PATIOS FESTIVAL IN CÓRDOBA

After a lovely evening in cordoba, we woke the next day bright eyed and not quite so bushy tailed ready to explore and discover the patios.

Starting in 1918, The Patio contests is sponsored by the Córdoba City Hall. To really understand why a contest of this type was created in Córdoba, here is a little insight into the local architecture.

Black broderie anglais dress Zara, Black bag Zara 

As Córdoba is hot and dry in climate the homes here were built with a central patio even back in the days of the Romans. This tradition was continued by the Moors and persists in many homes even today.
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Im told that Filling the central patio with plants and water features was a way to keep local homes cool. 

But, thanks to the creativity of the owners, patio decoration has now taken on a life all its own and at some point, someone realised that these hidden treasures were just too special to be kept tucked away behind heavy doors and iron grates. ​

It really is something very special to be able to get a view of these historic and private homes 

And so,  once a year the doors open to the public and everyone is invited in to see the wonders of Córdoba’s patios and the owners get to do some showing off 

Layered with every shade of flower, some of the displays are are truly magical 

What I loved about the patios was how different they all were. But I have to admit that this one in particular was my favourite of the patios we saw that day. What a colour riot!

Even without the fabulous patio festival, Corboba is just the beautiful place 

Streets filled with style and history and gorgeous Andalusian sun. All the while the exotic scent of jasmine and orange blossom fill the air.

We found the cutest little market selling local produce and gifts just before stopping for a cafe con leche and freshly squeezed Zumo de Naranja.

Do you have a favourite Spanish town? Cordoba is firmly at the top of my list...

Xx
Belle

For more from Cordoba see here. For more adventures in Spain see here and here