The Torre de la Calahorra is an emblematic monument of Cordoba’s rich architectural past, at the crossroads of the cultures that have shaped the city. A historic monument since 1931, this fortified tower at the end of the Roman Bridge now houses the Living Museum of Al-Andalus, retracing the city’s era of cultural, artistic and scientific splendor.
In this article, you’ll find a selection of useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit the Calahorra Tower?
Is the tower worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, the Calahorra Tower is well worth a visit! We were seduced by its unique architecture, which blends Almohad and Mudejar styles, bearing witness to the different construction periods. This fortress, used to protect the Roman Bridge, offers a journey back in time thanks to its entertaining museum. From its strategic location, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Guadalquivir and the Cordovan city.
Book now your private tour of Cordoba, including the Calahorra Tower!
WHERE TO STAY IN Cordoba
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Historic district
Hotel Las Casas de la Juderia – See prices, photos and availability
Hotel Madinat – See prices, photos and availability
Santa Marina district
Hotel Hospes Palacio del Bailio – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel 1 – See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel 2 – See prices, photos and availability
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Cordoba
Why is the Calahorra Tower famous?
The Calahorra Tower is famous for its blend of Almohad architecture and medieval Christian transformations, reflecting Cordoba’s rich history. A historic monument since 1931, it now houses the Living Museum of Al-Andalus, which showcases the city’s medieval cultural heritage. You’ll notice its strategic position, offering an unobstructed view of the city. Finally, we liked its museum, which illustrates the harmonious coexistence of Jewish, Christian and Muslim cultures.
History in brief
The history of the Calahorra Tower is full of twists and turns. Here’s what we’ve learned:
- 12th century: initial construction by Muslims to protect the Roman bridge
- 1369: Henry II of Castile adds a third square tower and 2 cylindrical towers
- 18th-19th centuries: the tower was first used as a prison and hospital, then as a boarding school for girls.
- 1931: declared a historic monument
- 1951: major restoration
- 1987: installation of the Al-Andalus Living Museum
Access: Calahorra Tower, Cordoba
Where is the Calahorra Tower?
The Calahorra Tower stands at the end of the Roman Bridge, on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River:
- In the Judéria district
- Just a stone’s throw from the famous Cathedral Mosque and all the must-see places in Cordoba.
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How to get there?
There are several options for reaching the Calahorra Tower:
- The tower is easily accessible on foot.
- If you’re taking public transport, the nearest stops are “El Potro (la Ribera)” and “Avda.Cádiz (Plaza Santa Teresa)” on the city’s transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares, here
- You can choose a sightseeing bus tour. Hop-on-hop-off buses are a great way to visit all the sights quickly and easily. Book your Hop-On-Hop-Off pass now.
Parking
Located in the heart of the city, it’s easiest to get here on foot. However, if you need parking, the nearest parking lot is Parking la Mezquita de Córdoba. It’s just a 5-minute walk away.
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Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
We recommend visiting the tower in the early morning or late afternoon. This avoids the intense heat of the afternoon, especially in summer, and allows you to appreciate the morning and evening lights that enhance the landscape.
Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons to visit Cordoba, as the climate is milder, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in summer. However, a visit to Córdoba in winter is full of surprises!
Length of visit and main difficulties
Allow between 30 and 45 minutes for a complete tour of the tower.
Please note that there is no elevator up to the tower; access is by staircase only.
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Schedules and rates
- Horaires: le site est ouvert tous les jours mais les horaires varient selon les périodes:
- October and March to May: 10am – 7pm
- November to February: 10am – 6pm
- June to September: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Price: admission is €4.50 full price and €3 concessions.
Check the latest site information here before your visit.
Book now your private tour of Cordoba, including the Calahorra Tower!
Guided tours
Audioguides are included in the ticket in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian and Arabic.
Catering
There are no catering facilities on site. On the other hand, you’re right in the center of town, close to a number of establishments. Discover our favorite restaurants in Cordoba, to enjoy before or after your visit.
Discover the unique architecture of the Calahorra Tower
The Tour de la Calahorra boasts fascinating architecture that bears witness to its eventful history. We learned that it was built on a Latin cross plan, with 3 arms formed by square towers connected by cylindrical elements. This unique configuration is the result of successive additions over the centuries.
In the 14th century, you could have seen Enrique II of Castile oversee the addition of a new tower, moat and drawbridge. Note the Castilla y León coat of arms on the monument, still bearing witness to this addition. The tower has adapted to military developments: we discovered, for example, that at the end of the 15th century, embrasures were added for cannons, and in 1514, a defensive barbican was added by order of Juana I of Castile.
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Immerse yourself in the history of Al-Andalus at the Calahorra Museum
We really enjoyed discovering the Al-Andalus Living Museum, set up in the tower in 1987. We found it particularly entertaining, with its animated exhibition depicting life in Cordoba in the 10th century A.D., when 3 religions and their cultures coexisted: Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The many models on display helped us project ourselves into Cordoba’s past. In particular, we enjoyed looking closely at the representation of the Cordoba Mosque as it was in Moorish times, before the cathedral was built.
The tour through the 8 themed rooms, which retrace the city’s history, is a great way to immerse yourself in Andalucia’s past. You’ll discover the evolution of the tower itself, then the intellectual and scientific influences, highlighting the Moorish cultural heritage and the coexistence of 3 cultures. We also learned more about the major scientific and technological discoveries of al-Andalus, with a focus on astronomy, medicine and mathematics.
Admire the panoramic view of Cordoba from the Calahorra Tower
The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the panoramic view from the top of the tower! We were captivated by the panoramic view of the historic city. Enjoy spectacular views of the Roman Bridge, Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral and the rooftops of the historic center, especially those of the Judea Quarter.
This panorama also offers a view of the Guadalquivir River, which winds its way through the city. The unique perspective from the tower captures the city’s architectural and natural heritage. We were particularly impressed by this vivid historical picture. He also made us aware of the building’s strategic location!
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