The Mezquita Cathedral in Cordoba Spain

The Mezquita, Mosque and Cathedral, is probably the biggest attraction in Cordoba.  It was originally built in the 700’s as a Mosque.  Then later altered in the 1200’s following the Christian Reconquista.  A Cathedral was later constructed in the 1600’s, in the center of the building.

Located in the Old Town area and next to the river Guadalquivir.  Behind the Mezquita complex is the Roman Bridge.

There is a wall that goes all the way around the complex, with several entrances that lead to the courtyard full of orange trees.

On the north side of the courtyard stands the tall bell tower.

The courtyard is open to the public without an entrance fee.

To get inside the Mezquita with its famous columns and striped arches, you need to pay an entrance fee at the ticket booth in the courtyard.  We were informed credit cards were not accepted, so went on an ATM hunt.  Bring cash.

It is rather dark inside the Mezquita, but adjusting for a faster ISO speed, makes it much easier to get photos.

The Cathedral portion is much brighter in contrast to the darker interior in the rest of the Mezquita.  Look at the ornate details in the ceiling and walls of the central Cathedral portion of the Mezquita.  There is quite a difference between the Muslim and Christian architecture.

There are two massive pipe organs across from each other in the Cathedral.

The inside of the Mezquita is quite large.  There are different areas along the edges with displays under glass.  There are also dozens of chapels along the outer walls that are protected behind bars.

The rows and rows of arches and columns are probably the most photographed place in Cordoba.

The Mezquita is well worth a visit.  We have several hundred photos.

I read that there are 800 columns inside the Mezquita.  There used to be more, but they were removed when the central Cathedral portion was constructed.

Next stop, Madrid.  Stay tuned!