Monuments in Cordoba
World Heritage Site:
Fortress of the Christian Monarchs – is the residence of Isabella and Ferdinand, the Catholic Monarchs who ruled this fortress-palace for 8 years. Originally this palace was intended to be the residence of caliphs of Cordoba and then it became the Christian Monarchs’ palace. Later on it was used as inquisition headquarters, civil prison and lastly military prison. This palace had a number of beautiful gardens out of which the garden, Avenue of the Monarchs, displayed the statues of all the monarchs connected with this palace. In 1931, this was declared as a historical monument. UNESCO declared this as a world heritage site in 1994.
Other Monuments
1.Cordoba City Walls – were constructed in the 10th century and were meant for defending the town. However only some stretch of the walls as well as some entrances still remain. The 10th century Seville gateway and the 16th century gateways Jews Gate and Puente Gate next to the cathedral still exist. The arches Belén and Portillo also remain.
2.Cordoba Grand Theatre – is a 19th century theatre and the architect was Amadeo Rodríguez. This opened on 13th April 1873. It underwent lots of modifications in its layout up to 1970 when it was closed. The building owners were keen to demolish the building but in 1982, the council of Cordoba took over and declared this as an artistic and historic interest. This has been redesigned/ renovated and at present it is used as a theatre for conducting programs of music, dance and opera.
3.Great Mosque of Cordoba – is the 8th century mosque of renaissance period and it has inherited a number of architectural styles over many centuries. The mosque is situated in the heart of the city and represents a beautiful piece of Muslim art in Spain. This was constructed in the year 785 on the ruins of the church St. Vincent,an old Visigoth church. In 1523, after the Christian conquest, a cathedral was built inside. The decoration of interiors has been done with marble and mosaics.
4.Roman Temple – was built in the first century and this is a temple of mythological Gods. You can see the remains of this temple adjacent to the town hall. This temple was dedicated to the mythological Gods and from the ruins you can see the huge size of this building. It is situated in the arcaded square center.
5.San Rafael Triumphal Monument – is dedicated to the patron saint of Cordoba and was built in the 18th century. Many monuments in this town are dedicated to San Rafael but the most important of them are those situated adjacent to the Triumphal arch and the mosque. This was created as a thanksgiving to the patron saint for having saved the city from the earthquake. The monument is decorated with the fruits and animals of Cordoba.
In addition there are other monuments – 15th century Malmuerta Tower, 14th century Calahorra Tower, 14th century Synagogue, 14th century San Hipólito Royal Collegiate Church, Roman Bridge and Gate, 15th century Potro Inn, etc.