Andalusia has a rich and eventful history, which is particularly evident in the former capital of Al-Andalus. The Mezquita of Córdoba is both a mosque and a cathedral, and there are good reasons for this. You definitely shouldn’t miss this well-known sight.
The History of the Mezquita Catedral de Córdoba
As early as the 6th century, a sacred building stood on the site of today's Mezquita Catedral de Córdoba—the Basilica of Saint Vincent, a Visigothic church. When Andalusia was conquered by the Moors, the first Emir of Córdoba, Abd al-Rahman I, ordered the construction of a mosque in 785, replacing the cathedral. Before that, the building had been used by both Christians and Muslims alike.
Over the years, the mosque was continuously expanded until 1236, when the Christian Reconquista brought Córdoba back under the rule of the Spanish kings. Like many monuments from that period, King Ferdinand III did not destroy the mosque but instead repurposed it as a church.
Even after the Reconquista, the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba continued to be expanded. In 1371, King Henry II added the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel). In the 16th century, Charles V introduced Gothic and Renaissance elements to the structure—something he later regretted.
The original minaret, completed in 958 by Abd al-Rahman III, was converted into a bell tower in the 17th century, now known as the Torre Campanario. Even today, the different architectural styles and the influences of both Christianity and Islam remain clearly visible in the building. Since 1984, the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It remains debated whether a Roman temple originally stood on this site. While Roman mosaics have been discovered, some scholars today believe this assumption to be incorrect.
Mezquita Córdoba Mosque-Cathedral – Tickets and Directions
If you plan to visit the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, it’s worth purchasing tickets in advance. As one of the most important landmarks in the city and all of Andalusia, it attracts several million visitors from around the world each year.
Admission starts at €11 and can be enhanced with a guided tour (GetYourGuide) or a visit to the bell tower (from €3). The official website of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba also offers a night tour option, starting at €18.
Students (aged 16 to 26) and adults over 65 who are EU citizens are eligible for a discounted ticket (€9). Tickets for children aged 10 to 14 cost €6, and for those belonging to a large family, the price is reduced to €4 per person.
If you live in Córdoba or were born there, entry is free. Additionally, from Monday to Saturday, all visitors can enter for free between 8:30 and 9:30 AM.
Opening Hours
November - February | March - October |
|---|---|
Monday to Friday: 10 am - 2 pm and 4 pm - 6 pm | Monday to Saturday: 10 am - 7 pm |
Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm | Sondays and on religious holidays: 8:30 am - 11:30 am and 3 pm - 7 pm |
Sundays and on religious holidays: 8:30 am - 11:30 am and 4 pm - 6 pm | |
How to Get There
Calle Cardenal Herrero 1 14003 Córdoba
Bus 3 and 12, Bus stop: "Puerta del Puente"
Taxi: Conjunto Monumental Mezquita-Catedral, C/ Torrijos 6
Key Facts for Your Visit to the Mezquita in Córdoba
Construction of the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba began in 785, with the last major modifications completed in the 16th century. Covering 24,000 m², the structure contains 856 columns made of marble, granite, jasper, and other precious stones.
Since 2006, the Catholic Church has owned the Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba and permits only Christians to pray inside. This policy has been met with criticism from Muslims both in the region and worldwide, leading to campaigns advocating for change—so far without success. However, occasional exceptions have been made, such as during Saddam Hussein's visit in 1974.
It is important to note that this restriction applies only to prayer—visitors of all faiths are welcome. A small step towards inclusivity has already been achieved, as the site—previously referred to only as the Cathedral of Córdoba—is now officially recognised as the Mosque-Cathedral.
Hotels Near La Mezquita Catedral de Córdoba
What to Expect During Your Visit to the Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral
If you choose to purchase your tickets online rather than on-site, you will need to select a specific time slot. Entry is only permitted at designated times to prevent overcrowding.
Orange Tree Courtyard (Patio de los Naranjos)
Columned Hall
Mihrab and Maqsura
Upon passing through one of the many gates, you will find yourself in the Orange Tree Courtyard, enclosed by high walls. From here, you enter the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, which consists of several distinct areas, including the Columned Hall, the Mihrab and Maqsura, the Dome of the Villaviciosa Chapel, the Bell Tower, and the Capilla Mayor (Main Chapel), which houses the high altar.
In total, the site features more than 30 chapels, as well as the Museo de San Vicente, located along the southern, western, eastern, and northern walls. Additionally, you can admire 20 intricately decorated doors, showcasing both Islamic and Christian artistic influences.
FAQ
When is Entry to the Mezquita de Córdoba Free?
From Monday to Saturday, entry to the Mezquita de Córdoba is free between 8:30 and 9:30 AM. Additionally, there are discounts available for certain groups, which you can find on www.andalusian-adventure.com.
How Much Time for the Cordoba Mosque-Cathedral Visit?
You should allow around 1.5 hours for your visit to the Mezquita in Córdoba. Of course, you can stay longer if you wish—this is simply an average duration.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba?
The morning hours are generally less crowded than the afternoon. If you want to take advantage of free entry, it’s best to visit between 8:30 and 9:30 AM.