The Mezquita in Cordoba must be one of the most remarkable pieces of architecture of all times. It unites religious features of christianity and islam. Where else do you see Jesus hanging on the cross in between those typical islamic arches?
The first thing you encounter after entering the courtyard are the trees planted in rows. In the old days there was no wall separating the courtyard from the hundreds of columns you can find inside. The trees follow the exact same line. Inside you will find red-and-white colored giant arches resting on 856 columns. This creates an effect of infinity and almost disorientates you. The only feature in the mosque to identify the direction is the mihrab. This is a niche in the wall identifying the qibla; the wall that faces Mecca. In front of it you can find the maqsura, a beautiful enclosed area for the ruler and his family only.
In the middle of the Mezquita you’ll discover the Renaissance chancel and majestic choir stalls. It’s fascinating to see how something so completely different can be integrated so easily. Sitting on one of the benches in the middle of the Mezquita almost makes you forget about the red-white arches and the fact that you were actually in a mosque a few seconds before. The christian part of this magnificent building is decorated with a lot of images and statues. Something that is forbidden in the islam culture.
The arches and cathedral nave are surrounded by a lot of chapels and outside the walls contain 20 doors! I can only advise you to give the Mezquita a visit when in Cordoba and make sure to walk around the outside walls as well!
Since it’s impossible to share all my photos in my more detailed posts, I decided to create photo galleries. This way I can share more pictures and inspire you even more to travel these places as well!
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