Casa Andalusí, Córdoba
Historic Building and Museum in Córdoba
Casa Andalusí is one of the must-see places in Córdoba for travellers seeking an intimate look at domestic life during the era of Al-Andalus. Tucked away in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, steps from the Synagogue, this house-museum blends Moorish, Andalusian, and Eastern architectural influences to recreate the refined atmosphere of Córdoba in the 1100s. Its peaceful courtyard, delicate tiles, and small thematic rooms make it one of the top attractions in Córdoba for those who prefer quieter, more immersive cultural sites.
Often visited on walking tours of Córdoba's historic heart, Casa Andalusí offers a welcome break from the busier streets, drawing visitors into a world of fountains, manuscripts, mosaics, and soft Andalusian light.
History and Significance of Casa Andalusí
Casa Andalusí was opened to the public in 1997, designed as a faithful recreation of a traditional Andalusian home from the 12th century, when Córdoba was a thriving center of learning, philosophy, mathematics, poetry, and craftsmanship. Though not an original surviving house from that period, it has been meticulously constructed using traditional design principles, materials, and aesthetics to evoke the refinement of domestic life during the Islamic Caliphate.
The house sits in one of the most historically layered corners of Córdoba, with Roman, Jewish, and Islamic influences woven into the architecture of the neighbourhood. One of its most significant elements is the Roman mosaic found in the cellar - a reminder that Córdoba's urban history spans millennia.
Casa Andalusí also pays homage to the city's legacy as a major hub for scientific and intellectual innovation, particularly through its exhibition on early paper-making techniques. This educational element underscores Córdoba's role in the transmission of knowledge during the medieval period.
Things to See and Do in Casa Andalusí
Casa Andalusí’s charm begins the moment you enter its tranquil courtyard. Filled with plants, patterned tiles, and the sound of trickling water, this space exemplifies the cooling and contemplative atmosphere typical of Moorish homes. These shaded patios were essential features of Andalusian architecture, offering relief from the summer heat while functioning as the heart of the household.
Inside, several atmospheric rooms display objects related to medieval Islamic culture, including ceramics, manuscripts, scientific instruments, and decorative household pieces. Each room is curated to convey the aesthetics and lifestyle of 12th-century Córdoba.
In the basement, the Roman mosaic adds archaeological depth to the visit, connecting the site with Córdoba's ancient past. The house also features the Museo del Papel, where you can learn about the introduction of paper-making during the Caliphate and how Córdoba became one of Europe's earliest centres of paper production.
A small shop at the end of the visit sells North African crafts, books, and handmade items, making it a pleasant final stop before heading back into the narrow alleys of the Jewish Quarter.
How to Get to Casa Andalusí
Córdoba is served by Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport and Seville Airport, both with frequent international and domestic flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Córdoba on Booking.com.
Visitors arriving by train can take advantage of Córdoba's high-speed AVE links to Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. From the station, Casa Andalusí is about a 25-30 minute walk through the historic centre. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If travelling by car, follow the signs toward Córdoba’s old town and park in one of the nearby public garages, as the Jewish Quarter’s narrow lanes are pedestrian only. 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 Casa Andalusí
- Best time to visit Casa Andalusí: Late morning or early afternoon when the courtyards are beautifully lit.
- Entrance fee in Euros: A small fee applies.
- Opening hours: Generally open daily; hours vary by season.
- Official website: Check local tourism resources for updates.
- How long to spend: 20-40 minutes.
- Accessibility: Some steps and narrow areas; not fully accessible.
- Facilities: Small shop; no café on site.
- Photography tip: The courtyard fountain framed by tiled walls makes an excellent shot.
- Guided tours: Included in some Jewish Quarter walking tours.
- Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and tapas bars within a short walk.
Where to Stay close to Casa Andalusí
Staying in or near the Jewish Quarter makes visiting Casa Andalusí easy and atmospheric. A lovely nearby choice is NH Collection Amistad Córdoba, set in historic interconnected mansions. For boutique charm, Balcón de Córdoba offers beautiful terraces and quiet elegance. Another comfortable option is Hotel Eurostars Conquistador, just steps from the Mezquita.
Is Casa Andalusí Worth Visiting?
Yes, Casa Andalusí is worth visiting. Its intimate scale, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful Moorish-inspired design make it a refreshing complement to Córdoba's grander monuments. Whether you're interested in domestic architecture, Islamic heritage, or simply a quiet corner full of cultural charm, this small house-museum is a delightful stop in the Jewish Quarter.
What Other Travellers Say...
Casa Andalusí on C. Judíos, 12, in Córdoba's Centro is a small, cozy museum housed in a typical Andalusian house where visitors stroll through decorated walls, courtyards with fountains, a basement and wells, and a charming library; exhibits include artifacts, a Roman mosaic and a display (including a model) explaining the development of papermaking, with multilingual guide leaflets and friendly staff who provide helpful introductions—visitors recommend it despite some exhibits lacking descriptive panels, and entry is inexpensive.
FAQs for Visiting Casa Andalusí
Nearby Attractions to Casa Andalusí
- Córdoba Synagogue: One of Spain's best-preserved medieval synagogues.
- Jewish Quarter: A maze of atmospheric lanes and patios.
- Casa de Sefarad: A museum dedicated to Sephardic culture.
- Zoco Municipal: A traditional artisan market with workshops.
- Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba: The city's most iconic monument, a short walk away.
The Casa Andalusí 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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Planning Your Visit
10.30am-7.30pm Apr-Oct, 10am-7pm Nov-Mar
€4
Nearby Attractions
- Casa de Sefarad (0.0) km
Museum - Judería de Córdoba (0.0) km
Area - Sinagoga (0.0) km
Synagogue - El Zoco (0.1) km
Market - Almodóvar Gate (0.1) km
City Gate - Statue of Maimónides (0.1) km
Statue - Capilla de San Bartolomé (0.1) km
Church - Museo Taurino (0.1) km
Museum - Plaza Maimónides (0.1) km
Square and Statue - Hospital del Cardenal Salazar (0.1) km
Historic Building
