Córdoba

Why visit Córdoba

Córdoba is the heart of inland Andalucía, a province that runs from the acorn-rich dehesa of Los Pedroches in the north, over the dark ridges of Sierra Morena and across the broad Guadalquivir valley, to the limestone sierras of the Subbética in the south. Its capital was once the seat of the Caliphate of al-Andalus, and Roman, Moorish, Jewish and Christian heritage runs through the whole province, from castles on the old frontier to Baroque churches in country towns. In between lie vineyards, wheat fields and seemingly endless olive groves. With fast trains to Madrid, Seville and Málaga, it suits culture lovers, walkers and food and wine travellers alike.

Main attractions in Córdoba

The capital’s Mosque-Cathedral and the caliphal city of Medina Azahara, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are the obvious starting point, but the province rewards those who venture further. Priego de Córdoba is a showcase of Baroque art, Zuheros and Iznájar rank among Andalucía’s most striking white villages, and the castle of Almodóvar del Río towers over the Guadalquivir. Walkers and cyclists head for the Sierras Subbéticas Geopark and the Vía Verde del Aceite, while the Hornachuelos and Cardeña y Montoro natural parks are prime territory for vultures, deer and, with luck, the Iberian lynx. Montilla’s bodegas pour fino and Pedro Ximénez, Los Pedroches cures acorn-fed ham, and May’s Patios Festival is the highlight of the calendar. Salmorejo, flamenquín and several olive oil designations of origin complete the picture.

Good to know before you go

Book Mosque-Cathedral and Medina Azahara tickets ahead in spring, and in summer plan sightseeing for the mornings and evenings.