Córdoba

Yesterday API took us to Córdoba to see the Medina Azahara and of course the Cathedral (once Mosque). It was incredible to see the ruins of Medina Azahara. 10-15,000 Muslims once lived here but today the ruins have only been recovered to demonstrate the area where the Caliph, the elite and the workers lived. Although there is not much left of the Medina, there is enough and I find it amazing that it has stood the test of time. Later we walked around Córdoba which may be my new favorite city in Spain (besides Sevilla of course). Historically, Córdoba was the capital of the Islamic empire in Spain due to its central geographical location and also its proximity to the Guadalquivir. Still today, Córdoba remains historic with the Mosque of Córdoba standing tall within the city center.

The Mosque was the single most interesting thing I've seen in my entire life. Later after the Muslims were expelled from the country, the Mosque was converted into a Cathedral. However, most of the building is still in its original form from the days of when it stood as a Mosque. The Arched entry ways, incredible columns and scriptures on the wall are all from the days of Muslim rule. Yet the newer part, is the Cathedral. It is fascinating to see the mixture of both Christian and Islamic influence in one area. The lamps that hang from within the historic mosque are garnished with crosses..something I found very interesting. The Cathedral and where the Mosque was once is only divided by floor marble and walls.

Today there is so much hatred between the Islamic and Christian world. To think that there is a building that encompasses both religions where people visit every day to not only tour, but also to pray is amazing. Originally I was ecstatic to tour the Mosque because of its historical significance. Now, I am more amazed by the symbolism of this building in today's world and that it is still being preserved. Although it is called the Cathedral of Córdoba, what remains of the Mosque is preserved and the importance of what this Mosque once symbolized is still respected.I think that's what struck me the most about the Mosque.

Dad comes today, can't wait! Weekend off to a great start!