Best of Cordoba
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Port
Malaga, Spain
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$219.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 8½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
The mighty Roman Empire established Cordoba around the time it became clear that inland-Andalusia could be reached by way of the navigable Guadalquivir River. Today, only three of the thirteen gates of the city's original ancient Roman walls are still standing. Despite its auspicious start, Cordoba did not reach its prime until the 10th century AD, during Muslim
domination in Iberia. Draped in architectural splendor, Cordoba became one of the world's political, cultural and economic leaders.
Because of its strategic importance, Cordoba seemed the logical place to build a vast mosque -- a primer for those who intended to make the haj to Mecca. Astonishingly, when Catholicism rose to overthrow the power of Islam, rather than destroying the mosque, the Catholic Church simply built a cathedral inside it. So today, you will enter a forest of columns that belong to the mosque and discover in their midst a Catholic cathedral -- this is a stunning and bizarre piece of art and architecture, and its impact is not to be missed.
Complete your time in Cordoba with a walking tour through the Jewish Quarter, where the narrow and winding streets hide many important and traditional buildings. Your guide will point out the Mudejar Synagogue and the quarter's many references to water -- Arabian engineering was crucial for developing the area's supply.
Lunch is served at a local restaurant before you return to Málaga .
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tour does not operate on Sundays and holidays. The Synagogue is closed on Mondays; more time will be spent at other venues, or additional free time will be allowed for independent exploration. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.