Mezquita Oldest Parts

Oldest White-and-red horseshoe-shaped arches in the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral in Cordoba

The oldest parts of the Mezquita dates from 786 and set the basic design template for all the extensions to the mosque that followed.

The emblematic double arches of the Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral in Cordoba: the lower arch is Moorish horseshoe-shaped while the upper arch is the more traditional Roman round. Of the original 1293 columns, 856 survived. Despite the additions during the Christian period, 70% of the original mosque survived. Since 1236, the Mezquita in Cordoba has been a Roman Catholic Church with mass said daily. Although the local still call it the mosque, no Islamic prayers are allowed.

The Mezquita Mosque-Cathedral is the top sight to see in Cordoba, Andalusia. Opening hours are long, tickets are only sold on-site, or as part of tours. Early morning admission is free.