Sinagoga de Cordoba (Cordoba Synagogue), Cordoba

The historic Cordoba Synagogue (Sinagoga de Cordoba), situated along a narrow street in the Jewish Quarter of Cordoba, dates from the early 14th century. Small yet significant, it is one of the most well-preserved synagogues in Spain. Based on its modest size, the synagogue may have been a private temple for an affluent family.

The structure features Moorish architecture. Inside is an entrance hall, a prayer hall, and an upper gallery for women. The front gate enters into a tiny walled courtyard with potted plants and a mosaic floor. A stairway at the side of the entrance hall leads up to the women's balcony.

The stunning prayer room is the highlight of a visit to the synagogue. The small room features a noticeably high ceiling. The ornate stucco walls are detailed with intricately carved latticework patterns and Hebrew inscriptions. There is a niche on either side of the room. One contains a menorah, though housing Torah scrolls was its original use.

Through ornamental open archways near the top of the prayer room are views into the women's section. Latticework was, at one time, located at the bottom part of the arches to act as a privacy screen. The synagogue's highly decorative vaulted ceiling is created from wood panels and beams.

A stop to visit this beautiful synagogue is a must-do on your tour of Cordoba's Jewish Quarter.