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luni, 21 ianuarie 2019

Winter destinations: Cordoba, the soul of Andalusia

Cordoba lays in the very heart of Andalusia (Spain) and is the perfect destination for a holiday during the long winter months, thanks to the friendly weather and beautiful surroundings. Here are the main places you should visit when in Cordoba, as I discovered it three years ago, when I last visited this beautiful city. 




Cordoba has a great historical importance, as it once was the capital of the Roman province Baetica, and, later, of Córdoba caliphate. The town developed greatly during the Moorish ruling, starting with the year 711, thus becoming one of the most important cities in Europe of those times.




Also, during the Moorish ruling, in the year 785, it begun the construction of Mezquita mosque (https://mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es/en/), the most visited building in Cordoba and the town's main attraction. The mosque has been subsequently extended and became a cathedral in the year 1236.  What makes this construction unique is the fact that is keeps Muslim elements (corresponding to mosques) alongside features only met in Catholic cathedrals, as well as the 850 white and red columns decorating its facade.



As a consequence of their great historical and architectural importance, Mezquita and the historical quarter surrounding it became UNESCO Heritage Sites in 1984.





Near Mezquita lays Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos (The Palace of Christian Kings) (https://www.artencordoba.com/alcazar-reyes-cristianos/horarios-informacion-turistica.html), with its Lions' Tour, from where you'll be able to admire a spectacular view over Guadalquivir river crossing the city.





Once in Cordoba, do not miss Plaza de la Corredera, the ideal place to relax and try the local tapas and wines. This public square was once a bull fights arena, but today you'll only encounter taverns and restaurants specialized in Spanish cuisine. 



If you want to have a nice local dinner, Taberna Luque (https://sevilla.abc.es/gurme/bares-y-restaurantes-cordoba/cordoba/taberna-luque-3/), placed in Cordoba's historical center, is the perfect choice. For accommodation close to the heart of the city, Eurostars Palace Hotel (https://www.eurostarshotels.co.uk/eurostars-palace.html) is also the right choice.




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