Many travelers have previously thought that Córdoba was a city that was merely a stop on the train on the way to Sevilla; however, Córdoba has centuries of fascinating history, spectacular cuisine, remarkable architecture, and truly embodies the essence of Andalucía’s unique culture. When considering taking a tour of Spain, it is essential to pay Córdoba a visit!
One of the most famous cultural sites in Spain is the Mezquita de Córdoba. Mezquita is the word in Spanish for mosque, yet, this particular architectural structure in Córdoba has once been a cathedral and synagogue as well over the centuries. It is a representation of a period of time in Córdoba where Christianity, Judaism, and Muslim religions coexisted for close to 800 years. Throughout this period, there were many scientific inventions related to irrigation and engineering as well as advances in medicine. Even today, Córdoba possesses a reputation of being strong in innovation.
Due to the unique history of Córdoba, the cultural presence of Moors combined with the Sephardic Jewish residents, Roman period of history, and the influence of the Catholic Church can be seen in every corner of the city down to every unique door, azulejo (traditional Spanish tile), bridge, plaza, or fountain. The combination of cultures is life here. In fact, Córdoba has one of the largest historic neighborhoods in Europe as a result of this fascinating fusion of cultures that have been a part of the city’s identity for centuries.
Within Córdoba’s historic center, there is a unique part of the city called the Judería where the history of Spain’s Sephardic Jewish population remains. The Sephardic Jewish population was forced to leave or convert to Catholicism during the Spanish Inquisition starting in 1492, yet there is a piece of Córdoba with a museum of the remains of the local synagogue. Across the way, is an entire Sephardic Jewish cultural museum called Casa Sefarad where visitors can learn about the famous Sephardic Jewish individuals who resided in the city and what incredible contributions they made to local society. One such individual who has a statue in the Judería is Maimonides, who is credited with making several sensational advancements in medicine. Nearby, it is possible to try Sephardic tapas (small plate dishes) that are still famous locally. One such example is berenjenas con miel (eggplant with honey) that has survived in the city even after the departure of the Sephardic Jewish population during the Spanish Inquisition.
Córdoba is filled with several traditional small restaurants and theatres to listen to Flamenco music and see Flamenco dance performances. A common misconception is that Flamenco is from all over Spain; however, Flamenco is from the region of Andalucía where Córdoba is located. Flamenco is life in this part of Spain where you will hear locals singing the music while they work with incredible vocal talent as well as see young students studying their Spanish guitar notes in the small historic streets. Seeing Flamenco in this part of Spain is an unforgettable experience that often comes with a sensational glass of locally produced vino tinto (red wine) or Sangria (a red wine-based beverage with fruits providing a unique flavor).
Córdoba is at the heart of Spain’s olive oil producing region. Due to the Roman influence, olive trees were planted locally and have been growing ever since. The quality of the olive oil in Córdoba even outshines Italian olive oil production. In the local cuisine, olive oil is a regular ingredient, and due to the quality, it enhances the sensational flavors of every dish. While visiting Córdoba, it is possible for visitors to learn about the different qualities of olive oil and sample them with a local wine pairing experience.
Córdoba is a city with a fascinating past and vibrant culture that is a must see on any tour of Spain. Olde Ipswich Tours is traveling to Córdoba on our upcoming tour to Andalusia and Extremadura in May that visits several sensational cities in Southern and Western Spain. To learn more about our upcoming tour, click here.
This post was written by: Jacquelyn García Vadnais
Business & Travel Manager at Olde Ipswich Tours