As part of a magnificent historic center, unique in all of Spain, the Royal Alcázar of Córdoba stands as a true jewel of the city and the history of this country.
Enjoy your trip to Córdoba as much as the city itself. To do so, forget about transportation hassles; that’s why we recommend hiring a car without a credit card at Málaga Airport.
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History of the Alcázar of Córdoba
The history of the Royal Alcázar of Córdoba, also known as the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs, is as ancient as the city itself. Its origins and construction are intertwined with the golden years of a unique city in world history.
Originally built for military purposes, the foundation of the Royal Alcázar of Córdoba dates back to the Andalusian era, alongside the eternal Guadalquivir River. Along its banks also stand other historical landmarks of Córdoba, such as the Roman Bridge and the Puerta del Puente.
The Alcázar of Córdoba is a palace, fortress, and royal residence that originated from the renowned Andalusian Alcázar, which served as a royal residence for centuries. Its gardens were commissioned by the well-known Abd al-Rahman II in the 9th century. After a period when it lost its status as a Royal Residence in favor of Medina Azahara, it regained its splendor three centuries later, becoming a new Alcázar, this time under the Almohad rule.
Over the years, the Alcázar has changed hands, residents, and functions. Alfonso XI of Castile acquired part of it in the 14th century, transforming it into a Castilian Royal Residence, where the Catholic Monarchs became the last rulers to inhabit it.
From 1492 onward, it served as a prison and a site of torture for the Spanish Inquisition before becoming a municipal prison until 1941.
The Towers of the Royal Alcázar of Córdoba
The Royal Alcázar of Córdoba has four towers, giving it an almost square shape. Each of them has its own history and unique features.
The first is the Torre del Homenaje, an octagonal tower located in the northwest corner. Inside, you’ll find the famous room where Christopher Columbus presented his route to the Indies before the Catholic Monarchs. The tower’s name comes from the oath taken to protect the Alcázar.
The Torre de los Leones, square-shaped from its base, is named after the gargoyle at its top, resembling a lion. Built under the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, it serves as the main and most monumental entrance for tourists visiting the Alcázar.
The third tower, circular in shape, is known as the Torre de la Inquisición, located in the southeast. It housed the archives of the Spanish Inquisition for centuries.
The last tower, called the Torre de la Paloma or Torre de la Vela, has a square base and is a reconstruction. The original was destroyed in the 19th century, but in the mid-20th century, during a major renovation of the Royal Alcázar, it was rebuilt.
Interior and Exterior of the Alcázar of Córdoba
Among its marvelous gardens, we can highlight the Upper Garden, the Middle Garden, the Lower Garden, and the Paseo de los Reyes. However, these are not the only attractions worth visiting at the Alcázar.
Inside, you’ll find real treasures, such as the Hall of Mosaics, which boasts a history as fascinating as the Alcázar itself, with unique pieces dating back to the 2nd century. Another notable room is the Reception Hall, also known as the Ocean Hall.
Don’t forget to visit the Patio de las Mujeres (Women’s Courtyard) or Oriental Courtyard, the Patio de Crucero, and the Royal Baths of Doña Leonor, built in the Mudejar style.
Restorations of the Alcázar of Córdoba
Presented in 2014, the major remodeling and restoration project of the Alcázar of Córdoba began the following year. The first phase took place between 2015 and 2016.
At the end of 2019, work began to restore the Torre de la Inquisición, which was completed in March 2022.
The Baroque Gate was renovated in 2022. Future projects are planned to continue improving the facilities of the entire Alcázar.
Opening Hours and Tickets for the Alcázar of Córdoba
Opening Hours of the Alcázar of Córdoba
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Friday: 08:15 AM – 08:00 PM
- Saturday: 09:30 AM – 06:00 PM
- Sunday and Holidays: 08:15 AM – 02:45 PM
The ticket office stops selling tickets 45 minutes before closing time, and it is important to note that only card payments are accepted.
Tickets for the Alcázar of Córdoba
The ticket price for an adult to enter the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs is €7, though on non-holiday Thursdays from 6:00 PM, entry is free.
The following groups and individuals are entitled to a 50% discount:
- Large families, individuals over 65 years old, holders of the youth card and the Spanish university student card, as well as the international ISIC card for students up to 26 years old.
Additionally, free admission is granted to residents of Córdoba, minors under compulsory schooling age (up to 16 years old), job seekers who can prove their status, individuals with a disability equal to or greater than 33%, and their companions if necessary.
After exploring the Royal Alcázar, there’s nothing better than indulging in the local cuisine at one of Córdoba’s traditional taverns. Try the best tapas in Córdoba, including salmorejo, flamenquín, and oxtail, accompanied by a fine local wine. A truly unforgettable experience for the senses!
How to Get to the Alcázar of Córdoba
How to Get to the Alcázar of Córdoba by Car
Take the A-4 and exit at junction 401. Continue along the road and take exit 988 towards Córdoba/Granada/Sevilla on the AP-46. After about 20 kilometers, take the A-45 for over 100 kilometers until reaching exit 0, which connects to the E-5/A-4 towards Córdoba city center/Madrid.
How to Get to the Alcázar of Córdoba by Bus
From Málaga Airport, take the A-line bus to P. Parque, which connects to Málaga’s Bus Station. From there, a direct, non-stop bus reaches Córdoba’s city center in just over three hours.
Where is the Alcázar of Córdoba?
If you don’t want to miss anything, check out our map, which will guide you to the Royal Alcázar of Córdoba, highlighting the most important landmarks along your route.
The Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs is just one of the many wonders Córdoba has to offer. If you visit this city, don’t miss other iconic landmarks such as the Mezquita of Córdoba, an impressive testament to Islamic and Christian architecture, or the Córdoba Cathedral, which rises within the mosque in a unique fusion of styles.
