Hospital del Cardenal Salazar, Córdoba

Historic Building in Córdoba

Hospital del Cardenal Salazar
Hospital del Cardenal Salazar
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Tibor Kovacs

The Hospital del Cardenal Salazar is one of the must-see places in Córdoba for travellers interested in Baroque architecture, hidden courtyards, and the layered social history of La Judería. Founded in 1704 by Cardinal Pedro de Salazar Gutiérrez de Toledo, the building served everything from a school for choirboys to a hospital for the terminally ill before becoming part of the University of Córdoba. Its elegant stone façade, serene patios, and historic corridors make it one of the top attractions in Córdoba for those who enjoy exploring lesser-known gems.

Set in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, the building is often visited on walking tours of Córdoba, especially by travellers who want to explore the nearby Saint Bartholomew Chapel, another treasure within the same complex.

History and Significance of Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

The hospital was founded in 1704 by Cardinal Pedro de Salazar, Bishop of Córdoba, originally envisioned as a college for choirboys. However, at the request of the city, it was soon transformed into a general hospital, reflecting Córdoba's need for expanded medical care. Over the centuries, it evolved from a school for poor children into a hospital for the terminally ill - a testament to the city's shifting social priorities.

Architect Juan Antonio Camacho de Saavedra designed the building, giving it a distinguished Baroque character. The façade is especially impressive, with Doric-columned pilasters framing a grand arched entrance. Inside, the building’s arrangement around two central courtyards echoes the layout of traditional Andalusian institutions, combining practicality with serenity.

Today, the building houses the Faculty of Philosophy and Arts of the University of Córdoba, but its earlier history remains visible everywhere - from the scratched names of former patients on old windowpanes to the Mudejar-influenced Saint Bartholomew Chapel located elsewhere within the complex.

Things to See and Do in Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

Visitors can admire the striking Baroque façade from Calle Cardeñas, where the stonework, Doric columns, and carved entrance immediately stand out against the narrow streets of La Judería. Once inside, the building's calm atmosphere contrasts with the busy neighbourhood outside.

The two central courtyards are among the highlights. The larger patio features harmonious arcades and an elegant marble fountain that once offered a soothing focal point for patients and staff. The second courtyard is smaller but equally atmospheric, with architectural features typical of early 18th-century Córdoba.

Walk the long corridors of the former hospital and look closely at the small windowpanes - many still bear names and dates scratched into the glass by patients who spent their final days here. This poignant detail offers a powerful sense of the building’s former function.

Don't miss the nearby Saint Bartholomew Chapel, accessible within the same architectural complex. This Gothic-Mudejar treasure enriches any visit and provides insight into the layered history of the area.

How to Get to Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

Córdoba is well connected by nearby airports including Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport and Seville Airport, both offering a range of international and domestic flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Córdoba on Booking.com.

Reaching Córdoba by train is convenient thanks to the high-speed AVE network that links the city with Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. The hospital is about a 20-25 minute walk from the station. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, Córdoba's main highways provide easy access, and central parking facilities allow visitors to reach the Jewish Quarter comfortably on foot. 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 Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

  • Best time to visit Hospital del Cardenal Salazar: Morning or early afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Usually free, though access may be limited when University activities are in session.
  • Opening hours: Vary depending on university schedules.
  • Official website: Check the University of Córdoba’s Faculty of Philosophy and Arts pages for updates.
  • How long to spend: 20-40 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Courtyards and corridors are accessible; some older areas may have steps.
  • Facilities: Located within the university complex; cafés nearby in La Judería.
  • Photography tip: Capture the main courtyard’s marble fountain framed by the arches.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally included in Jewish Quarter walking tours.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of tapas bars and cafés surrounding the area.

Where to Stay close to Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

Staying in La Judería offers convenient access to the hospital, the Mezquita, and many other historic sites. Consider Las Casas de la Judería, known for its traditional patios. For modern comfort close to the Jewish Quarter, Eurostars Conquistador is a great option. Travellers seeking a boutique experience may enjoy Soho Boutique Museo.

Is Hospital del Cardenal Salazar Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Hospital del Cardenal Salazar is worth visiting for its striking Baroque architecture, peaceful courtyards, and poignant reminders of its medical past. Its connection to the Saint Bartholomew Chapel and central location in the Jewish Quarter make it a rewarding stop for travellers seeking cultural depth beyond the city's major monuments.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (28)

Hospital del Cardenal Salazar, on Pl. Cardenal Salazar in Córdoba's Centro, is a handsome historic building now used by the University of Córdoba that visitors enjoy popping into for a look around; people note it hosts free music concerts and contains a cafeteria where lunch can be affordable, making it an easy stop while wandering the Jewish Quarter.

Sarah
a month ago
"Great to pop in for a look round and grab lunch in the cafe. Beautiful building"
Zumba Sandy
a year ago
"Lovely place to drop by with free music concert."
Lars Norrby
a year ago
"Lunch in the cafeteria. 14 euros for two. Grrrreat"

FAQs for Visiting Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

It stands in La Judería, near the centre of Córdoba’s historic Jewish Quarter.
Yes, though access may vary depending on University activities.
Its Baroque architecture, long history as a hospital, and links to the Saint Bartholomew Chapel.
No, it now houses the University of Córdoba’s Faculty of Philosophy and Arts.
20-40 minutes is ideal for exploring the courtyards and corridors.

Nearby Attractions to Hospital del Cardenal Salazar

The Hospital del Cardenal Salazar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Córdoba!

Moira & Andy
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

Address: Hospital del Cardenal Salazar Plaza Cardenal Salazar, 6 14003 Córdoba Spain
Córdoba: 0 km
Telephone: +34 957 21 87 87

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