The day started with a trip to the Medina Azahara, the ruins of the ancient Muslim capital city, which dates from the beginning of the 10th century. The fortified city is located about ten miles outside of central Cordoba, and was constructed as a symbol of political of Abd Al-Rahman III, one of the the Ummayad Caliphates of Al-Andalus. The Medina was constructed in a series of three terraces to take full advantages of the mountainside on which it is located, and included private, servant, and government quarters. What is left nearly one thousand years later, however, is pretty minimal since much of the natural sandstone has been worn away with time and the hot, desert weather. Some of the arches have been reconstructed and are very similar to the ones in the Mezquita.
The four remaining entrance arches (of the original 14)
After a few hours in the blazing sun, we also went to the Medina Museum, which is down the mountain, and watched a brief film about the history and had examples of a digital reconstruction of the site. It was really cool to see the architectural graphics I've been learning how to use in school practically applied. Yet another architectural geek moment in España.
Interior arches
Small amount of shade
After the Medina, Esteban, the PRESHCO Resident Director, hosted a lunch at his apartment. It was so nice to have a group meal, as well as my first beverage as a legal USA citizen. Esteban also surprised me, as well as all the other September birthdays, with cake and a little celebration.
The cakes were gorgeous, and all handmade here in Cordoba. Hurray for birthdays!
If you look closely, the chocolate says "felicidades!"
I've spent the rest of the afternoon (evening) napping and relaxing at home for tonight. A big group of us are going out to celebrate my 21st at various bars and clubs around the city. Spaniards may not appreciate the significance of 21, but my Americanas sure do! Kim and I are listening to Don Omar- Taboo and getting ready for our first big night out in España. Photos and details to follow tomorrow.
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