Selfdrive

Hostal Aljibe – Madinat Al-Zahra

Discover Andalucia on your own pace.

Take the time to soak it all in and enjoy the vistas, scenery, nature, culture and gastronomy.

SabrinaVandierendonck

26/09/2022

Andalusia’s Moorish Past

126 km – 1h15 min

This is a discovery tour of the Moorish past of Andalusia, starting off with one of the many pearls of the province of Cordoba, Medina Azahara.

Embark on the exhilarating first stage of your self-drive odyssey, charting a course from the charming Hostal Aljibe to the awe-inspiring Madinat al-Zahra. This leg of the journey promises a delightful blend of rustic landscapes, historical intrigue, and the promise of uncovering the hidden gems of Andalusia.

A unique mix of cultures and people

The making of Spain

The BBC series “The making of Spain” with Simon Sebag Montefiore, caught my attention and took me on an exciting journey through the history of Spain. From the early years of the Iberian Peninsula, across the reconquista to present-day Spain.
Spain is European, but throughout history it’s always looking towards Africa, which is only 14 km away.
Due to its location at the southernmost tip of Europe, and its proximity to Africa, it is a unique mix of cultures and people.
Jews, Muslims and Christians have conquered and recaptured the country and left their mark. This is what makes Spain so special and exotic.
From paganism to Islam and Catholicism, to Franco’s dictatorship and its current democracy, from the Atlantic ocean to the Mediterranean. The series highlights every aspect of society, who and what shaped the soul of this peninsula and is therefore the perfect introduction for a visit to our beautiful region.
Many of the featured cities are within a stones throw from our cortijo, but one has attracted my special attention: Medina Azahara.
After looking at the map and doing some research, I have the perfect day trip mapped out.

Off the beaten track

Madinat Al-Zahra

Medina Azahara, or Madinat Al-Zahra, is an hour’s drive from our Cortijo. Perfect for a day-out.

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The journey

Leave early

Setting off early in the morning for your self-drive adventure is a wise choice, especially in a region known for its warm temperatures. The early hours offer a cool and serene ambiance, allowing you to make the most of your journey. As the first light of dawn paints the sky, the world comes alive with a gentle freshness that adds a magical touch to your travel experience.
With the cool morning air embracing you, the drive becomes a rejuvenating experience. The roads, free from the midday traffic hustle, offer a peaceful and unhurried journey. The temperature, at its coolest during the early hours, ensures a comfortable ride as you navigate through the landscapes.
Whether you’re passing through rustic countryside or exploring historical sites like Madinat al-Zahra, the morning light adds a soft glow to everything it touches. It enhances the beauty of olive groves, illuminates ancient architecture, and casts a tranquil ambiance over the surroundings.
So, gear up, catch the sunrise, and let the cool morning be the canvas for the first strokes of your self-drive adventure, creating memories that unfold in the gentle light of a new day.

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History

Madinat al-Zahra’s Historic Resurgence

As you approach Madinat al-Zahra, the remnants of the once-splendid palace city begin to emerge on the horizon. This archaeological gem, nestled against the backdrop of the Sierra Morena, invites you to step back in time to the 10th century, when it served as the glittering capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba.

Architectural Marvels Unveiled

Explore the archaeological site, where the remains of grand arches, courtyards, and intricate Islamic architecture paint a vivid picture of the opulence that defined Madinat al-Zahra’s heyday. The echoes of ancient footsteps reverberate through the centuries, offering a glimpse into the cultural and artistic zenith of medieval Al-Andalus.

Practical things

Visiting the ruins

Access to the ruins is free. You only need to buy a ticket for the bus ride (5 minutes) from the visitor center to the site. It is about 2 km which you can also cover on foot. However, this is not advisable on a hot (summer) day.
Operating Hours: Be aware of the opening and closing times of Madinat al-Zahra. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views and architectural details. Arrive early to escape the sun.
Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site. Knowledgeable guides can enhance your experience by providing context to the ruins and sharing captivating stories.

Visitor center

Visit the on-site visitor center for additional information, maps, and any last-minute updates. The visitor center is a valuable resource to orient yourself before exploring the ruins.
there is an educational video about the origin and life within the Medina (every half hour). There is also a nice museum where various pieces are exhibited that were found during the excavations.

Sweeping views

From the elevated perch of Madinat al-Zahra’s ruins, the countryside unfolds in a mesmerizing display of nature’s grandeur. As you stand amidst the remnants of this once-thriving caliphal city, the panoramic views extend beyond the archaeological site, offering a cinematic vista that seamlessly blends history and landscape.
The terraced layout of Madinat al-Zahra allows you to survey the undulating terrain that surrounds the ancient city. Olive groves, with their silver-green foliage, carpet the land in every direction. The rows of trees form a geometric pattern that echoes the meticulous planning that characterized the architectural marvels below.