Soaring double arches, granite columns, and intricate geometric decorations: the Cathedral-Mosque of Cordoba (also known as the Mezquita) is a serene yet awesome beauty. Not only a magnificent example of Moorish and Islamic architecture, it’s also a fascinating reflection of the city’s past and the many civilizations that once inhabited it. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, in 2007 it was included among the twelve Treasures of Spain by popular vote. It is one of the most beautiful and unique buildings in the world and one of the most visited monuments in Spain.

Built In 784 by Abd al-Rahman I on the site of a former Visigoth church, it was expanded several times over by later Muslim rulers until the Reconquista in 1236, when Cordoba once again fell under Christian rule. It was then converted into a Roman Catholic church, which led to the addition of a Renaissance cathedral nave and its unusual status as a cathedral-mosque.

During your visit, you can admire the emblematic "forest of columns", with the famous columns and two-colored horseshoe arches. Another of the most interesting places is the maqsura, which is the area reserved for the caliph in the mosques. Once there, remember to look up to see the incredible dome that crowns the room. Go to the Chapel of the Tabernacle to see the frescoes by the Italian painter César Arbasia, including the Holy Supper. Walk around the Main Chapel, the transept, and the choir stalls, and see how Gothic, Renaissance and Mannerist art alternates with elements from the Muslim period. Another point of interest is the Bell Tower, located on the site of the old minaret, which, at 175 feet high, dominates the city's skyline. The Patio de los Naranjos (Orange Tree Courtyard), built over the ablutions courtyard from the Caliphate period, is also a must-see.

The mosque-cathedral is located in the old quarter of Cordoba, close to other important monuments such as the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, or the Roman bridge. It is easy to reach the site on foot, although the city bus lines 3 and 12 are also convenient. The nearest stop is Puerta del Puente.