The Mezquita was my favourite place in Spain, which is why I have saved it until last. I thought it was stunning. I hope you like it too.
Cordoba is rightly famous for the magnificent Mezquita. The well preserved mosque dates from 784 A.D. During the Dark Ages, when most of Europe was illiterate, Cordoba was a centre for religious tolerance, learning and art. I had no idea what to expect. I was not disappointed.
part of the exterior wall
the massive doors leading to the Mezquita
incredible doors
open sesame
the courtyard in front of the mosque
inside the mosque
There are 850 columns inside topped with double arches made from red brick and white stone. The arches remind me of nautilus shells. The columns were recycled from Roman and Visigoth ruins. This place is breathtaking.
I love the arches
The mihrab is like a christian church’s high altar and this is truly spectacular. More than 20,000 people could pray in the mosque at once. It must have been an incredible sight.
the Mihrab
detail above the arch
looking up
the ceiling
closer
inscriptions on the columns
is this not incredible?
so much detail
beautiful
As if all this wasn’t enough a christian church was built in the middle of the mosque in 1523.
christian and muslim
the altar of the church
ceiling
another one
the organ in the choir
carved wooden seats in the choir - check out the haircut on the right
woman with dove
angel on a pillar
knight on a pillar
lots of gold
a knight in an alcove
doesn't he look jolly
I prefer the islamic style to the christian. It somehow seems more calming.
I love these arches
tiles
more arches
and more
last one - I hope you weren't bored
back in the courtyard
This is one place I want to come back to – once is not enough.