Cordoba Juderia visitors have the chance to explore one of the most fascinating historic districts in the world. The best-known part of Cordoba's dazzling Old Town, this medieval ghetto harkens back to a time when the Moors ruled most of Spain and Jews prospered. Under the Caliphate of Cordoba in particular, the Jews who lived in Spain enjoyed complete religious and social freedom. The same could be said about Christians, and interestingly enough, this all helped Cordoba become the cultural capital of Europe for a time.

Such famous thinkers as the Jewish philosopher Maimonides and the mathematician Averroes once called the Cordoba Juderia home. Jews actually managed to establish themselves in Cordoba during Roman and Visigothic times, though it was under subsequent Arab/Moorish rule that they really prospered. When the Moorish Caliphate of Cordoba ruled supreme, the Cordoba Juderia was at its absolute peak. The Caliphate lived from 929 to 1031, and during this time, a renowned Talmudic school of the day was founded. Maimonides, who is actually considered to be the greatest Jewish philosopher of all time, was born in Cordoba in 1125, and there is a statue honoring him in the Juderia's Tiberiadus Square. Another statue of interest is that of Seneca, which is found at the district's western gate of sorts. This gate is known as La Puerta de Almodovar.

The Cordoba Juderia extends from the western boundary that is La Puerta de Almodovar to Calle El Rey Heredia (El Rey Heredia Street), with its southern boundary basically being established by an ancient synagogue. Aptly known as the Cordoba Synagogue, this edifice from the 1300s is the main remnant from the city's former Jewish population. Found only a couple of blocks west of the famed Mezquita, it is no longer a place of worship. Instead, it serves as a historical monument and a museum. The amazing stuccowork in the synagogue's interior alone is worth checking out.

Cordoba Map

One of the greatest joys that is associated with a visit to the Jewish Quarter in Cordoba is strolling along the district's charming alleyways. The Calleja de Flores is the district's most beautiful alleyway, and its acclaim is largely due to the ornate balconies and colorful flowers that line it. Also found within the district are lovely patios and sunbathed plazas that are a joy to admire, and when a break from sightseeing is in order, hitting the district's shops or getting something at a local café are among the options.