Córdoba • Spanish in Andalusia

The culture of Islam, Judaism and Christianity are intertwined in the history and architecture of Córdoba. The symbol of the capital is Mezquita, a mosque with a thousand columns connected by colorful arches, which retained its shape under Spanish rule but changed its purpose and became a cathedral. The city is also famous for its narrow streets and internal patios covered in flowers.

Spanish while travelling

Mezquita is a unique architectural mix in which the turbulent history of the region has been recorded. The Gothic cathedral built on the basis of a monumental mosque has been enriched with Baroque ornaments over the centuries. The Old Town of Córdoba's capital city is full of Gothic churches and Baroque buildings; the Jewish Quarter and the ruins of the Arabic Medina Azahara palace complex, located just a few kilometres away from the city, are also worth a visit.

Spanish on the move

The terrain of Córdoba is very diverse, which is why hang-gliding and paragliding, cycling and climbing are so popular. The Guadalquivir River flows through the province, offering canoeing trips.

Spanish through nature

The northern part of the province is occupied by the Sierra Morena mountain range. The Guadalquivir river running through Córdoba creates a natural corridor for many species of animals and birds, and the pastures around the Sierra Morena Mountains, declared a Biosphere Reserve, provide shelter for game, foxes, lynxes and wildcats.

Spanish through cuisine

A nutritious cold soup called salmorejo, served with eggs or Iberian ham, and rabo de toro (bull’s tail) are Córdoba's most famous dishes. Just like in architecture, Arab influence has left a deep mark on the province's cuisine: local confectionery is based on traditional Arab recipes.

Spanish through culture

The capital of the province has the highest number of jewellers in all of Spain. Velvet embroidery and artisan leather goods are also typical for Córdoba. Richly ornamented paintings are made of coloured leather on a silver background.