Synagogue of Córdoba
Of all the monuments preserved in our city, the Synagogue of Córdoba is probably the least known. However, in this section we will try to demonstrate that it is a building of great importance from an artistic, historical, social, and political point of view. It is the only example of its kind preserved to this day in Andalusia, bearing inscriptions of outstanding quality that place it at the forefront of this type of construction in our country.
History and uses of the building
The Synagogue of Córdoba has witnessed numerous historical events, such as the expulsion of the Jews, which led to its use as a hospital, specifically for hydrophobia patients. Later, it became a chapel where the city’s shoemakers’ guild had its brotherhood. Finally, it was used as a preschool until, in 1884, a series of inscriptions were discovered, which led to a thorough restoration process.
A unique monument in Andalusia
The Synagogue of Córdoba is the only example of its kind in Andalusia, located in the Jewish Quarter, and one of the most visited monuments.
The mentioned inscriptions were studied by the academic Don Rafael Romero Barros, who was, in fact, the father of the renowned Cordoban painter Julio Romero de Torres. A year later, in 1885, the Synagogue of Córdoba was declared a National Monument. At that time, the building was owned by the Church and was transferred to the State by the Bishop. However, it was not until 1981 that it was officially registered as such, thanks to Don Manuel Nieto Cumplido, current archivist of the Mosque-Cathedral and then Provincial Delegate for Culture, who registered it in 1981 as State property.
The Synagogue of Córdoba today
Today, perhaps due to its location within the Jewish Quarter, and therefore near the most important monuments of the city, the Synagogue of Córdoba is one of the most visited by tourists. Alongside the Mosque and the Alcázar of the Christian Monarchs, this building clearly reflects the cultural diversity of our city—a clear example of the coexistence between the different civilizations that have passed through Córdoba.
Structure of the study
Below we have prepared a brief analysis of the presence of Jews in our city, dedicating a special section to the Synagogue, their temple. We then present a brief study of the Cordoban building, focusing mainly on its stylistic features. Next, we discuss the various inscriptions found within the complex, and finally, we present a photo gallery so that the information can be completed in the best possible way.
Guided tours
If you wish to visit the Synagogue of Córdoba, do not hesitate to book one of our guided tours. We are experts in the interpretation of Córdoba’s historical heritage. If you have chosen to do tourism in Córdoba, choose a quality option—choose ArtenCórdoba.
Text: J.A.S.C.
The Synagogue of Córdoba is a building of great artistic, historical, and social value, being the only preserved example of medieval synagogue architecture in Andalusia and one of the most significant in Spain.
After the expulsion of the Jews, the Synagogue was used as a rabies hospital, later as a chapel for the shoemakers' guild, and finally as a kindergarten until its rediscovery in 1884.
The Synagogue of Córdoba was declared a National Monument in 1885, a year after the discovery of its Hebrew inscriptions, thanks to the interest of the scholar Rafael Romero Barros.
The Synagogue preserves Hebrew inscriptions of notable quality, which were key to its historical and artistic valuation, and reinforce its importance as a place of worship and Jewish memory.
Currently, the Synagogue of Córdoba is one of the most visited monuments in the city and can be explored through specialized guided tours offered by ArtenCórdoba, experts in Cordoban heritage.
Table of contents
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