Visit The Historic City of Córdoba in Andalucia

Originally founded by the Romans Cordoba’s strategic position at the highest navigable point on the Rio Guadalquivar meant it soon became an important port and from here there was much activity shipping Spanish olive oil, wine and wheat back to Ancient Rome. The Romans also built the famous "El Puente Romano" which is the impressive bridge that crosses the river.

The Arabs dominated Cordoba from 711-1263 a.d. and during this period built the wonderful Mezquita (mosque). They started it in 784 and by the 10th century it was the largest mosque in the world. Cordoba reverted to Christian rule in 1236 but its new rulers were so impressed with the beauty of the mosque that they decided to build their own Cathedral within its impressive rows of arches and columns and today it forms an extraordinary mosque-cathedral of outstanding and awe inspiring beauty.

As well as Moslem and Christian influences Cordoba also had a strong Jewish presence the influence of which can bee seen in "La Judera" which makes up the old part of Cordoba. This is a wonderful labyrinth of winding, narrow streets, shady flower-filled courtyards and patios and picturesque squares such as La Plaza del Potro. During early May the local residents compete in the city’s most beautiful courtyard competition by festooning their patios and any available space with a mass of flowers. They open their private courtyards to the public and they are an absolute delight to wander around.

Other sites of interest in Cordoba are the Alcazar de los Reyes whose beautiful gardens are the main reason for visiting the palace. At the south end of el Puente Romano is the Museo Vivo de Al-Andalus. This is a good point at which to start your tour of Cordoba as it gives you a good introduction to the history of the city and is one of the few places where you will find this in the language of your choice. From the top of the tower in which the museum is housed you get excellent views of the city and also two old Arab water mills one of which has a marvelously restored waterwheel.

There is also an interesting archeological museum in the city. This is housed in a renovated Renaissance palace admission is free to EU citizens.

Apart from the sites of historic interest Cordoba is also famous for it's ceramic and hand tooled leather products with a wonderful variety of goods on offer in the shops.

About the author:
Ruth Polak is the owner of www.costadelsol-vacationrentals.com, a web site specializing in holiday villas and apartments on the Costa del Sol and in Rural Andalucia. You will also find lots of information about Spain and Andalucia, in particular.