My stay in Cordoba was literally just 24 hours and I have to say, it was too damn short!
I arrived mid-morning by train from Seville, found a bus to the old town, and dragged my (still noisy) suitcase across yet more cobbles to reach my hotel. What a location – literally across the road from the Mezquita, of which, it turned out, I had a prime view from the window of my little bedroom!
I dumped my luggage and headed off to explore the labyrinth of narrow streets in the old town. I found my way to the Alcazar (sadly closed for renovations), the Royal stables, the synagogue, and Calle de Flores (flower street), before stopping for a cold drink ahead of my afternoon visit to the Mezquita-Cathedral.
I had been really looking forward to this visit, but my anticipation paled into insignificance when I actually stepped into the building. It would not be an understatement to say that it took my breath away. The way the Islamic mosque arches and Catholic vaulted ceilings and altars sit together under one roof is at the same time awe-inspiring and spiritually very moving. In today’s world of wars and prejudices based in religion, it was incredible to see these two cultures in one magnificent building. I wandered in there for over an hour, reluctant to leave. Absolutely spellbinding.
When I did leave, I spent some time in the orange-tree gardens before buying a ticket to ascend the bell tower. It was quite a climb, but again the reward was spectacular views (including one of my hotel bedroom window!)
I made my way back to the hotel to rest a while before heading out for an evening stroll on the Puente Romano in beautiful evening sunshine, then dinner (local tapas of course, including salmorejo, a cold cream of tomato soup) and wine, another walk to let my food go down and bed.
The next morning, I checked out of my hotel before 9, and got some breakfast in a nearby cafe. Feeling nourished (and with the obligatory two cups of coffee inside me), I went on a visit to the Caliph’s baths (a bit like the Roman baths in Bath, though significantly smaller), and then spent a very pleasant hour or so following the Ruta des Patios – a trail which takes you to visit courtyards filled with floral displays, which were stunning.
A well-deserved cold drink at the cafe next to my hotel, I then collected my bags and headed back to the train station for my onward journey to Malaga and to meet up with my kids.
Cordoba, you were wonderful and I will be back ❤️
50shadesofbrave 