Córdoba

The streets of Córdoba are a faithful reflection of thousands of years of history. Once a Roman colony and capital of Islamic Spain, the city's cultural splendor can still be seen, most notably in the characteristic Mezquita. Churches, palaces, bridges and mosques, the UNESCO listed old town of Córdoba is where it's all at. The narrow streets are a warren of delights, from local shops selling authentic souvenirs to scenic restaurants that cluster by the river. The Muslim Quarter is mirrored by its Jewish counterpart, each rife with remnants of a storied past. Scattered in between are leafy patios teeming with blooms from mid-April to mid-June, when the skies are clear and the streets come alive in celebration. Nearby, Plaza de las Tendillas lies at the core of the modern city where fine restaurants, bars and cafes vie for attention. Must-visit museums include the Archeological Museum of Córdoba, Palacio de Viana and Museum of Fine Arts, while of the many monuments on display, the Roman Bridge is the most striking tribute to ancient architecture. The streets of Córdoba are a grand chronicle of the city's lengthy history, one that is ever-evolving as new chapters are added to the story of the cultured capital of the southern Spanish province of the same name.