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Explore the medieval Castle of the Christian King and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visit the on-site archaeological museum and take a walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
The Castle of the Christian Kings (Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos) is a medieval castle in Cordoba. It was rebuilt by Alfonso XI in the 14th century. It was once the palace of the kings during the Christian era. The famous " Two Kings " in Spanish history - Ferdinand and Isabella - once lived here.
The castle also served as the Inquisition, where heresy trials were held. The Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos , a 13th- century castle built as a palace and fortress for King Alfonso X, became a garrison for Napoleon's troops in 1810 and a prison in 1821. This weathered castle was designated a tourist attraction in the 1950s and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Andalusia.
Here you can see many beautiful gardens and exhibits such as colorful mosaic tiles from the ancient Roman era. From the high tower of the castle, you can also see the ancient Roman bridge built in the ancient Roman era. However, this bridge was once destroyed by war. What people can see now is its appearance after repairs throughout the ages.
Cordoba is located in southern Spain. It has hot summers and strong sunshine, mild winters, and more pleasant spring and autumn, making it the best time to travel.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
4.5 euros per person
Closed every Monday
Tuesday - Friday: 8:30-20:15
Saturday: 8:30-16:30
Sunday: 8:30-14:30
Holidays: 8:30-14:30
The Castle of the Christian King, or Castillo de los Reyes Cristianos, was built in the 14th century and served as a royal residence during the Christian Reconquista. It is a symbol of Spain’s Christian conquest of southern Andalusia and has significant historical and architectural value.
Located in the heart of Córdoba, the Castle of the Christian King is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or on foot. From the Mezquita-Catedral, it is about a 10-minute walk.
The castle is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with longer hours during the summer months. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist crowds.
The entrance fee is around 5 EUR for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance online.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). Tickets can be booked online up to a few days in advance.
Plan for about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the castle and its grounds, including the museum and the gardens.
The must-see areas include the castle’s towers, the picturesque gardens, and the museum exhibits showcasing the history of the castle and the region.
Guided tours are available in Spanish and English, and audio guides are offered in several languages, including Spanish, English, and French.
The best views are from the top of the castle’s towers, offering a panoramic view of Córdoba and its surrounding landscapes, including the Guadalquivir River.
Start by exploring the towers and courtyards, then visit the museum. Finish with a relaxing stroll through the gardens, which offer beautiful views of the castle and surrounding area.
Night visits are available during the summer months, offering a unique opportunity to see the castle illuminated at night. Check the schedule for special events like night tours or cultural performances.
The castle can be crowded, especially during weekends and summer months. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning or during weekdays in the off-season (autumn or winter).
The castle offers toilets, a small café, and a souvenir shop. There are also rest areas in the gardens where visitors can relax.
The castle is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may have limited accessibility due to its historic nature. The main areas, including the museum and gardens, are wheelchair-friendly.
Both cash and cards are accepted at the entrance and for purchases in the souvenir shop. Mobile payments are also available at most locations within the castle.
There are several restaurants and cafes nearby, offering Andalusian cuisine and tapas. Try "Bodegas Campos" or "Taberna El Cacho" for a traditional experience.
Yes, many nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some cater to halal diets as well. Look for Mediterranean and Spanish restaurants for a variety of choices.
Some nearby hotels include the "Eurostars Palacio de la Mezquita" and "Balcon de Cordoba," both offering comfortable stays near the historic center.
Nearby attractions include the Mezquita-Catedral, the Roman Bridge, and the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos. These can all be visited in a day trip, along with the Castle of the Christian King.
Yes, there are souvenir shops inside the castle and around the area, selling items like ceramics, traditional Andalusian tiles, local wines, and handmade jewelry.
After visiting the castle, you can continue your trip by taxi or bus. The train station is also nearby for those traveling to other cities in Spain.
