The perfect Garden

The Fortress of the Christian Monarchs is one of Cordoba’s major landmarks. Built in the 8th century as caliphate residence, this complex of buildings and gardens had reached major significance during the Middle Ages, when Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella had been residing there for eight years. The Alcázar is a composition of massive fortress and royal palace. The Alcázar leaves behind a changeful history. After the palace buildings in their actual appearance were erected by Alfonso XI in 1328, the Alcázar was the site where the monarchs held court for as many as 160 years. The Alcázar is the place where Ferdinand and Isabella welcomed Christopher Columbus who explained his plans to find a westbound sea route to India. Later, during inquisition times, the fortress became a forum and was used as civil and military jail. In 1931, the municipality declared the fortress a historic architectural monument. Since 1984, the Royal Fortress has been world cultural heritage. The fortress houses several remarkable ancient artifacts, including Roman sarcophaguses from the third century and tessellations from the second century. These treasures are on display in the fortress’ halls. However, the major attraction of the Royal Fortress are its magnificent backyard gardens. Beautiful fountains, bassins and well-cut hedges give evidence of advanced Moorish horticulture experience which was taken over by their Christian followers. The entire fortress is encircled by massive walls with four towers: Lion’s Tower, River Tower, Homenaje Tower and Vela Tower.

( Córdoba 2009 February)