We have had the amazing experience of staying with some friends in a small Spanish Pueblo (town) of Alcaucin, located in the mountains just north of Malaga. The Pueblo is set into the hillside with narrow streets and all the charm one can hope for. We have truly enjoyed spending time with the Zartman family as well as seeing what is like for the locals. Below is a picture of all of us during our trip to Morocco this past weekend.
While staying with the Zartman family, we took a day trip to Cordoba. Upon arrival we went straight for the biggest attraction, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba. The current structure started construction around 784 A.D. It was built as a Mosque and was turned over to Christian rule in 1235 A.D. Then in the 16th century the church received the addition on top of the Mosque adding a Renaissance Cathedral nave.
I would highly recommend making Cordoba a stop on your next trip to Spain, even if it just to see the Mosque-Cathedral. It is very interesting and quite different any others throughout Europe.
Tip: Tickets can be purchased upon entry for 10 Euros per person. There is a ticket window which has a very long line. If you look to the left of the ticket window you will find the ticket kiosks. The machines only take cash but using this method will significantly reduce your wait time. You can also purchase tickets to climb the bell tower for 2 Euros per person. Those must be purchased from the counter directly in front of the bell tower entrance.
After exploring the Mosque-Cathedral for about an hour, we wandered the streets of the Juderia (Jewish Quarter) and had lunch in one of the cafes along the famous Patios of Cordoba.
Before heading to the car for our drive back to Alcaucin, we stopped to see the Roman Bridge. It is pretty cool to see as it was originally built in the 1st century B.C.
Our drive was beautiful through the mountains covered in Olive trees. Tonight is our last night with our friends and then we are off to Seville.