Tribute Tower

From the Tower of the Lions we head for the Tribute Tower, connected by the only wall walk used at the moment, the one on the northern wall. This walk might have been very important in the complex of the Alcázar, although it is difficult to guess, since the northern wall was completely rebuilt from this place.

The section of the Tribute Tower has more height than width; it is a dominant tower, the most impressive, with an octagonal floor. The use of the Gothic architecture was not exquisite, such as in the entrance hall or the hall, free of any fineness in their design. We can see that the hand that made this building was not as skilled as in the Tower of the Lions, made by French masters, but in this case, it is believed that it could have been built by Spanish disciples who lack that quality. They erected a four-rib hexagonal and irregular vault, where two of its ribs are extended through apparent pendentives. The capitals, where the ribs finish, were carved in situ, although in some cases this was not done.

The main hall has an octagonal floor, short and not very slim columns, and a high vault, whose ribs rest on magnificent capitals decorated with reliefs of vegetable motifs. According to the tradition, this hall was the place where the first reception of the Christian Monarchs with Christopher Columbus took place. The higher terrace of the tower can be accessed through a straight stairway, where light comes from two rose windows. Its steps are held by corbels decorated with fine mouldings.

From the Tribute Tower we head for the Hall of the Mosaics, and therefore we need to go back along the wall walk, go down the stairs and across the entrance gallery. A rectangular gallery, divided by four basket arches, where brick and white walls are perfectly mixed.

If you wish to know the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs and its Tribute Tower, do not hesitate to hire one of our guided tours. We are experts in the interpretation of the historic heritage from Córdoba. If you have chosen to do sightseeing in Córdoba, choose a high quality option, choose ArtenCórdoba.

Text: J.A.S.C.