Situated along the Guadalquivir river, Cordoba is a lively town in the best Andalusian tradition, a town of Flamenco and bullfighting. The Mezquita de Cordoba, a Moorish mosque is a popular destination here.
In the 11th century, Cordoba was one of the most important capitals in Europe. People of the most different cultures and religions; Jews, Muslims and Christians were living peacefully together, and important philosophers, scientists and artists emerged from here.
Location: Andalusia, Southern Spain
The building started in 785 and took two centuries to complete to its present size of 174 x 137 meters, making it the second biggest and second in importance after the Mecca mosque.
What makes the Mezquita so special is that in the very mosque a Christian mass takes place. The area surrounding the mosque is known as Juderia, since at one time jews were the trusted residents here. For a virtual tour of the mosque check this, however a visit there will give you a real feel of the region.
It was as if God, or Allah, were singling someone out for special duties. Catholic residents of Cordoba talk of “going to mass at the mosque”(which was built over what had been a Visigoth church and, before that, a Roman temple).
Cordoba: This city is one of the most popular attractions of Spain.
Most beautiful way of enter to the city is over the ancient bridge of the Guadalquivir, entering the old city through the Puerta de Almodovar. Accomodations remain expensive reservation of hotels should be made in advance.
The houses of Cordoba have patio’s full of flowers, so it would be good to time you visit to Mezquita during May, during the fiesta, when the owners open their patios and you can admire a riot of flowers.
Source: Telegraph
