Almodóvar Gate, Córdoba

City Gate in Córdoba

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Michael Bryan

The Puerta de Almodóvar is one of Córdoba's most impressive surviving medieval gates and one of the best places to visit in Córdoba for travellers exploring the Judería. Along with the Puerta del Puente and Puerta de Sevilla, it is one of only three gates that remain from the city's extensive medieval fortifications. Located on the western stretch of the old wall, the gate marks the transition between the historic centre and the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, making it a highlight of many walking tours of Córdoba's old town.

The setting around the gate adds to its charm. A bronze statue of the Cordovan philosopher Seneca stands nearby, and the landscaped gardens and stream created in the late 20th century make this one of the most pleasant spots for a stroll at sunset. It's an ideal place to pause before heading into the maze of alleys that characterise the Judería.

A Short History of the Puerta de Almodóvar
What Does the Puerta de Almodóvar Look Like?
Where Does the Puerta de Almodóvar Get Its Name?
How to Get to the Puerta de Almodóvar
Practical Tips on Visiting the Puerta de Almodóvar
Where to Stay Close to the Puerta de Almodóvar
Is the Puerta de Almodóvar Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Puerta de Almodóvar
Nearby Attractions to the Puerta de Almodóvar

A Short History of the Puerta de Almodóvar

The Puerta de Almodóvar has ancient origins. It is the only surviving example of the nine gates constructed in the 8th century under the orders of Emir Abd ar-Rahman I, when Córdoba began its rise to prominence as the capital of Al-Andalus. Little of the original Islamic structure remains today, though traces can still be seen in the battlements and upper walkway (adarve).

The gate we see today is largely the result of 14th-century Christian reconstruction, when the structure was rebuilt and fortified with two defensive towers linked by a slightly pointed arch. These additions gave the gate much of its current medieval appearance. It underwent further restoration in 1802.

Throughout its long history, the Puerta de Almodóvar has been a major western access point to Córdoba, especially for those entering the city from rural towns and the fertile countryside beyond the Guadalquivir River.

What Does the Puerta de Almodóvar Look Like?

The gate is a striking example of medieval urban defence architecture:

A pointed central arch framed by two robust towers
Stone battlements crowning the structure
A walkway running along the top, once used by sentries
Solid masonry walls forming part of Córdoba’s surviving fortifications

The surrounding area has been beautified with gardens, flowing water features, and pathways, creating a tranquil space beneath the centuries-old walls. The nearby bronze statue of Seneca, one of Córdoba’s most renowned philosophers, is a popular photo stop.

Where Does the Puerta de Almodóvar Get Its Name?

The name comes from the old road that linked Córdoba with Almodóvar del Río, a town located around 23 km to the west. In Arabic, the gate was called Bab al-Chawz - known in Spanish as Puerta del Nogal, or Walnut Gate. Over the centuries it has also been known as Puerta de los Judíos (Gate of the Jews) and Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice), reflecting its proximity to the Jewish Quarter and its administrative role during medieval times.

How to Get to the Puerta de Almodóvar

The Puerta de Almodóvar is very easy to reach and is located close to several major landmarks.

If travelling by train, it is about a 20-25 minute walk from Córdoba Central station, heading toward the historic centre and the Judería. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Several bus routes pass close to the gate; lines 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 12 all stop nearby.
You can also reach it easily on foot from Cairuán Street, just a short walk from the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos.

Travelling by car is not recommended inside the Judería, but there are car parks in the modern centre from which you can walk to the gate within 10-15 minutes. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Puerta de Almodóvar

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
Entrance fee: Free; it is an outdoor monument.
How long to spend: 10-20 minutes, or longer if combining with a walk through the walls and Judería.
Photography tip: Capture the gate from Cairuán Street with the water channel in the foreground.
Accessibility: The area around the gate is mostly level and easy to access.
Nearby food options: The Judería has many traditional restaurants within a 2-5 minute walk.

Where to Stay Close to the Puerta de Almodóvar

Staying in the Judería gives perfect access to the gate and surrounding attractions. A charming option is Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba, set among historic courtyards. Another nearby choice is Eurostars Conquistador, close to the Mezquita. For a contemporary stay, Hospes Palacio del Bailío offers luxury within walking distance of the old walls.

Is the Puerta de Almodóvar Worth Visiting?

Yes - the Puerta de Almodóvar is one of Córdoba's most atmospheric surviving gateways. Its medieval architecture, beautiful surroundings, and direct access to the Jewish Quarter make it a must-see stop when exploring the city. Whether you're interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful corner of Córdoba, it's a rewarding place to visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (186)

Puerta de Almodóvar is the western gate into Córdoba's old city that opens onto a small plaza and the start of Calle Judíos leading into the Jewish Quarter; visitors praise its Moorish character and photogenic presence, note a pleasant wall-side walk with fountains, trees and shady spots, and say it's a charming, lively access point to shops, cafés, picturesque white buildings and hidden courtyards best enjoyed both day and night.

Tomi Valny

8 months ago

"main gate entrance to the old city of Cordoba from the west. Entry is directly to small piazza and Calle Judios, begi ing of the Jewish quarter.Impressive Moorish gate..."

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Amanda Do elley

2 years ago

"This wall walk is very cool, it runs along fountains and trees and very park like. It is a great walk area the morning early afternoon it was in theshadenThe other side of the door was entrance to the Jewish history area also shops and cafes and the cool while buildings very picturesque, found a few courtyards and market areas..."

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X King

2 years ago

"Beautiful access wall to the Jewish quarter in Cordoba. Stu ing landmark, very charming and great space to understand part of the history of Cordoba.I like it specially at night where plenty of locals and visitors walk the streets...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Puerta de Almodóvar

No, the upper walkway is not open to the public.

Yes, the gate and surrounding gardens are beautifully lit after dark.

Yes, it forms part of the western section of Córdoba’s medieval fortifications.

Yes, it is one of the main entrances into the Jewish Quarter.

Absolutely - the gardens and stream make it a pleasant family-friendly stop.

Nearby Attractions to the Puerta de Almodóvar

Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos - A short walk away.
Calle Cairuán - Scenic walkway along the medieval walls.
Judería - Córdoba's historic Jewish Quarter.
Sinagoga de Córdoba - One of Spain's last remaining medieval synagogues.
Casa de Sefarad - Museum of Sephardic heritage.

The Almodóvar Gate appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Córdoba!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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