Cordoba stands on the site of an Iberian settlement, but it was not until Roman times that it began to play a major role in Spanish history, it is believed to have been founded by Claudius Marcellus.
Situated to the north east of Seville and was not only the capital of Moorish Spain, founded in the 8th century but is also an intellectual and cultural center known throughout Europe.
There is a beautiful 8th century mosque which is one of the best examples of the use of space imaginable.
Cordoba today is a city of immense monumental wealth, having been declared a part of Humanity's Heritage in 1994, with art and history to be found in every alleyway, patio and square.
Córdoba has a 14th century castle, a Roman bridge and a picturesque old Jewish quarter with a medieval synagogue.
After the Christians retook the city the central part of the great mosque was demolished in order to make room for a lavishly decorated cathedral.