Among all the charms that the city of Córdoba offers us, the Roman Bridge may well be one of the most beautiful and representative of what is known as the City of the Three Cultures.
If you are looking to experience a magical place and a unique journey, enjoy the road by hiring an automatic car at Málaga Airport.
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History of Córdoba’s Roman Bridge
The sixteen original arches of the Roman Bridge could recount the most complete history of the city of Córdoba. And it’s no wonder—they have been part of the city since the 1st century BC.
The first stone bridge that united the two banks of the Guadalquivir in Córdoba originally had 17 arches, 16 today; it was Roman, but nowadays it is a chronology of everything the city has experienced over the centuries.
Known as the Old Bridge, it was the only bridge crossing the Guadalquivir in the city until well into the 20th century. But how has it remained in use for over two thousand years?
Origin of Córdoba’s Roman Bridge
It is true that the bridge’s origin is identified in its very name, and based on available data, the year of its construction can be dated—even suggesting that it was part of the Vía Augusta, which connected Cádiz with the Pyrenees in Roman times.
With these facts, and parts of the construction clearly identified as Roman, there is no doubt; however, the renovations carried out over the centuries have allowed it to remain in good condition while leaving traces of past civilizations.
The pointed arches, for example, are indicative of a medieval past—not a Roman one. Additionally, during the period of Al-Andalus, records indicate that under the rule of Caliph Umayyad Umar II of Damascus, the bridge underwent the necessary reconstructions for its proper use.
In 2008, the final remodeling works of the Roman Bridge were completed.
Surroundings of Córdoba’s Roman Bridge
The surroundings of the Roman Bridge in Córdoba are a true feast for the senses, an indelible piece of the city’s and Spain’s history.
The Mosque of Córdoba, the Roman Bridge itself, with its Bridge Gate and the Guadalquivir River, create an atmosphere—a unique environment that invites you to visit and enjoy.
Furthermore, the Roman Bridge is one of the main centers of the natural reserve known as Sotos de la Albolafia. In this way, history and nature merge to create a place completely unique in all of Spain’s geography.
Córdoba’s Roman Bridge Today
Today, the function of the Roman Bridge is to connect Campo de la Verdad with Córdoba Cathedral. It features a statue of Saint Raphael, known as the Triumph of Saint Raphael, dating from the 16th century. Always with red candles at its base—a sign of local veneration.
Since 1931, the Roman Bridge has been considered a Cultural Asset, along with the Calahorra Tower and the Bridge Gate mentioned earlier. Although it was not until 1994 that the historic center of Córdoba was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Curiosities of Córdoba’s Roman Bridge
The Roman Bridge of Córdoba is like that familiar face of someone you see on the street—it sounds familiar, but you can’t recall from where. You have seen the Roman Bridge many times on television, in films, and in series.
In 2002, it made a double appearance on the big screen in the film Carmen and, alongside Pedro Almodóvar, in the Spanish production Hable con ella. Although one of its great appearances was in the famous series Game of Thrones, where it represents the bridge of Volantis in the fifth season.
How to Get to Córdoba’s Roman Bridge
How to Reach Córdoba’s Roman Bridge by Car
Begin by leaving the Airport, using the AP-46 and A-45 as references. Take exit 401 from the A-4, in the direction of E-15/A-7. The next major exit is 988 towards AP-46, heading to Córdoba/Granada/Sevilla; then continue on the AP-46 for about 25 kilometers.
Merge onto A-45 and keep to the left to follow it for just over 115 kilometers. Next, use the right lane to take exit 0 and merge onto the E-5/A-4 towards Córdoba city center/Madrid. Now you only need to continue straight on the A-4 and take exit 401 towards the Mercacórdoba Historic Center.
How to Reach Córdoba’s Roman Bridge by Bus
At the “Arrivals” terminal of Málaga Airport, there is a bus connection on line A, towards P. Parque. After 20 minutes, you will arrive at the Málaga Bus Station, where another bus will take you to the center of Córdoba in about 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Where is Córdoba’s Roman Bridge?
So that you don’t miss a single thing on your way to the Roman Bridge in Córdoba, here is a map with the most important points of interest.
After exploring the Roman Bridge and getting lost in the streets of the historic center, there is nothing better than taking a break to enjoy Córdoba’s gastronomy.
The city is known for its culinary richness, and few experiences are as authentic as sitting in a traditional tavern to taste some tapas in Córdoba, accompanied by a good Montilla-Moriles wine or a refreshing cold beer.
