The {Original} Córdoba

As many of you may know, my first experiences abroad were in Córdoba. Córdoba, Argentina that is. But this month I was able to make a trip to that city's namesake in Spain. Of course, Córdoba, Argentina will always be my first international home, but I couldn't help but notice some very distinct differences.

Some facts and observations about Córdoba, Spain:

It is over 2000 years old, founded in 169 BC. As such, there is no lack of ancient ruins, buildings and architecture. Córdoba’s ancient history can most easily be seen in the Medina Azahara, the original Arab Muslim capital of the region al-Andalus. It's 1000+ year old buildings are so well preserved, it's not hard to imagine what it might have been like to live in this city on a hill so many years ago. Córdoba's Alcázar (meaning "palace" in Arabic) is also a reminder of the extensive history of the city, once owned by the Visigoths then the Muslims and then the Christian Monarchs, Isabel I and Ferdinand II.

It is an intricate mix of cultures. It has been inhabited and influenced by everyone from Romans to Muslims to Catholics to Jews. The columns of a Roman temple in the center of Córdoba continue to stand only a few blocks from La Mezquita, originally a Muslim mosque and later converted into a Catholic Cathedral when the Spanish Christian king, Ferdinand III, took power during the Reconquista in 1236. Also located in the historic district of Córdoba is the judería or Jewish quarter that was built before the Jews were expelled from the city in the 15th century.

It is colorful. Even outside of springtime there are flowers everywhere. The white buildings and rod iron detailing act as a perfect backdrop for all colors of flowers and brightly patterned Spanish tiles. Of course, my love of all things Spanish and, as many of you know, floral, Córdoba seems a city modeled directly after my dreams :)

It is has typical Spanish food. Spanish ham (jamón serrano) hangs from the windows of butcher’s shops and egg-potato omelets (tortilla española) can be found in restaurants all around town. I was lucky enough to visit the city with friends and therefore also get to enjoy some authentic homemade dishes. After all, everyone knows there's no recipe like mom's recipe (if she even has one). Gambas, cocido, torrijas, cordero, pizza.... {Rico. Delicious. Buenísimo. So tasty}

So thankful to have been able to experience Córdoba flair on both continents. And one thing's for sure: I will be back to visit (both :)