Córdoba’s majestic mosque ("mezquita" in Spanish) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city’s main attraction. It is one of the world’s greatest works of Islamic architecture as well as a symbol of the sophisticated Islamic culture that flourished in Córdoba when it was once the centre of Western Islam.
The construction of the mosque started in 785 AD, when Córdoba was established as the capital of Al-Andalus. Over the centuries numerous new additions were made to the original building.
In 1236, Cordoba was retaken by the Christian King from Castile and the mosque was converted into a church. Finally, in the 16th century, a massive cathedral was built in the center of the Mosque.
Mezquita de Córdoba seen from the Bell Tower
© ESPAÑA GUIDE
What makes the mezquita truly special is that it was never destroyed by the conquering Christian forces but instead was repurposed and added on to, leaving behind centuries of history in a single building.
Apart from the interior of the mosque itself, its courtyard, known as the Patio de los Naranjos (The Patio of the Orange trees), is always free to visit. Inside, you can visit the 17th century Bell Tower which was built over the remains of the mosque’s minaret. With its height of 54m (177ft), it offers some of the best views of the city.