Córdoba

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Córdoba developed as one of medieval Europe’s great Islamic cities and retains a dense historic centre beside the Guadalquivir River. Its mosque-cathedral contains a vast forest of arches within a later Christian structure, while Jewish, Roman and Islamic sites stand nearby. Whitewashed houses and enclosed patios shape the surrounding streets.

The main monuments are close together, but smaller courtyards and residential lanes reveal much of the city’s character. Summer heat can be severe, making mornings and evenings especially valuable. Food, gardens and river walks add balance to a visit that might otherwise focus too narrowly on architecture.