Monuments & Museums in Córdoba

1. CONJUNTO MONUMENTAL MEZQUITA-CATEDRAL

The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984) is the most important monument of the Islamic West and one of the most remarkable in the world. Its history reflects the full evolution of the Umayyad style in Spain, as well as Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements from later Christian construction.
Although the building functions exclusively as a Christian temple, it is officially called the “Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba”. This naming reflects its widespread recognition, often referred to simply as the “Mosque of Córdoba” or, by locals, “La Mezquita.” During the Islamic period, it was the largest mosque in the city (and the second largest in the world).

  • Where: C. Cardenal Herrero, 1
  • Timetable: Check the website because they are always changing
  • Contacts: +34 957 470 512
    https://www.mezquita-catedraldecordoba.es/en/
  • Prices: Adults: 13.00 €
    >65 años, Carnet Joven, Students 15-26 years old: 10€
    Tower Bell 3€
    08:30-9:30 free except on Sunday and special events

2. ALCÁZAR DE LOS REYES CATÓLICOS

The Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs in Córdoba, a fortress and palace, showcases much of the city’s architectural evolution. Roman and Visigothic remains coexist with Arab elements, reflecting its historical role as a preferred residence for various rulers. After Córdoba’s conquest by Ferdinand III in 1236, the building was in ruins. Restoration began under Alfonso X and was completed during Alfonso XI’s reign. Throughout history, it has served multiple purposes, including as the seat of the Inquisition and as a prison in the early 19th century. Of the two patios, the Mudejar courtyard stands out for its beauty, with marble paving, flowing water channels, and pools that create a refreshing and calming atmosphere. The expansive gardens surrounding the complex further highlight the Alcázar’s monumental grandeur.

  • Where: C. Caballerizas Reales. s/n
  • Timetable: Just part of the gardens (the rest is closed for renovations): Tuesday-Friday from 8:15 to 20:00;
    Saturday from 9:30 to 17:30.
  • Contacts: https://alcazardelosreyescristianos.cordoba.es/?id=3/
  • Prices: Free (the gardens)

3. TEMPLO ROMANO

The Roman Temple of Córdoba, discovered in 1951 during the city hall’s expansion, is likely not the only temple that the city had but it is the most important. Located near Claudio Marcelo and Capitulares streets, it was a Corinthian temple dedicated to the imperial cult. Reconstructed by architect Félix Hernández, it highlights Córdoba’s grandeur in Roman times. Some original pieces are now displayed in the Archaeological Museum and around the city, such as the fluted column in Plaza de la Doblas.

4. MUSEO TAURINO

The Bullfighting Museum of Córdoba, housed in a 16th-century mansion in the Judería, is the only museum dedicated to bullfighting located outside a bullring. Opened in 1983 in a Mudejar-style house once linked to the Góngora family, it underwent a major renovation in 2014 to modernize its displays with interactive and educational approaches.
The museum immerses visitors in the world of bullfighting while highlighting Córdoba’s historic ties to the tradition. Visitors can also experience a multimedia simulation of a bullfight, from preparations to the finale. The museum also offers a media library, newspaper archive, and space for temporary exhibitions.

  • Where: Pl. Maimónides 
  • Timetable: Tuesday-Saturday 08:15-20:00; Sunday and holidays 08:15-14:15
  • Prices: Adults 5€ (50% off if you have the student card) 



 

5. MUSEO ARQUEOLÓGICO

The Archaeological Museum of Córdoba preserves and showcases the archaeological heritage of Córdoba and its province, from prehistory to Al-Andalus. Its rooms and courtyards display pieces from different periods. In 2011, a contemporary-style adjacent building was inaugurated, featuring modern and functional spaces, including the restored and accessible Roman theatre site. It is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.

  • Where: Plaza de Jerónimo Pàez
  • Timetable: Tuesday to Saturday 09:00-21:00; Sundays and holidays 09:00 – 15:00
  • Prices: Free for EU citizens / Others: 1.50€

6. TORRE DE LA CALAHORRA | MUSEO VIVO DE AL-ANDALUS

The Torre de la Calahorra, an iconic monument in Córdoba, houses the Living Museum of Al-Andalus. Declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1931 and granted top protection under Spanish Heritage Law in 1985, it has witnessed many historical events over the centuries. From its top, visitors can enjoy a unique panoramic view of Córdoba’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Living Museum of Al-Andalus, one of Córdoba’s most important and unique museums in the world, explores the culture of Al-Andalus from the 9th to 13th centuries through architecture, music, science, and the coexistence of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religions. Its eight illustrated rooms provide an engaging and educational historical overview, highlighting Al-Andalus’ influence on Córdoba’s development and its lasting impact today. 

  • Where: Puente Romano, s/n, Sur
  • Timetable: Monday to Saturday 10:00-14:00 / 16:30-20:30 (Till 30th of Sept);Sundays and holidays 10:00-14:00 / 16:30-20:30 
  • Prices: Adult: 4,50€ / Reduced: 3€ / Córdoba and its provinces: 2€

7. CONJUNTO ARQUEOLOGICO MEDINA AZAHARA

Medina Azahara is a magnificent archaeological site located on the outskirts of Córdoba. This complex, a palace-city built in the 10th century by Córdoba’s first caliph, Abd al-Rahman III, represents the pinnacle of Islamic art and architecture in Al-Andalus. Its name, meaning “the shining city,” reflects the grandeur and splendor of this historic site. Today, Medina Azahara offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the period.

  • Where: Ctra. A-431 Almodovar, KM 7
  • Timetable: Tuesday to Saturday 09:00-18:00; Sundays and holidays 09:00-15:00 
  • Prices: Free for EU citizens / Others: 1.50€. However you will need also to adquire a bus ticket for going to the monument for 3€

8. PALACIO DE VIANA

Although its simple white walls may seem austere from the outside, the Palacio de Viana houses Córdoba’s most important and best-preserved noble residence. Open to the public for over 40 years, Viana brings together the city’s largest concentration of patios and a palace filled with furniture, artworks, heritage, and history accumulated over five centuries.

The Palacio de Viana is not a typical museum: it does not display replicas nor was it created to exploit the fame of Córdoba’s patios. Instead, it is an authentic, lived-in home, where inherited objects are shown in their original context, reflecting the personality and tastes of the families who lived there between 1425 and 1980.

  • Where: Plz. Don Gome 2
  • Timetable: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00-19:00; Wednesday it’s free (just the patios): 14:00-17:00; Sundays and holidays 10:00-15:00 
  • Prices: Full visit: 14€ / Only Patios: 8,50€ / Only Palace: 9€ / Child <10 free

 

✍️Autor: Debora Russo from ESN Córdoba