Discover the incredible "Shining City", the archaeological ruins of a Medieval citadel constructed in the first half of the 10th century by Abd-ar-Rahman III, the first Umayyad Caliph of Cordoba.
Medina Azahara Guided Tour
At the indicated time, we'll meet at the Paseo de la Victoria, and from this point in Cordoba we'll travel by bus to Medina Azahara, located just 8 kilometres (4.9 miles) from the city. Abandoned and looted just 80 years after construction, and buried over time, the former capital of al-Andalus was discovered at the end of the 19th century. Spreading across 276 acres (112 hectares), it's one of the largest archaeological sites in Spain.
On arrival at the ruined palace-city, we'll visit the Medina Azahara Museum to discover the remains of the palace-city up close and learn more about the fascinating site as we see a breathtaking collection of pieces taken from the site.
Afterwards, we'll take a shuttle bus to the archaeological site, and enjoy a guided tour. As we explore the ten per cent of the site that has been uncovered, our guide will reveal the secrets hidden in the fortress. Limestone walls with intricate arabesque carvings, golden ceilings and pools of mercury made the Medina Azahara a magnificent palace complex that was as popular with the princes, artists and philosophers of the time as it was important politically.
Travel back in time to the 10th century and see how the Caliph of Cordoba lived as we wander through the different parts of the ancient fortified city, admiring the splendour of its mosques, towers, servants' quarters, bath complexes and aristocratic residences.
At the end of our visit, we'll return to the meeting point in Cordoba by bus after a total of 3.5 hours.
Tour without transport
If you have access to your own vehicle and would prefer to reach the Medina Azahara at your own pace, you can reserve this activity without transport. If you book the tour without transport, we'll meet at the Medina Azahara car park.
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