Mosaic Hall

After passing through the entrance gallery, you will find the so-called Hall of Mosaics, a room with a distinctly Baroque style. Built in the 18th century, it is located on the north wall of the Alcázar, directly above the vaults of the Mudéjar Royal Baths. Since its construction, it served as the Chapel of the Inquisition and later as the Prison Chapel.

Architecture of the Hall of Mosaics

The current Hall of Mosaics has a rectangular floor plan, covered by a vault with lunettes and transverse arches decorated with geometric motifs typical of Córdoba in the first half of the 18th century. At the far end is a square space covered by a dome set on pendentives formed by semicircular arches. The dome is topped with a lantern decorated on the outside with geometric motifs and spherical finials.

The Roman mosaics of the hall

This hall gets its name from the numerous high-quality mosaics adorning its walls. The mosaics were unearthed from beneath the Plaza de la Corredera, where it was once believed that the old Roman amphitheater may have been located—a theory now dismissed.

The Ocean mosaic

Near the entrance is the Ocean mosaic, a representation of the son of Uranus and Gaia, God of the waters. He appears in the center surrounded by marine beings, depicted with great expressive force. Of gigantic proportions, his eyebrows and cheeks show membranes and scales, while dolphins emerge from his thick beard.

The large mosaic on the left side

The largest mosaic occupies almost the entire surface of the left side. Rectangular in shape, it features a border decorated with dolphins and anchors that frames a central motif composed of linear and geometric elements.

The mime mosaic

Another noteworthy mosaic is located above the left entrance, depicting a mime during a theatrical performance. Unlike other examples, here the artist seeks a sense of depth, noticeable in the building in the background. The mime appears with a mask and staff, mimicking a character.

The Four Seasons and Psyche and Cupid

To the right of the hall is a mosaic incomplete in its lower left margin, depicting the four seasons of the year arranged in medallions framed with cords. At its center is the fable of Psyche and Cupid, shown embracing.

The mosaic of Polyphemus and Galatea

Among all the pieces on display, the mosaic of Polyphemus and Galatea stands out, highly praised for its mastery and virtuosity. The great Cordoban poet Luis de Góngora wrote about this story:

Oh beautiful Galatea, gentler
than the carnations plucked by Dawn;
whiter than the feathers of that bird
who sweetly dies and dwells in the waters;
equal in splendor to the bird who, solemn,
adorns his blue cloak with as many eyes
as the heavenly sapphire has stars.
Oh you who unite the fairest in one!

It is a work of exceptional virtuosity: notable for the anatomical treatment of the figures, the water beneath Galatea, the rock where Polyphemus sits, and the mountainous landscape that frames the scene.

Visiting the Hall of Mosaics

If you’re unsure what to do in Córdoba, we recommend visiting the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs and its Hall of Mosaics by booking one of our guided tours. Choose quality tourism with qualified professionals: ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.