Visit Cordoba Old City and you’ll be in one of the largest historical centers in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of palatial buildings and monuments that preserves the legacies of the cultures that have lived here. Explore the vast interior of an 8th-century mosque, walk across a Roman bridge and tour the ancient lanes of the Jewish quarter.
The old city's biggest draw is the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. This outstanding example of Islamic architecture was once the center of Western Islam. Marvel at the forest of red and white columns in the prayer hall. Tour the 16th-century renaissance cathedral in the center of the complex and climb the steps of the 177-feet (54-meter) bell tower.
Alongside the western walls of the Mosque-Cathedral is the Episcopal Palace, a 15th-century building that houses a museum of religious art. After your visit take a few footsteps south to walk over the Roman bridge that spans the Guadalquivir River. This ancient structure featured in season five of the global TV hit Game of Thrones as the Long Bridge of Volantis.
At the end of this 16-arched pedestrianized crossing is the medieval Tower of the Calahorra. Inside is a museum dedicated to the peaceful coexistence of Jews, Muslims and Christians in Cordoba during the 9th and 10th centuries.
Stroll back across the bridge to discover more of the old city's buildings and monuments. Tour the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, a 14th-century palace fortress with beautiful gardens filled with water features. About a 5-minute walk away are the remains of the Caliphal Baths, an Arabic bathhouse from the 10th century.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Jewish quarter, an atmospheric place of medieval streets with a 14th-century synagogue.
At the end of your sightseeing trip, enjoy a meal in one of the old city's bars or restaurants.
The Old City is easy to get to from other parts of Cordoba by public transportation and taxi. If you prefer to drive, there is parking available for a fee along the streets or in garages.
