Córdoba, Córdoba, Andalusia, Spain
Archaeological Site / Palace City · Umayyad · 10th Century
Medina Azahara was a palatine city built by Abd-ar-Rahman III, the first Umayyad Caliph of Córdoba. It functioned as the de facto capital of al-Andalus. Today it is a major archaeological site revealing the grandeur of the 10th-century Caliphate.
Construction: 936 AD – 940s AD
Founder: Abd al-Rahman III
Key figures: Abd al-Rahman III, Al-Hakam II
Significance: The shining city built to symbolize the power and legitimacy of the Caliphate of Córdoba.
- 936: Construction ordered by Abd al-Rahman III
- 945: Court moves to the new city
- 1010: Sacked and destroyed during the Fitna of al-Andalus
Architectural styles: Umayyad, Islamic
Materials: Marble, Stucco, Gold, Precious stones
- Salon Rico: The reception hall of Abd al-Rahman III, famous for its red and white arches and vegetal ornamentation.
- House of Ja'far: Residence of the prime minister, showcasing domestic architecture of the period.
- Grand Portico: Ceremonial entrance for embassies and dignitaries.
Opening hours: 09:00 - 15:00 (summer) · 09:00 - 18:00 (winter) – Closed Mondays. Night visits available in summer.
- EU Citizens: €0.00
- Non-EU: €1.50
Accessibility: Partial access. Shuttle bus required from museum to site.
Official site: http://www.medinaazahara.org
Address: Ctra. Palma del Río, km 5.5, 14005 Córdoba, Spain
Coordinates: 37.886, -4.867