Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

About Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

Abd al-Rahman I began the Great Mosque of Córdoba in 785, and later rulers expanded it until it held more than 850 columns supporting double horseshoe arches striped in red brick and white stone. The mihrab, a small octagonal chamber dressed in Byzantine style gold mosaics, is among the finest works of Islamic art. At its height Córdoba was one of the great cities of the world.

After the Christian conquest in 1236 the mosque became a cathedral, and in the 16th century a soaring Renaissance nave was built into its center. The result is a single building holding two sacred histories. It remains a Catholic cathedral, and Muslim prayer is not permitted, which is a subject of ongoing discussion.

What to see

• Hypostyle hall of arches
• Mihrab and maqsura mosaics
• Renaissance cathedral nave and choir
• Courtyard of the Oranges
• Bell tower built around the old minaret

Visiting Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: practical guide

Best time

March to May and October to November

Hours

Usually Monday to Saturday 10:00 to 19:00, Sunday afternoons

Entry

About 13 EUR; free entry hour on some weekday mornings

Dress code

Shoulders and knees covered

Nearest airport

Seville Airport (SVQ), 140 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Arrive for the early free entry window when offered
• Night tours add a different atmosphere
• Combine with the old Jewish Quarter and synagogue

Festivals and special days

• Corpus Christi
• Patios de Córdoba festival (May)

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
• Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
• Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
• Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
• Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions