Cordoba, a city majestically standing on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, is a living testament to centuries of history flowing like a river of intertwined chronicles. Founded in the 2nd century B.C. under the name Corduba in Roman times, its cobbled streets tell the story of a cultural melting pot.

Traces of the Roman era, palpable in its temples and amphitheaters, reveal Cordoba’s grandeur during the peak of the Roman Empire. However, with the fall of the empire, the city transformed during the Visigothic period, marking a slow pause before the arrival of new conquerors.

In the 8th century, during the splendor of Al-Andalus, Cordoba reached its zenith. Under the rule of Abd al-Rahman I, the city became the cultural and scientific jewel of Al-Andalus. The construction of the Mosque-Cathedral and the creation of the library by Al-Hakam II in the 10th century solidified its status as a center of knowledge.

The Christian Reconquest in 1236, led by Ferdinand III, introduced a new chapter in Cordoba’s history. The Mosque-Cathedral, a unique architectural example, symbolizes the fusion of Islamic and Christian styles during this transitional period.

Subsequent centuries brought highs and lows, from opulence to decline. In the 20th century, the Mosque-Cathedral was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting Cordoba’s relevance in world history and its ability to rise from the ashes.

Today, Cordoba presents itself as a mosaic of intertwined stories. Cobbled alleys, millennia-old walls, and Cordoban Patios dating back to the 15th century invite every visitor to get lost in the centuries and discover the secrets whispered by the stones of this extraordinary city.

*Let us share a bit of history about the towns or optional visits you can add to this tour from Seville:

• Medina Azahara, also known as the Shining City, is an archaeological site located on the outskirts of Cordoba, Spain. Its history dates back to the 10th century during the Caliphate of Cordoba, under the reign of Abderramán III. The construction of Medina Azahara began in 936 AD as a monumental project intended to be the capital of the caliphate. Abderramán III built it as a symbol of power and greatness, aiming to rival other important Islamic cities of the time, such as Baghdad or Damascus. The city was designed with orderly streets, sumptuous buildings, exquisite gardens, and architecture reflecting the opulence of the caliphate. Its name, “Medina Azahara,” is believed to come from the favorite wife of Abderramán III, named Azahara.

However, the grandiose Medina Azahara had a fleeting existence. The city suffered damage during political upheavals and was plundered in the year 1010. Later, an earthquake in the 11th century destroyed much of the city, leaving it abandoned and forgotten for centuries. The rediscovery of Medina Azahara took place in the 20th century, and since then, it has been the subject of archaeological excavations revealing the magnitude of this ancient Islamic city. In 2018, Medina Azahara was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. Today, the site is a tourist destination allowing visitors to explore the ruins and learn about the fascinating history of this medieval enclave.

• Carmona is a historic city located in the province of Seville, in the region of Andalusia, Spain. Its history spans several centuries, witnessing diverse cultures and events over time. In the Bronze Age, the area that now occupies Carmona was already inhabited. During the Roman era, the city was known as “Carmo” and stood out for its strategic importance, with monuments like the Puerta de Sevilla and the Necropolis still attesting to its Roman past. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Carmona passed through Visigothic rule before being conquered by the Muslims in 713. During this period, fortifications and the Alcazaba were erected, contributing to the architectural wealth of the city.

In 1247, Fernando III reconquered Carmona for Castile. Under Christian rule, notable churches, such as Santa María, were built, and the Arab urban structure was maintained. During the Renaissance, the city experienced a cultural and economic revival, with the construction of churches and palaces. Throughout the centuries, Carmona lived through various historical moments, from the War of Independence to the Spanish Civil War. Today, the city preserves a valuable architectural heritage, with monuments like the Puerta de Córdoba, the Alcazaba, and the Plaza de San Fernando. Carmona is an attractive tourist destination that captivates visitors with its rich history and cultural charm.

• The Ruins of Itálica, located in the province of Seville, Spain, are an important archaeological site dating back to the Roman era. Founded in 206 BC, Itálica was the first Roman city on Spanish soil and played a prominent role in the region’s history. During its peak in the 2nd century BC, Itálica reached great splendor. It was the birthplace of two notable Roman emperors: Trajan and Hadrian. The city boasted grand architecture, including amphitheaters, temples, baths, and houses reflecting the prosperity and lifestyle of Rome. The Amphitheatre of Itálica, one of the most iconic monuments, could accommodate over 25,000 spectators and hosted gladiatorial events and athletic competitions. This amphitheater served as a model for the construction of the Colosseum in Rome.

With time, Itálica experienced periods of decline and abandonment, especially during the Germanic invasions and internal struggles of the Roman Empire. However, archaeological excavations have been conducted since the 18th century, revealing the historical richness of this ancient Roman city. Today, the Ruins of Itálica are a tangible testimony to the greatness of Roman civilization on the Iberian Peninsula. Visitors from around the world can explore the cobbled streets, admire the remains of columns and mosaics, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a glorious past that has endured over the centuries. The site has been declared a Cultural Heritage Site and is a tourist destination that attracts history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Day Trip to Cordoba and Carmona from Seville Day Trip to Cordoba and Medina Azahara from Seville Day Trip to Cordoba and Itálica from Seville