Excursion Cordoba: archeaological set of medina azahara & arab mosque tour at Cadiz

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cordoba for a visit of two of the most important historical sites in Spain: the 8th century old Arab Mosque in the old town, and the Archaeological Set of Medina Azahara or "Beautiful Town", located at the feet of Sierra Morena Mountains, built in the 10th century by Caliph Abd-al Rahman. An enigmatic city palace shrouded in myths and legends.


At lunch, taste the delicious Cordobean specialties, like Salmorejo (tomato cream) or Flamenquin (fried meat rolls stuffed with ham) at a venue in the charming Jewish quarter.


Depart the ship and transfer to Ave station, where you will board the high-speed train for the approximately 50-minute ride to the city of Cordoba.

On arrival, drive to the Medina Azahara, the history of Medina Azahara starts with Abderraman, III, and his decision to build a city in the outskirts of Cordoba, between the years 936 and 976. Today, this is one of the most important archaeological sites in Spain and neither its structure nor its decoration has been altered with later modifications. The exhumed remains in the excavations allow us to have a very close idea of their look in the past.

Back in Cordoba, after lunch, proceed for a visit to the Mosque-Cathedral, symbol of the city, full of impressive ensembles, and the extremely rich beauty of its elements and decorations. When turned into a Christian Cathedral, even more value was added to it.

A visit to the Jewish quarter and some free will be included before returning to the train station and back to Seville.

Note

Please note: This excursion involves extensive walking over uneven cobblestone surfaces in Cordoba and stony ground at at Medina Azahara, making this tour unsuitable for guests with walking difficulties. Flat, closed-toe shoes for walking and lightweight, comfortable clothing are recommended.