Day 80 - España Solo - Córdoba II

Zaki and I woked up early to have breakfast at the hostel. Most importantly, we want to head to the Mezquita for the free entrance period.

But there was a slight problem at the Mezquita. They don't allow big bags like my backpack in. So I had to walk back to the hostel, who kindly let me store my backpack securely for free, and walk back to the Mezquita. I have no idea why they don't allow my bag in, and there was no cloakroom somemore. I guess it's disrespectful to bring such a big bag to a religious site. Then again, probably the lady at the hostel is right when she said "They were probably worried that you'll steal the Mezquita with your bag"

By then, Zaki was almost done with the Mezquita, and was rushing off for the bus to the Medina Palace.

The famous forest of pillars in the Mezquita. It's suppose to evoke the feeling of palm trees.

I'm a sucker for Arabesque designs.

A Cathedral in the middle of the Mezquita. When Alfonso the (can't remember the number) re-conquered Spain from the Moors, he stressed that the architecture of the Mezquita must be retained with minimal changes. Indeed, much of the Mezquita has been remained.

I think it is this wall that points to Mecca.

There were other panels depicting stories from the Bible, but like I said, I'm a sucker for Arabesque designs.

The huge courtyard within the Mezquita.

I'm not sure if this is a modern addition, but I love how Arabic and European elements integrate on this gate!

I'm so in love with the Mezquita.

Next I headed off to the Fortress of Alcazar, where the Christian Kings resided. Unfortunately, all the descriptions were written in Spanish, so I couldn't learn more about the place.

The huge Gardens of Alcazar. An unfortunately drizzly day.

Ponds leading to the fortress.

I went on to explore Córdoba.

And you thought the Merlion was the only "vomiting" fountain.

Think this wall would be gorgeous when the flowers are in full bloom in summer.

A small synagogue in the Jewish Quarters. Strangely, Arabesque designs were used.

Spotted this poster on my way to Plaza Corredera. A tribute to my fellow Machas.

A welcome break from my usual bread and tuna - Egg sandwich.

The market. Seems familiar doesn't it? I was wondering why there was a rabbit hanging from a stall. And I realise it's a butcher selling it.

1 pm at Plaza Corredera. Why so quiet? Cause Spanish lunch time starts at 2pm odd. Many non-eating shops in Córdoba follows the Spanish tradition of closing their shop to go home for lunch, and reopen at about 3 or 4pm.

Spontaneous dancing. I have no idea what's the occasion, but there were more of these travelling bands of men in black and red sash today.

Bar Santos, as recommended by Lonely Planet. Good place to try cheap Tapas.

Spanish Omelette. It was good, and only €1.50!

I was done exploring most of Córdoba, and decided to head back to the Mezquita area. I've fallen in love with this wonderful small city, that ooze so much charm.

More travelling bands. I seriously have no idea what's the occasion.

The courtyard of the Mezquita. Sunnier weather at last.

I basically sat around the area to wait for night fall, for night shots and my overnight train. In the meantime, I became the official photographer for 7 groups of people. :P

The Mezquita at night. It's just so gorgeous.

The Roman Bridge at night. I wonder if they'll turn off the lights for Earth Hour today?

The very modern Córdoba train station. Bumped into Zaki here, who's taking an earlier train. He complained about the palace being "nothing much" and poorly maintained. Thank goodness I gave it a miss.

Getting down to the platform. Due to the 2004 Madrid Train Bombings, you have to have your belongings scanned before going on to the platform.

I think Córdoba is my favourite European city now. Off to Barcelona!