Plaza del Conde de Priego, Córdoba

Square in Córdoba

Plaza del Conde de Priego Cordoba
Plaza del Conde de Priego Cordoba
GNU / Justojosemm

Plaza del Conde de Priego is one of the must-see places in Córdoba for travellers exploring the traditional Santa Marina district. Quiet, atmospheric, and framed by historic architecture, this square is best known for its striking monument to Manolete - Córdoba's most legendary matador of the 1940s. Located just a few steps from the Iglesia de Santa Marina, it's one of the top attractions in Córdoba for those interested in local culture and neighbourhood life.

Set slightly apart from the busiest corners of the old town, the square is often visited on walking tours of Córdoba, especially those that explore Santa Marina's plazas, patios, and Renaissance palaces.

History and Significance of Plaza del Conde de Priego

Plaza del Conde de Priego stands in the heart of the Santa Marina district, separated from the square of Santa Marina by a small road. Its name commemorates the Count of Priego, a noble title associated with significant historic families in the region. Over the centuries, the square evolved into an important local gathering place, positioned between religious, residential, and cultural landmarks.

One of the most significant historic structures bordering the square is the Convento de Clarisas de Santa Isabel de los Ángeles, founded in the 15th century under the patronage of the Marquises of Villaseca. The convent remains an active religious community and lends the square an air of quiet monastic calm.

The square's identity, however, is most closely tied to Manuel Rodríguez Sánchez - better known as Manolete. Born in Córdoba in 1917, he became one of Spain's greatest bullfighters before his tragic death at age 30. The monument at the centre of the square pays tribute to his legacy and remains a powerful symbol of Córdoba's bullfighting heritage.

Things to See and Do in Plaza del Conde de Priego

The centrepiece of the square is the impressive statue of Manolete, crafted with dramatic detailing that captures his presence in the Spanish bullfighting world. Visitors can circle the sculpture to appreciate its angles and its prominent placement at the heart of the plaza.

The surrounding open space is ideal for resting between explorations of Santa Marina’s narrow lanes. Benches, shade from mature trees, and a calm local atmosphere make it a pleasant spot to pause. The convent façade adds historical depth to the setting, with its simple yet elegant architecture reflecting centuries of religious life.

Just across the road stands the Iglesia de Santa Marina, one of Córdoba's oldest Fernandine churches. Combining these two landmarks - the church and the square - makes for a rewarding short wander through the district.

How to Get to Plaza del Conde de Priego

Córdoba is served by nearby airports including Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport and Seville Airport, both with regular 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 easily reach the city via the AVE high-speed network, connecting Córdoba with Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. From the railway station, Plaza del Conde de Priego is about a 25-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, follow Córdoba's central routes toward the Santa Marina district and park in nearby public garages before exploring the historic area 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 Plaza del Conde de Priego

  • Best time to visit Plaza del Conde de Priego: Late afternoon for shade and quiet atmosphere.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free to visit.
  • Opening hours: Always open as a public square.
  • Official website: Refer to Córdoba’s municipal tourism pages.
  • How long to spend: 10-20 minutes, or longer if exploring nearby sites.
  • Accessibility: Flat and easy to access.
  • Facilities: Benches and shaded areas; cafés close by in Santa Marina.
  • Photography tip: Frame the Manolete statue with the convent in the background.
  • Guided tours: Often included in neighbourhood walking routes.
  • Nearby food options: Traditional taverns and cafés throughout Santa Marina.

Where to Stay close to Plaza del Conde de Priego

For easy access to Santa Marina and its surrounding monuments, consider staying nearby. A boutique option is Hotel Boutique Patio del Posadero, known for its stylish rooms and quiet charm. Another excellent choice is Eurostars Patios de Córdoba, offering modern comfort within a historic setting. For a luxurious stay, Hospes Palacio del Bailío combines elegance with proximity to Santa Marina.

Is Plaza del Conde de Priego Worth Visiting?

Yes, Plaza del Conde de Priego is worth visiting, especially for those exploring the Santa Marina district. Its combination of cultural heritage, peaceful ambience, and the striking monument to Manolete makes it a memorable stop. It offers an intimate glimpse of Córdoba beyond its major monuments.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (647)

Monumento a Manolete sits in a pleasant square at Pl. del Conde de Priego in Córdoba’s Centro; visitors say it honors the famed torero Manolete and provides a charming, quiet spot a short walk from busier tourist areas, though some note there’s little onsite information about him and it can feel underlit or unremarkable after dark.

Ric Diez
7 years ago
"If you are interested in the Torerors history of Spain, then you should see the statue of the greatest of them all, Manolete the square where thestatue is located has quite a little bit of charm as well..."
Julien Demeulenaere
8 years ago
"Nice place but lacking of explanation about this great torrero. You nees google to understand his fame if you are not spanish."
Cedri
6 years ago
"At night there could be some more light and it's not that special."

FAQs for Visiting Plaza del Conde de Priego

In the Santa Marina district of Córdoba, close to the Iglesia de Santa Marina.
The statue of Manolete, Córdoba’s most famous bullfighter.
The 15th-century Convento de Clarisas de Santa Isabel de los Ángeles.
It is generally calm and peaceful, especially outside peak hours.
Yes, including Palacio de Viana and the Santa Marina church.

Nearby Attractions to Plaza del Conde de Priego

The Plaza del Conde de Priego 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

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free

Address: Plaza del Conde de Priego, 1, 14001 Córdoba, Spain
Córdoba: 1 km

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