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Visit Córdoba
Discover the Charm of San Basilio in Córdoba
The San Basilio neighborhood, also known as the Alcázar Viejo, is dominated by the medieval Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs and its terraced gardens. Visitors stroll through the area’s flower-filled tiled courtyards, filled with blue flowerpots and ornamental plants. This is where the city’s most typical and famous patios are located, with streets and balconies adorned with flowers, especially beautiful in spring.
A Neighborhood with History and Iconic Patios
Route through the Patios of San Basilio
We suggest a route through the most beautiful patios in our city, especially those right next to your apartment. Since 1921, the famous Festival of the Patios of Córdoba has glorified this characteristic feature of Córdoba. The boundaries of the patios are marked by the designations of corral, “patinete” or patio de luces, huerto, parque, or jardín. The so-called Patios of Córdoba are found mainly in San Basilio, Santa Marina, San Lorenzo, La Magdalena, and the Jewish Quarter, as well as in the Viana Palace, which houses twelve patios.
Origin of the Patios of Córdoba
The Córdoba patio is a characteristic feature of the Andalusian city of Córdoba, Spain, and since 1921, it has been magnified by the famous Festival of the Patios of Córdoba, declared a World Heritage Site in 2012. Patios are an essential part of homes, from the patio of the Mosque-Cathedral to the smallest patios, each with its own personality and style. The boundaries between patios and other areas such as corrals, “patinetes,” orchards, parks, or gardens are marked by different designations.
The Patios of Córdoba are mainly found in the San Basilio, Santa Marina, San Lorenzo, and Magdalena neighborhoods, as well as in the city’s Jewish Quarter. Lesser-known areas such as the Santiago, San Pedro, and Realejo neighborhoods are also home to these charming spots. The Viana Palace is another highlight, with its twelve patios that showcase the beauty and diversity of this Cordoban tradition.
We offer you a list of monuments to visit in our city.
Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: A place where Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Mudejar styles merge into a unique monument. Its Patio de los Naranjos welcomes you with its beauty.
Medina-Azahara: This archaeological site, located 8 kilometers from the city center, was the center of power of the Caliphate of Córdoba. The Salón Rico (Rich Hall) is a prominent site that showcases the beauty of this ancient city.
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos (Christian Monarchs’ Alcazar): A historic fortress where the Catholic Monarchs spent several years during the campaign against the Kingdom of Granada. It was also the place where Christopher Columbus requested assistance for his voyage to America.
Roman Bridge: One of the most beautiful bridges in Spain and a symbol of Córdoba. It forms part of a classic image of the city, along with the Guadalquivir River and the Mosque-Cathedral in the background.
Plaza de la Corredera: The nerve center and one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, perfect for enjoying the local cuisine.
La Judería: A network of narrow, winding streets that make up Córdoba’s charming Judería. Perfect for wandering around its nooks and crannies.
Calleja de las Flores: A narrow, often photographed street flanked by white buildings and flowerbeds. It offers an iconic view of the minaret of the Mosque-Cathedral.
Plaza de Capuchinos (Cristo de los Faroles): A magical spot with the famous Cristo de los Faroles and the church of the Capuchin Fathers convent.
Torre de la Calahorra: A defensive tower of Moorish origin that offers panoramic views of the Roman Bridge and the Mosque-Cathedral.
La Muralla y sus Puertas: Remnants of the wall that surrounded the city, now converted into pleasant walkways decorated with fountains and flowers.
Palacio de Viana: A spectacular palace with 12 courtyards and a beautiful garden that showcases Córdoba’s historical and cultural richness.
Iglesia de Santa Marina: One of the eight Fernandina churches that showcase the city’s legacy after the reconquest. The Iglesia de Santa Marina, in Plaza del Conde de Priego, is an iconic landmark. These are just a few of the places you can’t miss when visiting Córdoba. Each offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of this Andalusian city.
Get to know the routes of the patios
Visiting Córdoba is like immersing yourself in a world of history, culture, and beauty. From the iconic Patios de San Basilio to the majestic Mosque-Cathedral, this Andalusian city offers an unforgettable experience. Discover its charming corners and be captivated by its cuisine and unique atmosphere.
You can take tours of our beautiful patios located throughout the historic center of our city. Ask us, and we’ll tell you which are the most visited.
Calle San Basilio 4, 14004 Córdoba, CÓRDOBA