Cordoba

A house in old Cordoba

We explored the Jewish quarter of the old city of Cordoba. Extended families lived in most of these homes. Less than 1% of Spain is Jewish, but all Safardic Jews have the right to return. During April and May, Cordoba has multiple festivals: wine, patio, and flower festivals. We passed the Statue of Ben Maimonidies, a Jewish philosopher who wrote in Arabic script.

The columns and arches of the Mosque

Cordoba was the original capital of Arab Spain. In the 10^th century, it was the second largest city in Europe. The Mosque Cathedral of Cordoba is unique. The Mezquita, mosque, was built over a Visigoth Church in 780 then expanded 3 times over the next 200 years, it’s now 250,000 square feet. Today 80% of the building is Arabic design with 1000 columns and 2000 arches. In 1236, the Catholics defeated the Arabs and began construction of the Royal chapel within the mosque building, adding tombs and statues of human figures, something forbidden in a mosque. 

The Royal Chapel

Nearby remains the platform where the Iman used to lead his congregation. In the 16^th century, the Cathedral was built rising within and above the mosque. It is amazing how they could build this Cathedral within the original mosque.