The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is the third monument highest rated in the world according to TripAdvisor to 2025 (include link to tripadvisor). In this place more than two thousand years of history in 23.400 square meters which receive almost two million visitors each year. If you’re going to spend the day in Cordoba and arrive with luggage, you can leave them in our lockers for luggage.
Heritage of Humanity
Declared a world Heritage site by UNESCO in 1984, the Mosque-Cathedral is much more than a monument: it is a living testimony to the coexistence of cultures that have left their mark over the centuries.
A Roman Temple to Cathedral
His story begins with a roman temple, continues with a visigothic church, is transformed into the second largest mosque in the muslim world (surpassed only by The Mecca until 1588), and culminates with the building of a renaissance cathedral in its interior. This overlapping of civilizations makes it a unique building where the art umayyad al-andalus in dialogue with the gothic, the renaissance and the baroque.
Practical information for visiting the Mosque
Plan your visit to the Mosque-Cathedral is critical for maximizing the experience. Here we detail everything you need to know before you go.
How To Reach
The Mosque-Cathedral is located in Calle Cardenal Herrero, 1, in the heart of the historic old town. You can get in lines 3 and 12 bus stop (Bridge Gate) or walk about 20 minutes from the train station.
Opening hours 2025
March to October:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00-19:00
- Sunday: 8:30-11:30 and 15:00-19:00
From November to February:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00-18:00
- Sunday: 8:30-11:30 and 15:00-18:00
Free entry: from Monday to Saturday From 8:30 to 9:30 in the morning (without a guide). You can check the official hours here.
Entry price
General admission is 13. There are reduced inputs of between 7 and 10 euros for the over 65’s, students and families. And if you are travelling with children under the age of 10 years, they go free.
Our recommendations for your visit
Booking online in advance, especially in the spring or fall. The best time is first thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon to avoid crowds. And one important detail: it is a place of worship, so go with the proper clothing. Nothing of shorts or wear off-the-shoulder. It is a sign of respect towards the building and towards the people that still use this space to pray.
Essential to the Mosque-Cathedral
During your visit, there are elements that you can’t stop watching. These are the most iconic places that make the Mosque-Cathedral, a unique monument in the world.
The Patio de los Naranjos
The Patio de los Naranjos was used for ritual ablutions muslim. The orange trees of today were planted from 1512, and in the center you will find the Source of Santa Maria, surrounded by legends romantic.
The Forest of Columns
856 columns recycled from buildings of the roman and visigothic that hold two-colour arches of horseshoe. This “project of recycling historic” creates a visual effect of hypnotic, a feeling of infinity that transports you to another time.
The Mihrab: Jewel of the Art Umayyad
The mihrab is the summit of artistic Mosque. Richly decorated with byzantine mosaics, gold and marble, mark the most sacred place of the building. Interestingly, it is not oriented towards Mecca, but towards the southwest, following the tradition of the mosques syrian.
The Treasure of the Cathedral
Don’t miss the Monstrance of Arfe, a masterpiece of the jewelry of the XVI century, together with a collection of liturgical objects of great historical value.
Curiosities of the Mosque that you didn't Know
Between these walls lived illustrious figures as Luis de Góngora, the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, and king Alfonso XI and Ferdinand IV. The mihrab is aimed not towards Mecca, but in the southwest, perhaps by mistake in the calculation or for the intention of Abd-ar-rahman I remember his Damascus home. The 856 columns represent a historical project of recycling architectural demonstrating respect for the previous designs.
Tips to make the most of your Visit
These tips will help you to enjoy the great Mosque-Cathedral avoiding the crowds and making the most of your time in Cordoba.
Best time for your visit
The first hour of opening (10:00) or late afternoon (17:00-18:00) to avoid crowds. Noon is often crowded with tourist groups. Recommended duration: Minimum 2 hours to enjoy without rush.
Guided tour or Free
A guided tour (1.5 hours), it is critical to understand the historical complexity of the monument. You can combine the two options: first, the guide, and then free time.
If you can, avoid queues: online booking days in advance.
In high season (spring-autumn): tickets will sell out, therefore, the online booking will make the difference for you to explore the temple without setbacks. However, if you haven’t planned too far in advance, there is alternative (s): tours with entry to the temple that will also include the visit, but yes, they are somewhat more expensive.
What else to see in Cordoba on the day you visit the Mosque?
Just minutes away you will find the Jewish quarter (5 min), the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos (10 min), the Roman Bridge (5 min) and the Synagogue (8 min). You can devote a full day to explore the historic old town, getting lost in its streets and find the best of the city, unique corners and taverns classic where you get your strength back after a long day of sightseeing.
Frequently Asked questions on the great Mosque of Cordoba
How much time is needed to visit the Mosque?
It is recommended to allocate at least 2 hours to visit. If you’re on a guided tour usually lasts 1.5 hours, but then leave you free time to visit it on your own.
How you can enter for free?
Yes, from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 9:30pm (although remember that occurs the eviction of the temple from 9:20pm). It is a short-time and low-light. Also, children under 7 years are admitted free if you don’t use audio and accompanied by an adult.
Where can I leave my luggage?
You can find lockers for luggage quite close to the Mosque. We leave you here the situation of the lockers of baggage in Córdoba city.
Are there discounts?
Yes, for over 65, students up to 26 years of age, disabled, large families and children under 10 years free.
Can we climb the tower?
Yes, in 2014 they started the climb to the tower with 203 steps.
Do you accept card payments?
Yes, but we recommend you book online in advance.
When is the least crowded?
Especially first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. In rush hour tends to be more crowded.
central, safe, and accessible.
Is it worth it to hire a guide?
If, it is well worth it, especially if you do not want to miss anything of the mosque and learn more about its historical complexity and architectural.
Can you take pictures inside the mosque?
Yes, but you can’t use flash. In some areas of the mosque there may be restrictions on what you should be aware of the indications.
After learning everything you need to know about the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, don’t miss another essential local tradition by discovering the Patios of Córdoba, a true festival of color, flowers, and Andalusian heritage.
After exploring everything you need to know about the Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba, you can continue your cultural journey in northern Spain by visiting the art and museums in Bilbao, a city renowned for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
