia Lorca 28,36

Credit Cards (Useful Information) 56 Felipe II (King) 8,20,37,51

Cruz Conde Street 27,48 Fernandez Marin´s House 27

Cycling 4 Fernandinas Churches 22,23

Chapel of San Bartolome 20 Fernando III 6,11,18,20,22,23,26,33,51

Chapel of Santa Teresa 12 Fernando IV (King) 11

Charles of Ucel 21 Ferran Adria 40

Christ of the Lanterns 22 Flamenco 21,27,36,37,38,39,44,50,51

Christian Bookshop 49 Flamenco Cultural Center “Fosforito” 36

Christian Cathedral 11 Flamenco Dress 39 ,4

Christian Kings/ Catholic Monarchs 6,19,25, Flamenco Shows 38,39,42,55,

Christopher Columbus 6,18,19,46 Flamenquín 40,43,44,52

Church of San Nicolas 28 Flavors of Cordoba 40

Church of St. Paul 8 Flower Street 26

Church of the Assumption 34 Football 51,54,

D Football Stadium (Nuevo Arcangel) 20,48,51

Dailing Code 4 Fortress of the Christian Kings (Alcazar) 6,18,21,46,47,51,55,56

Daytrips 33 Fortress of the Christian Kings Show 51

Deanes Gate 12 Fountain of Health (Priego) 34

Deanes Street 26 Fountain of Santa Maria 13

Disabled Travelers (Useful Information) 54 Francisco Javier Pedrajas 34

Discovery of America 6,18,19 Fritura 39

Distances from Cordoba 3 G

Downtown (Nightlife) 52 Gallery of Leather (Viana Palace) 24

Drinks 41 Gallery of Tiles (Viana Palace) 24

E Gardens of Agriculture 28

Earl of Torralva 33 Gate of Forgiveness 13,18

Earthquake 1755 23 Ghusl 11

El Arcangel Shopping Centre 48 Giralda Tower 16,23

El Cordobes 28 Gondomar & Concepcion Streets (Shopping)

48

El Corte Ingles Department Store 28, 48 Gongora Theater 50

INDEX

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Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba (The Great Captain)

27,31,32,33 Judios Street 16,26

Gonzalo Gustioz 17 Julio Romero de Torres 21,35

Gran Capitan Cafe 29 Julio Romero de Torres Museum 21, 35

Gran Capitan Boulevard 27,28,48 Julius Caesar 7,6

Grand Palace Abbaside (Baghdad) 14 K

Grand Souk 17 King´s Fountain (Priego) 34

Grand Theatre (Gran Teatro) 29, 50 Koran 10,12

Great Colosseum (Rome) 9 L

Guadalquivir River 7,10,16,20,31,33,36,38,46,51 La Niña 19

Guerrita 28,39 La Pinta 19

Guided Tours (Useful Information) 55 La Sierra Shopping Centre 48

Guitar Festival 51 La Viñuela (Shopping) 48

H Lagartigo 28

Hadrian 8 Language (Useful Information) 55

Hammam Al-Andalus (Arab Baths) 50 Las Palmas Gate 13

Handkerchief Alley 26 Lavatories 11

Hanukkah 27 Legends about the Mosque 13

Hernan Ruiz 8,12,13,23

Hernan Ruiz II 12,13,21 Libertad Avenue 29,51,52

Herons 7 Local Currency (Useful Information) 55

High Class Hotels 45 Local Time 4

Hispania Ulterior 7 Lord of Salas 17

Holy Spirit Gate 12,13 Los Califas Bullring 28 ,37

Horse-drawn Carriages 4 Los Guillermos Toy Shop 48

Hotel Suizo 27 Low Price Hotels 47

How to get Madinat al-Zahra 16 Lucano 37

Hydraulic Museum 17, 38 Luis de Gongora 37,12

I M

Ibn Zaydun 37 Machaquito 28,37

Indian Restaurants 45 Madinat al-Zahra 11,13,14,15,16,23,36,37

Inquisition Museum 38 Madinat al-Zahra Doe 15

International Restaurants 44 Madinat al-Zahra Museum 37

Isabel I (Queen) 18,19 Maimonides 25,26,31,32,51

Istanbul 10,27 Maimonides Square 26

Italian Restaurants 44 Main Facades and Access to the Mosque 12

J Malmuerta Tower 24

Jamon de Bellota 40 Malls & Shopping Centers 48

Jamón Serrano (Spanish Ham) 40 Manolete 23,28,37

Japuta 39 ,40 Manolete Cake 41

Jarra (Beer) 41 Marcellus Theater (Rome) 9

Jerez Bank Building 29 Marco Annaeus Seneca 31

Jesus of Nazareth (Priego) 34 Marquis Bedroom (Viana Palace) 24

Jewry 6,44,19,25,39 Martin Alonso Pinzon 19

Jose Andres 40 Martinez Rücker Street 26

Juan de Mena 37 Martos Mill 16

Juan Fernandez de Cordoba 22 Maximian Herculeo 7,8

Juan Maria Arzak 40 Measurement System 4

Juan Navarro Leon 22 Mecca 10,15

Juan Pantoja de la Cruz 24 Medieval Market 21

INDEX

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Mendez de Sotomayor 20 Palace of the Marquis of Carpio 20

Mercado de la Mosca (Shopping) 48 Paseo de Córdoba Boulevard 29

Mercado del Marrubial (Shopping) 48 Paseo de la Victoria Avenue / Victoria Avenue 8,27,28,45

Mid-Budget Hotels) 46 Pastel Cordobes (Cordoba Cake) 41

Miguel de Cervantes 20 Patios Festival 31

Mihrab (sacred wall) 10 Payment options (Shopping) 47

Minaret 10,11,13 Pedro Jimenez Street 26

Miraflores Park 17 Pedro Ximenez Wine 40

Montilla-Moriles Wine 39, 40 Perez Barquero Winery 40

Moorish Courtyard (Alcazar) 19 Pero Vazquez de la Frontera 19

Morabito Mosque 29 Personal Space & Communication Skills (Useful Information)

54

Mosaic Room (Alcazar) 18 Phone Calls (Useful Information) 55

Mosaic Room (Viana Palace) 24 Plan Renfe (Nightlife) 51

Mosque-Cathedral 9 Pompey 6,7

Mountains of Subbetica 33 Pool House (Madinat al-Zahra) 15

Municipal Historical Museum (Priego) 33 Pope Innocent IV 26

Museum of Fine Arts 21, 36 Population 4

Museum of Islamic Art (Qatar) 15,37 Postal Service (Useful Information) 56

Museum of Leather Crafts 36 Postigo de la Leche 12

Museum of San Vicente 12 Pottery in Madinat al-Zahra 15

Muslim Alcazar 7,14,18,19 Prices (Restaurants) 43

Muslim Suburbs 17 Priego 33,34,49

Muzayna 11 Public Toilets (Useful Information) 55

N Q

Nazari Kingdom of Granada 33 Qibla Wall 10

Nero 31,32,37 R

Nicephorus Phocas 10 Rabo de Toro (Oxtail stew) 40 ,42

Night Cinemas (Nightlife) 52 Real Circulo de la Amistad 29

North Gate (Madinat al-Zahra) 14 Rebajas (Shopping) 47

O Regina Museum 37

Octavian Augustus 6,8 Religion 4

Official Language 4,55,57 RENFE 3,56

Old Church of Santo Domingo 21,22 Rent a Car (Useful Information) 55

Old Major Chapel 11 Reserve (Restaurants) 43

Old Town Police Station 4,56 Restaurants 43

Olive & Olive Oil 41 Ricardo Molina 37

Opening Hours 4, 56 Rodrigo de Triana 19

Opening Hours (Restaurants) 43 Roman Amphitheater 9

Opening Hours (Shopping) 47 Roman Bridge 7,17,18,20,36,46,51,54

Orange Tree Courtyard 10,11,12,13,50, Roman Circus 8

Oratory 11,12,13,15,25 Roman Civil War 6,7

Orchestra 9 Roman Theatre 9, 35

Order of Calatrava 33 Ronda de los Tejares Avenue 27,28,29,41,48,49

Ordo Equest 8 Royal Baths (Alcazar) 19

Otters 7 Royal Chapel 11

P Royal Stable Show 51

Palace Gate 13 Royal Stables 20

Palace of Maximian Herculeo/ Herculean Maximian Palace

7, 8 Ruy Velazquez 17

INDEX

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S Tapas 26,31,39, 42,43

Sabat 11 Tapas Bar 26, 42

Sacred Heart of Jesus 25 Tariq 9

Sagrario Chapel 12 Tartessian civilization 6

Saint Ildephonsus Gate 13 Turdetanos 7

Saint Stephen Gate 12 Taxes & Tips (Restaurants) 43

Sales (Shopping) 47 Taxes (Shopping) 47

Salmorejo 40 ,42,43,44 Taxis 4

San Agustin Church 23 Tendillas Square 6,8,21,27,29,39,44,46,48,51,56

San Clemente Museum 12 Tendillas Square & New Year´s Eve 27

San Francisco Church (Priego) 34 Tetrarchy 8

San Jacinto Hospital - De los Dolores Church

22 The Great Portico (Madinat al-Zahra) 14

San Lorenzo Church 23 The Hermitages 24

San Rafael Monument 20 The Legend of the Orive Palace 21

San Rafael Bridge 7,8 The Military House (Madinat al-Zahra) 14

Sangría 41 The Mosque and the construction of the Cathedral

11

Santa Catalina School (Real Escuelas Pias) 21 ,22 The Mosque Night Show 50

Santa Maria 19 The Rich Lounge of Abderraman III (Madinat al-Zahra)

15

Santa Marina Church 22 ,23 The Royal House (Madinat al-Zahra) 15

Santa Victoria Church 21 ,22 The Virgin and the Angel Statue 13

Saqqifas 10 Tiberiades Square 26

Saqunda 17 Tiberius 8

Sassanid Tradition 10 Tinto de Verano 41

Scaena 9 Tips 4,43

Sebastián Vidal 13 Titus 25

Seneca 7,16,31,35,51 Tomas Jerónimo de Pedrajas 13

Sephardic House 26 ,27, Tomas Zumalacárregui 40

Seville April Fair 39 Tortilla de Patatas (Spanish Omelet) 40

Shopping Streets 48 Tourist Offices 4,6

Siege and Conquest of Cordoba 18 Tower of Homage (Alcazar) 18,19

Sierra Morena 24,47 Tower of Homage (Almodovar) 33

Sierra Nevada (Granada) 25 Tower of Lions 18,19

Sierras Subbéticas (Zuheros) 34 Tower of the School (Almodovar) 33

Smoking & Alcohol (Useful Information) 54 Trade Union Building 29

Socibus 3,56 Train Station 6,9,28,29,46,47,48,51,55,56

Solea 39 Trajan 8

Souks 1, 17 Treasury Department Building 29

Spanish Guitar 39 Treasury of the Cathedral 12

Spanish Ham (Jamón Serrano) 40 ,41,49 Triumphal Arch 4,7,8,20

Spanish Omelet (Tortilla de patatas) 40 ,42,43 Tubo (Beer) 41

Springtime Explosion 31 Tunnel between the Mosque and Madinat al-Zahra

13

Square of the Colt 20 ,36 TV & Press (Useful Information) 54

St. Catherine Gate 13 U

St. Francis of Assisi 22 Urban Buses 4

St. Sophia 10 Useful Information 4

Synagogue 16, 25,26,56 Useful Information (Nightlife) 52

T Useful Phone Numbers 56

Taifas 33 Ustrinum 8

INDEX

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V

Vandals 6

Velazquez Bosco Street 26

Veterinary Faculty 9

Viana Palace 23,24,38

Viana Palace Museum 38

Victory Gardens 28

Villaseca Family 24

Vintage & Alternative Music 50

Visigothic Basilica 12

Visigoths 6,9,10,25

Visitor Reception Center 6 W

Water 41 What to take (Useful Information) 54

Who are they? 31

Wudu 11

Yafar House (House) 15

Z

Zoomorphic Figure (Madinat al-Zahra) 16

INDEX

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