Undoubtedly, the stop at the Courtyard on 7, Martín de Roa Street is a very special one, since it is one of those courtyards that captivates those who visit it, full of taste for the old and the good ways of its owners.

We are received by Rosa María Collado, one of its youngest residents. She tells us that nowadays there are five families living here. This courtyard has been chosen on several occasions to publicize the festival in May, such as a famous campaign by the train company RENFE, which chose the courtyard as the image to decorate all the train stations in Spain. She shows us newspapers, magazines, cards, posters,… a real collection of incalculable value.

All kinds of characters from different places have enjoyed this unique place. She mentions the famous flamenco dancer Joaquín Cortés, journalist Carlos Herrera, who was captivated by its beauty; or even bullfighter Enrique Ponce and his wife Paloma Lago, who decided to have a photographic report right there.

Rosa constantly mentions Dolores de la Haba, who, according to our host, was the highest author of the courtyard we see today. Dolores was awarded the “Gitanilla de Oro” (Golden Geranium) for her selfless effort in this place.

An iron gate leads us to the courtyard, and the first thing we notice when entering is its zig-zag shape, as it is full of corners, although this arrangement makes it very original and it does not prevent each corner from being decorated with the typical pots, full of geraniums, roses, hydrangeas… among others. Besides, a distinctive touch is added by the roofs at different levels, the balconies full of flowers, the small stairway half hidden among more plants, the whitewashed well and the outdoor washing sinks.

It has been awarded numerous prizes in the last years. We can highlight the first prize in 1988, the second one in 1993, or the secondary prizes in 1989, 1990, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2003, 2004, 2006 or 2012.

If you are not sure what to do in Córdoba, we recommend you visit the Courtyards in Córdoba hiring one of our guided tours. We will dedicate there a special chapter to the Courtyard on 7, Martín de Roa Street. Choose to do high quality sightseeing with qualified staff. Do not hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.