Superior Housing

The complex known as the Upper Residences consists of two similar buildings characterized by the distribution of their rooms around large square courtyards — with ashlar pavement and elevated perimeter platforms — which constitute the most important spaces of the residences. The western one had four bays around the courtyard, although today only rooms on three of its sides remain; the eastern one has a more irregular shape, due to the construction of a ramp in the space of its west bay that connected to the lower terrace of the alcazar. In this way, the mode of access to the so-called private sector underwent a fundamental transformation.

Access and Functional Elements

Access to these residences was from the sloped street — on the eastern part of the alcazar — which connected from the southern step with the “Trapezoidal Space“. This entrance was closed off in the western residence by placing a latrine at its entrance, next to the door. In the center of the courtyards, rectangular marble basins were installed to supply water to these residences. Additionally, each one had latrines, which were cleaned using small basins, one of which is preserved in the eastern residence.

Internal Organization and Use of Spaces

Originally, the residences — which were part of the alcazar’s original design — were organized around spacious rooms, some of which had an upper floor or loft, with single-pitch tiled roofs draining into the courtyard. The room space was subdivided using coarser materials and construction techniques, indicating a more intensive use of these areas.

The Western Residence

The most important room in the western residence, located at the center of its northern side, had alcoves at the ends and a latrine, indicating that it was occupied by an important figure at court.

The Eastern Residence

The needs of the western residence were served from the eastern residence, which, in addition to alcoves, had a kitchen built in the courtyard and a room where meat was butchered.

Function and Significance Within the Alcazar

Therefore, the residential function of the western residence is clear, although its location within the alcazar, controlling access to the lower terraces, indicates that it was also used by part of the palace guard. In contrast, the eastern residence was the arrival point for food to the palace, which shows its domestic character (service area for the western residence), confirmed by the discovery of abundant ceramic material in its drains.

Visiting the Upper Residences

If you’re unsure what to do in Córdoba, we recommend visiting the Archaeological Complex of Medina Azahara by booking one of our guided tours. There we will pay special attention to the Upper Residences and their importance within the site. Choose quality tourism with qualified staff — don’t hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: Jesús Pijuán.