Posts

Showing posts from March, 2024

Cordoba Part two

Image
One of my most favourite things to do while away is to imagine myself mingling among people from time gone by. And the Roman Bridge in Cordoba is a prefect place to do just that. Walking along it, you realise what a beautiful place Cordoba is, and more importantly, what a good place for building a city it is. Its a strong wide river, supplying both water and also for trade & defence. In fact, the Islamic rulers who came after the Romans realised it was capable of greatness, as Cordoba became one of the richest and impressive cities in medieval Europe. It also had possibly the worlds largest university and library at the point. The medieval age swept by and suddenly the Catholics came, retook the city , and the city declined, before gradually redeveloping itself into the city you see today. I liked to stand on the bridge, and just gaze wistfully into the distance, wondering if people who crossed this bridge 2,000 years ago also thought about the past, present and future, while in th...

Cordoba Part 1

Image
 Cordoba is one of those places every seems to want to go, but no one ever seems to, that make sense? Like when you are discussing travel plans with people, its one that frequently comes up, yet I'd never know of anyone I know or spoke to having visited it. I'd done a bit of research on it, and discovered to my delight, one of the most beautiful interiors of any building I had ever visited. Yes you guessed it, I'm talking about the Mezquita Cathedral. it's fantastic. Not only is in impressive in beauty, but also in size too. The beautiful contrasts of the white stone with red/white striped arches that just draws you in further and further into this paradise. Despite it being busy with people, you find spaces in the Mezquita that are peaceful, empty & tranquil. The blend of the Islamic architecture and Catholic iconography leads to a wonderful fusion of art, culture and religious beliefs. I don't think I've ever been somewhere that feels so dark yet so bright...