The old town is an impressive network of small alleys, squares and courtyards arranged around the world-famous Mezquita. There are many good architectural reminders of its former glory days, some wonderful Renaissance churches and palaces and a few impressive museums.

Cordoba is well-known for its art and culture and there are a host of events organised throughout the year including flamenco festivals, ballet and numerous concerts.

It was built during the 9th and 10th centuries and features 850 columns, double arches and Byzantine mosaics. The main doorway leads to a large cobbled courtyard, the Orange Trees Patio, lined with low trees and water courses.

The Jewish Quarter: is a fascinating network of little streets and probably the best-known part of Cordoba's old town. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984 and its medieval streets have a distinctly Moorish feel to them. Of special interest is the synagogue, which can be found in the centre of this traditional neighbourhood.

Alcazar: this magnificent building with its thick defensive walls served both as a fortress and a palace. It contains many different halls which are located around the courtyard with an exotic array of flowers, aromatic herbs and mature trees. The most interesting of these is the Hall of the Mosaics, where a series of Roman mosaics, discovered underneath the Corredera, are displayed around the walls.

The Archaeological Museum: is housed in the former Renaissance-style palace of the Paez de Castillejo family. It is one of the most impressive museums in Spain and contains artefacts from prehistoric times up to the period of Arabic rule known as Al-Andalus. There is a wide range of exhibits from different periods and architectural styles displayed in the eight rooms and three different courtyards.