One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, Córdoba enjoys the privilege of having the most World Heritage Sites to date UNESCO than any other city in the world.
Conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, impressive Córdoba maintains a deep connection to its history, as well as a vibrancy created by links with Judaism, Christianity and Islam. While walking around the city, the visitor can perceive the coexistence of different values and cultures for many centuries.
Some of the best places to discover this side of Córdoba are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In fact, with a total of three sites—and one UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage site—Córdoba has more World Heritage sites than any other city in the world. The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, the Medina Azahara, the historic center of the city and the Festival of the Courts of Córdoba are some of the most famous attractions, while at the same time the traveler can discover many other “gems” in the city, such as the imposing Roman bridge and the arab baths.
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites found in Córdoba
The cathedral
If you visit the city, the Mosque-Cathedral is a must stop. Imagine an original mosque converted into a Catholic cathedral within the original Muslim building. During your tour, you will discover how it has changed over the centuries and how it reflects the culture and people of each era. Be sure to purchase tickets online before your trip to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique combination of history and culture.
The historic center of Córdoba
Córdoba’s historic center is a place full of little streets to explore, where you’ll find courtyards full of flowers, charming squares and excellent bars and restaurants. The mosque-cathedral is certainly the most famous attraction in this part of the city, but UNESCO notes that there are also “hundreds of buildings of cultural and historical importance” – such as the synagogue in the Judería (Jewish quarter), traditional houses built around courtyards and the Roman bridge , which crosses the Guadalquivir River.
Medina Azahara
Built in the mid-10th century by the Umayyad dynasty, Medina Azahara is a magnificent city that was rediscovered in the early 20th century after being forgotten for nearly 1,000 years. Today it is an archaeological site and an impressive example of ancient urban infrastructure – roads, water systems and buildings – and the western Islamic civilization of Al-Andalus. It is about five miles outside the city center and can be reached by bus or car.
The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Monument in Córdoba
Every May, Cordoba String Festival (Fiesta de los Patios) brings flowers, colors and seductive aromas to the historic center of the city. Listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, the 12-day festival includes a yard competition – where residents decorate their yards with flower beds and pots, some of which hang on the walls – songs, dances, wine and food.
