Plaza Maimónides, Córdoba

Square and Statue in Córdoba

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jerzy Kociatkiewicz

Plaza Maimónides sits at the heart of Córdoba's Jewish Quarter, a small yet atmospheric square named after one of the city's most celebrated historical figures: the 12th-century Jewish philosopher, astronomer, physician, and Torah scholar Moshe ben Maimon—known worldwide as Maimonides. His bronze statue, placed prominently in the plaza, is one of the top sights in Córdoba for travellers exploring this district's rich Sephardic heritage.

The square lies close to the Mezquita and neighbours Plaza del Cardenal Salazar. Its narrow connecting streets, whitewashed façades, and quiet corners make it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Córdoba, especially as you explore the Judería's maze of lanes where history feels very much alive.

History and Significance of Plaza Maimónides
Things to See and Do in Plaza Maimónides
How to Get to Plaza Maimónides
Practical Tips on Visiting Plaza Maimónides
Where to Stay close to Plaza Maimónides
Is Plaza Maimónides Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Plaza Maimónides
Nearby Attractions to Plaza Maimónides

History and Significance of Plaza Maimónides

Plaza Maimónides honours one of Córdoba's greatest residents. Maimonides was born here in the mid-12th century and became one of the most influential Jewish thinkers of the Middle Ages. His writings on philosophy, medicine, and religious law would shape intellectual traditions across both the Islamic and Christian worlds.

Fleeing persecution after the Almohad conquest of Córdoba in 1148, he travelled through al-Andalus and later Morocco before settling in Fustat (Old Cairo) in 1168. He died in 1204 and was buried in Tiberias, in present-day Israel.

Before the statue was erected, the square was known as Plaza de Teberiades, in reference to his burial place. Another historical name is Plaza de las Bulas, after the nearby house that later became a museum. These layers of identity make the square one of the things to do in Córdoba for those seeking insight into the city's multicultural and scholarly past.

Things to See and Do in Plaza Maimónides

Start by admiring the bronze statue of Maimonides, seated with a book in hand, symbolising his lifelong dedication to learning. Visitors often touch the statue’s foot for good luck.

Explore the surrounding architecture, including whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and the peaceful corners characteristic of the Jewish Quarter. The plaza also hosts the Museo Taurino de Córdoba, located on one of its corners, offering insight into Andalusia's long bullfighting tradition.

With cafés, artisan shops, and quiet passageways in every direction, this charming square invites slow wandering. It is one of the best places to visit in Córdoba if you want to soak up the atmosphere of the Judería.

How to Get to Plaza Maimónides

Travelling by air, most visitors reach Córdoba via Seville Airport or Málaga Airport and continue by train or bus. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Córdoba on Booking.com.

If arriving by train, Plaza Maimónides is about a 20–25 minute walk from Córdoba station or a short taxi or bus ride toward the historic centre. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, park in one of the public car parks outside the old town and walk into the Judería, as the narrow medieval streets are not suitable for vehicles. 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 Maimónides

Best time to visit Plaza Maimónides: Early morning or evening for soft light and fewer visitors.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free public square.
Opening hours: Open at all times.
Official website: Refer to Córdoba’s tourism site for nearby museum details.
How long to spend: 15–30 minutes, longer if visiting the museum.
Accessibility: Mostly flat, though surrounding alleys are narrow and cobbled.
Facilities: Cafés, shops, and rest areas nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the statue framed by the white façades of the Judería.
Guided tours: Common stop on Jewish Quarter tours.
Nearby food options: Numerous tapas bars and restaurants in the surrounding streets.

Where to Stay close to Plaza Maimónides

The Judería is one of the most atmospheric areas to stay in Córdoba. Consider NH Collection Amistad Córdoba located directly on the square. Another excellent option is Balcón de Córdoba with its rooftop views. For comfort near the Mezquita, choose Eurostars Conquistador.

Is Plaza Maimónides Worth Visiting?

Yes. With its statue of one of the world's greatest philosophers, its quiet beauty, and its location in the heart of the Judería, Plaza Maimónides is one of the best places to visit in Córdoba, offering a thoughtful pause in one of the city's most historic districts.

FAQs for Visiting Plaza Maimónides

Who was Maimonides?
A 12th-century Jewish philosopher, physician, and scholar born in Córdoba.

Is the plaza easy to find?
Yes, it lies near the Mezquita within the Jewish Quarter.

Is the square busy?
It can be during peak hours, but mornings and evenings are quieter.

Is the statue new?
The statue dates from the 20th century, erected to honour Maimonides.

What else is in the square?
The Museo Taurino de Córdoba, shops, and cafés.

Nearby Attractions to Plaza Maimónides

Sinagoga de Córdoba – A rare medieval synagogue steps away.
Judería de Córdoba – The historic Jewish Quarter surrounding the plaza.
Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba – The city's most iconic monument.
Museo Taurino – The bullfighting museum located on the square.
Calleja de las Flores – A picturesque alley filled with flowers and Mezquita views.

The Plaza Maimónides appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Córdoba!

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