Cordoba’s Incredible Mezquita (in photos)
We’ve visited the Mezquita several times now, it is for us the most spectacular building in Spain. The Mezquita is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the 12 Treasures of Spain, and one of the Top 3 attractions in Andalusia (along with the Alhambra in Granada and the Real Alcazar in Seville). It is also one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in Spain.
The History of Córdoba’s Mezquita
When the Moors conquered Spain in the 8th century, they decided to build a mosque. It took 200 years to complete the Mosque in its present form. In 1236, when Christian forces took Cordoba during the Reconquista, they converted part of the Mosque into a Cathedral. So although it is now officially the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, it is an incredible mix of Christian and Moorish styles.
The site has been controversial. Muslims have asked to be able to pray at the Mezquita and have been refused. It’s led to fights and injuries. The church and the city of Cordoba have also argued about the name of the building. It’s why the site has different names. Besides the official “Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption” it is commonly known as the “Mezquita de Cordoba” (Cordoba Mosque), the “Cordoba Cathedral”, or the “Cordoba Mosque Cathedral” (the agreed upon name after the dispute between the city and church). I’ve stuck to simply calling it the Mezquita which is what most locals call the site.
See our video and photos of the Mezquita below.
Suddenly, in the middle of the Mezquita, you find yourself in a cathedral. When the Catholics reconquered Spain in 1236 they decided to build it right here.
But for us it’s the mosque, not the cathedral, that makes the Mezquita stand out. A few more images
When you’re done visiting the interior of the Mezquita (give yourself about an hour and a half – it is one of the world’s largest mosques) then make sure to visit the bell tower for an overhead view of the Mezquita.
Note: Monday – Saturday from 8:30 – 9:30 am the Mezquita is free. Otherwise it costs 13 Euros/person).
The Official site of the Mezquita here.
Related: Highlights of a day trip to Córdoba (Spain)
Related: Travel Guide to the Alhambra (Granada)
Related: The Best Moorish Sites in Spain
You’re right times are changing, unfortunately not for the best.
All the best, we’re here if you decide to write something.
Take care and stay safe
Hi Joseph. Yes, this is still a work in progress (bbqboy.net is still our main blog) but I’m slowly building in more food and drink articles, especially wine. I see you have a villa outside Antequera. Would you ever be interested in contributing a guide to Antequera? I think it would interest readers. We’d of course mention your villa.