Situated along the Guadalquivir river, Cordoba is another of the southern cities with its typical Andalusian atmosphere. Cordoba is clearly divided in two by an - interrupted - Arabian wall. At one side the strait and wide avenues of the XXth century, at the other side the labyrinth of winding narrow alleys, a lot of them dead end. The most spectacular way to enter Cordoba is crossing the ancient bridge over the Guadalquivir, entering the old city through the Puerta de Almodovar. Most spectacular is the mosque, the Mezquita de Cordoba (see below).
Favourite spots:
The Mezquita de Cordoba. 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 cathedral is constructed. I won't go into all its wonders; if you visit the Mezquita take a guided tour! It's really worth while.
What's really great:
Wandering through the alleys old city. Many of houses have their typical Andalusian patio full of flowers. If you are in Cordoba in May during the fiestas the owners open their patios, so you can admire them. It is said that Cordoba has the most beautiful women of Spain. I fully agree!
Accommodations:
The hotels around the Mezquita are good but expensive. You'll find cheaper ones in the new city. One I like is Hotel Boston, situated in the new city's centre square.
Hangouts:
Many in the old city as well as the newer part of town.
Restaurants:
Famous is El Caballo Rojo (the Red Horse) situated in front of the Mezquita. The rabo de toro (bull's tail) is delicious, but the restaurant is not cheap!
In the old city there are many other nice restaurants with big patios and good food for a fair price.
And, of course, the tapas bars.
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