Alcázar of Córdoba, Spain
The history behind the walls
Within the ancient city of Córdoba, there is just so much history at your feet; it’s difficult to know where to start. Just wandering the whitewashed lanes is a fantastic experience in itself.
However, a visit to the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos goes without saying, climbing the towers gives you some amazing views of the historical city, along with the Guadalquivir River and the wonderful Roman Bridge that straddles it.
A helpful guide
Ahhh the call of Andalucía, I love nothing more than planning a trip and so often I use the DK Eyewitness books. I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our southern Spanish road trips, now you can grab the revised copy.
The Moors
The high walled Alcázar itself is almost a perfect square, with striking towers on three of its four corners. Within the walls, you’ll find a very peaceful Mudejar courtyard still in its classic style, but this is just a taster to the elegant gardens that follow.
Did you know?
The Alcázar of Córdoba forms part of the Historic Centre of Córdoba that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984
Spanish Inquisition
Although today this charming Alcázar greets visitors welcomingly, this fortification was once used to hold tribunals for the Spanish Inquisition, and sections of the Alcázar were converted into cells for its prisoners.
Why not?
Start creating your own Spanish adventure and discover its historical towns and cities for yourself, easyJet & British Airways are just a couple of options.
Royal Stables
As you continue around the ramparts you are greeted with a birds-eye view of the Royal Stables below; you may even catch a peek at the Andalusian horses being trained.
Elegance
One of the highlights for me was walking from the castle into its magnificent gardens. The terraced pools and formal planting that layout before you were quite unexpected.
The stylish upper pool, now home to shoals fish, appears to have once been used as a bathing pool, with steps leading into it. I don’t think you would get a private moment here today.
As you step down to the lower pools and among the fountains, it really does feel like you are in a secluded oasis, if you didn’t venture into the Alcázar, you would never know it was here.
Tempted to?
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Avenue of the Kings
Meandering off, and strolling along the tree-lined avenues, it isn’t too difficult to find a peaceful corner to sit and relax and admire the surroundings, in particular, the mosaic pools.
Have You?
Visited the historical Alcázar of Córdoba, did you catch a glimpse of horses training the in the Royal Stables?
Inspired to visit Córdoba?
What is your favourite location within the ancient walls? Take a look at our post on Córdoba’s Mezquita, this place is amazing.
Have you seen our 12 Good excuses to visit the ancient city of Córdoba?
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