04/10/2026
Medina Azahara (Madinat al-Zahra) is the ruins of a great palace city near Córdoba, in Andalusia, in the south of Spain. It was built from the year 936 by Abd al-Rahman III, the first caliph of Córdoba, when Córdoba was one of the richest cities in Europe. The city had palaces, gardens, mosques, homes and offices, and it was the centre of government. But it was used for only about 70 years. Around 1010 it was destroyed during a civil war and slowly forgotten. Today it is an important archaeological site and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2018.
What to See
The city was built on terraces on the side of a hill, so you walk down through different levels. The most beautiful part is the Hall of Abd al-Rahman III, a reception hall with rebuilt horseshoe arches and fine carved stone decoration. You can also see the remains of streets, houses, gardens, the mosque and the great arched porch of the palace. From the site there are wide views over the valley of the Guadalquivir river. Start your visit at the modern museum next to the car park. It explains the history of the city and shows objects found during the excavations.
How to Get There and Practical Information
Medina Azahara is about 8 kilometres west of the centre of Córdoba. You can go by car, taxi, organised tour or tourist bus from the city. From the museum and car park, a small shuttle bus takes visitors up to the ruins, about 2 kilometres away. Entry to the site is free for citizens of the European Union and costs very little for other visitors, and there is a small charge for the shuttle bus. The site is closed on Mondays. There is little shade, so in summer it is best to visit early in the day and bring water and a hat.
Weather in location: Medina Azahara, Córdoba, Spain
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