Appreciate the beauty of the art and architecture of a religious centre built on the orders of a 13th-century king.
Standing on the grounds of a former mosque in the center of the city is San Miguel Church, a medieval gothic building from the 13th century. Known as a Fernandine church, it was one of several built on the orders of King Ferdinand III of Castile after he captured Cordoba from the Moors. Like other city churches of its kind, it served as a place of worship and as an administrative center. Visit this 700-year-old temple for its art, history and design.
Study the architecture of the exterior which has been repaired and renovated several times over the centuries. The austere main entrance with its rose window has changed little since construction while the tall white tower is an 18th-century addition. Part of it was constructed with the remains of a neighboring minaret. Note the side entrance in the shape of a horseshoe arch. This is believed to have been part of the mosque that once occupied this site.
When you are inside the church, walk down aisles divided by tall columns and arches. Study works of art and interior design elements such as mudejar wooden coffered ceilings and gothic ribbed vaults from the middle of the 14th century. Look at the faded remains of murals of The Virgin and Child and The Annunciation that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries respectively.
Admire the beauty of the 18th-century marble altarpiece that towers over the main altar and is decorated with numerous statues in niches. Walk over to the baptismal chapel which is covered by a mudejar dome.
San Miguel Church is open daily, and admission is free. This medieval religious structure is located on the Plaza de San Miguel in the city center, near the popular shopping street of Calle Jose Cruz. Come by bus or taxi, or drive and pay to park on the street or in garages.
