The Classic Modern Andalusian Garden of the Real Alcazar in Cordoba

P1390553 — The characteristic features of the Real Alcazar's modern Moorish garden, shaped by multi-layered terrain

P1390530 — A poetic and picturesque palace adorning the garden

P1390519 Alcazar de Cordoba 2015-04 Jardin de Cordoba — Cordobae's classic Real Alcazar modern Moorish garden

P1390544 — An Arabian garden scene that transports time backward

P1390561 — A scene framed by upright yew trees

P1390563 — Orderly mirror fountains framed among dense yews

P1390575 — Ascending the castle to view the magnificent panoramic garden

P1390579 — A breathtaking panoramic view of the garden unfolds before your eyes

P1390583 — A lush, verdant oasis within the castle

P1390582 — Scenery from the high forested city walls

P1390581 — Gazing at the magnificent ancient Roman aqueduct bridge

Text and photos / Chen Chi-Hsiang

In this history-filled Cordoba, besides the mesmerizing Great Mosque-Cathedral, there is the classic Real Alcazar mixed with an Andalusian garden, situated at the foot of the tall, grand square Arab palace (built in the 13th century). It takes the form of a typical Islamic garden: a square pool with a fountain on a high platform serves as the soul of the entire garden and the water source for the castle and garden. A cascading waterfall descends to the two large geometric rectangular pools below the platform, featuring crisscrossing fountains from the outside towards the center. The edges of the pools are adorned with brilliantly colorful seasonal flowers and plants, surrounded by orderly circular plantings encircling a seasonal flower bed. Two large rows of green cypress trees guard a vast rectangular reflecting pool with a fountain.

At the very back, a pool decorated with mosaics imitating ancient Roman animal motifs, along with a richly fragrant rose garden, creates an unparalleled natural setting. Amidst the chirping of insects, singing of birds, and the murmuring sound of flowing water, a natural symphony is formed.