Córdoba through a local eye
A painter of the city who painted it and its countryside all his life.
An art centre in central Córdoba named after the painter Rafael Botí, a son of the city and among its leading twentieth-century painters. Botí painted Córdoba and its Andalusian countryside throughout his life, and his manner mixes realism with abstraction in earth colours reflecting the region's light. His work gives a visitor something the monuments do not: how a local painter saw the city you have come to see. The centre shows his work alongside temporary exhibitions by contemporary Andalusian artists, and runs cultural events. Entry is normally free, which makes it an easy addition in a city where most sights carry high tickets. It stands in the centre a short walk from the old city, so it costs you no detour. Hours are limited with a weekly closing day, and the space may close between exhibitions — check before going.
A painter of the city who painted it and its countryside all his life.
Earth colours reflecting the region's light, between realism and abstraction.
Temporary shows by Andalusian artists alongside the collection.
Central Córdoba near the old city
Judería, the Old Jewish QuarterA web of narrow lanes west of the Mosque-Cathedral, the heart of old Córdoba and1 minute walk4.8
Caliphal BathsThe Caliphal Baths served the palace of the caliphs of Córdoba, and date in orig2 minutes walk4.1
Episcopal PalaceA palace standing directly across the street from the Mosque of Córdoba, the sea2 minutes walk3.8
Córdoba SynagogueThe Córdoba Synagogue is one of only three medieval synagogues left in Spain. Bu2 minutes walk4.4
Mosque-Cathedral of CórdobaThe Great Mosque of Córdoba is among the greatest things Muslims built in Spain.2 minutes walk4.7As a short free stop yes, particularly since it is central and takes you nowhere off your route. But be realistic about priorities: the great mosque first by a wide margin, then the Alcázar, the Jewish quarter and the Roman bridge. This centre comes after those.
Spring without competition: April and May are mild, the flowers are at their peak and the patio festival falls in May. Summer is very hot, passing forty degrees, and makes daytime movement hard. Autumn is also good, and winter is mild, quiet and cheaper.