The town square in the 'new' area of Cordoba
After checking in to our very comfortable hotel we set off to explore the town of Cordoba. There are several distinct areas - the ancient, the old and the 'new' (still pretty old!!). The Andalucia's cathedral is a spectacular building built by the region's Arab rulers in the 8th century incorporating Roman and Visigoth features. In the 'golden times' the Muslims, Jews and Christians coinhabitated and created a culture bubbling with scientific and cultural innovation. A huge, very impressive bell tower was added in the 16th century.
The Jewish quarter, part of UNESCO's World Heritage, is full of whitewashed buildings, narrow cobbled lanes and gorgeous hidden squares with lush climbing plants around the many inviting patios.
Every corner we turned we came across something impressive - huge walls and turrets, massive roman buildings, statues and monuments. It's also 'door city'!!! The imposing doors are a 'door freak's' paradise with something different at every doorway. Mostly wooden with the odd brass or metal ones. The cobblestones are worth checking out too with lots of different patterns and materials.
Everywhere we went there were folk drinking in patios or sidewalk cafes. Mid afternoon some were eating what looked to us like lunch.
We went back down to the 'new' city area in search of dinner at about 8pm and there appeared to be no meals being served. We're ever vigilant not to be first patrons in food places (in case the food's not so fresh stuff). So different from Barcelona where they'll serve you tapas or paella for breakfast lunch and dinner!!! We eventually found an Irish pub that served mostly Spanish food where we were able to get a couple of great fresh salad type meals - just what we felt like!!!