To visit the Córdoba Cathedral Mosque, the first thing to do is ensure you purchase your tickets in advance. As this is one of the most visited attractions in Spain , it’s not worth leaving to buy on the day and wasting time queuing or running the risk of not getting tickets.
But, before buying, you need to decide whether you are going to explore the place on your own or take a guided tour, as there are several tour and excursion options for the Córdoba Mosque.
On the day of the visit, you must dress appropriately for a religious place, respect the visiting rules and, most importantly, make the most of the tour.
Is it worth taking a guided tour of the Córdoba Cathedral Mosque?
Generally speaking, yes .
It is a place full of interesting details that are worth knowing in more depth. On a guided tour of the Córdoba Cathedral Mosque, you will have detailed and insider information about the entire history and significance of this place, which is considered one of the most important and fascinating monuments in Spain.
During a guided tour, you will learn everything about the building, all the characteristics of its different architectural styles and much more. Additionally, a professional guide can also help you avoid queues, enter areas that are not always accessible to the general public, making the most of your visit.
A good option is the skip-the-line Mosque-Cathedral tour which, in addition to saving time by avoiding queues, also includes entry to the Fernandina Churches. This tour lasts 75 minutes, has a licensed guide and is offered in English, Spanish and French.
What to see at the Córdoba Cathedral Mosque?
The Cathedral Mosque of Córdoba is an architectural masterpiece. A stunning building full of history. There are many highlights to be enjoyed at the location. Let’s tell you a little more about the main ones:
Horseshoe arches
The horseshoe arches are one of the mosque’s striking features and one of the most recognizable elements of Islamic architecture. The Córdoba Cathedral Mosque has more than 800 of these arches, which provide a very particular sensation as you walk through the space.
The famous, and impressively numerous, horseshoe arches inside the Mosque
This impressive and beautiful feature alone is worth a visit to the Mosque.
Mihrab
The mihrab is a prayer space that indicates the direction of Mecca. It has a beautiful decoration with tiles, mosaics and inscriptions from the Quran.
Maqsura
The maqsura is a closed area reserved for the caliph and his guests during prayer. Its decoration has very elaborate geometric patterns and ornamentations.
Renaissance nave
The nave (central part) of the cathedral was added to the mosque building in the 16th century and is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture. It has high ceilings, ornate chapels and sculptures that attract attention.
Bell Tower
The Bell Tower was originally built to be a minaret, the highest point of the mosque, from where calls to prayer are made. It was later converted into a bell tower and today visitors can climb to the top and have a panoramic view of the city.
Orange trees patio
The orange tree courtyard is a haven of tranquility within the Cathedral Mosque complex. It is filled with fragrant orange trees, some fountains and shady areas that can serve as resting spaces.
Fernandina Churches
The Fernandina Churches are in the historic center of the city, a short walk from the Cathedral Mosque. It is a group of medieval churches built during the 12th century, during the reign of Fernando III. They have a unique architecture and historical significance, as they were built during the Reconquista period.
The additional ticket for the Route of Churches, offered by the mosque’s ticket office (on site or online), allows you to visit eight of these temples, which still maintain their liturgical function. It is an interesting tour especially for those who enjoy medieval architecture and history.
History of the Córdoba Cathedral Mosque
The Cordoba Cathedral Mosque was built as a mosque in the year 784, when Cordoba was the capital of the Muslim-controlled region of al-Andalus. The story told by Muslim writers says that there was a Hispano-Roman basilica at the site and that the Muslim conquerors recovered it and transformed it into a mosque to hold services.
The site underwent several expansions and was once the second largest mosque in the world, occupying an area of more than 23 thousand square meters, but later lost its position.
In 1238, the city of Córdoba was conquered by Christians and the mosque was converted into a cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. However, the basilica with Renaissance architecture, with crucifix, was only built in 1523.