mezquita-catedral, in the historical centre of Córdoba, spain

The Historic Centre of Córdoba in 28 Pictures

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by

Priyanka Dalal
in ,

contact me at inspiritualityblog(@)gmail(.)com for personalized pilgrimage planning for a powerful spiritual experience

I found my way to Córdoba in Andalucia, Spain because it was a good base for hiking and cycling in the countryside. I earlier wrote about these various nearby trails one can explore. But something needed to be said for the historic centre of Córdoba. This old town area is a UNESCO heritage site and quite understandably so. It has an intriguing mingling of Arab, Christian, Roman and what not cultures over the years.

However, I have no clue about the European history beyond the two world wars. After visiting this city, I understand that at some point Arabs and Muslim religion dominated a large part of Europe. And Córdoba was a hot centre in those times. Though now it is only a small tourist town. Later Christian folks managed to retake this area and that is why in the middle of the historic centre we find a mosque-cathedral. It was a grand mosque during the Arab reign and then it got converted into a grand cathedral during the Christian reign.

Lot of food for thought for me because India is rife with converted religious places. And there is a lot of communal tension and enmity over it. It was good to see that the same has happened in Europe and how they are tackling it. And in a bit more low key manner, this communal tension exists there too.

So, enjoy these 28 photos. And if you want to know more about its history, feel free to read up more on it. I had gone there only for my cycling adventures :)

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In the above photograph you may have noticed a different style of architecture. It’s San Rafael Arcangel pillar, Roman style. Cordoba also has a lot of Roman heritage structures. The Roman bridge was one of my favourites, and I think you will know why in the below photographs :)

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There are a *few* spaces that feel contemporary in this historic centre of Cordoba. Cafes, visitor centers, building art, souvenirs shops and the like. Though they are probably not that contemporary, it just feels that way compared to literally, everywhere else. ;)
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And let’s not forget the doors…

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This last door seems a little different doesn’t it? Well, what’s new in the historic centre of Cordoba, which is filled with a hodgepodge of varied architectural and ethnic styles. This door is one of the entrances to the famous Mezquita-Cathedral – the mosque and cathedral of Cordoba.

Curious about why it is a Mosque and a Cathedral? Well, take a history class. :D

Or read my blog on the heritage town of Hampi in Southern India.

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