Spanish history is filled with centuries of religious battles between Muslims and Catholics. Completed in the 10th century, this mosque is often been ground zero for that tug-of-war. Originally commissioned as a mosque (hence Mezquita), it's also served as a cathedral, then again a mosque, then again a cathedral, you get the picture. One is first overwhelmed by the columns of marble and jasper throughout and their seemingly endless repetition. As the moorish architecture throughout the mosque competes with baroque influences, you find yourself on a walk through history.
Seemingly endless columns of jasper and marble
The Patio de los Naranjos just outside the mosque provides a respite from the hot Andalucian sun. The fragrance of the orange trees coupled with the trickling of water running between the patio stones provides a great place to relax and meditate.
Here's a tip: Throughout much of Andalucia, orange trees dot the courtyards of palaces and line the sidewalks of city centers. Although they smell wonderful, it's said they taste awful. Spaniards joke that only the British will eat the dreadful oranges. The oranges are shipped off every season to make marmalade specifically for the UK market.
Be sure to add La Mezquita any trip to Sevilla or Granada. La Mezquita is not to be missed!
Date of Completion: February 2003
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