By Rachel Webb
Just over an hour from home the stunning city of Córdoba beckons again and again. We gave in and spent a weekend there instead of hurried day trips. How fabulous to wander the streets at twilight and see the city come alive again after the lull during the mid-day heat.
We didn´t see the sights, this trip was all about eating there. Trying the local dishes, seeking out new corners away from the hub of the Mezquita and Jewish Quarter, which are fabulous, but very busy. The time to see the monuments is definitely not in August, but then as near-ish neighbours we are spoilt, having the ability to return. We´ve done the sights, the monuments, the shows and yet we return and are always drawn by its culture, history, and the sheer buzz of the exploring the narrow streets, spotting new charming nooks, and thoroughly enjoying the food scene.
The thrum and hub of a city is a huge draw. The ability to go from quirky bar to posh restaurant, from tiny plaza to enormous ones and to be a part of the bustle of people. The babble of different languages is exotic too for us countryside dwellers. As much as we love the hubbub, we love the peace of home. So a weekend for us – and our feet is sufficient.
One of the huge draws of going in July or August is the free Flamenco shows the Town Hall puts on three nights a week – admission free until full. The longest we sat still all weekend was for our jaw-dropping attention to the guitarist, singer, clapper and dancer on a rooftop next to the River Guadalquivir. Córdoba we´ll be back – again.