Discover the Ancient Spanish City Perfect for Flower Lovers and Garden Enthusiasts

I’m back from Córdoba! May is truly the most enchanting time there, with a breathtaking array of flowers and lush greenery that captivates the senses and warms the heart. I was so immersed in the beauty that I barely had a moment to share updates. Now, let me take you through some of the stunning photos!

The people of Córdoba, Spain, seem to have an innate talent for “flirting with flowers.” The narrow streets and hidden alleys are always adorned with a variety of blooms, transforming the entire city into a vibrant floral wonderland.

Geraniums reign supreme as the most common flower, and they can be considered the floral queen of Córdoba. The sight of their red blossoms and green leaves against the white walls evokes a sense of nostalgia, making me feel as if I’ve returned to Córdoba, even when I see them elsewhere.

Every traveler who visits Córdoba has likely peeked curiously at the doorways of local homes. Even the courtyard of an ordinary family can be so charming that you might wish to stay forever.

In Córdoba, these courtyards are known as “Patios,” a unique garden style in Europe that blends Islamic architecture and landscaping with the climate, environment, and artistic flair of Andalusia.

The people of Córdoba have a deep love for flowers and courtyards, and each household takes immense pride in their Patio. This pride reaches its peak during the annual “Festival of Patios.” Every household opens their courtyard, proudly showcasing the flowers they’ve nurtured and the courtyards they’ve lovingly decorated, drawing thousands of flower enthusiasts to admire their creations.

You don’t need to wait for the Festival of Patios to experience the floral magic. From the end of April, Córdoba transforms into a “flower-themed” haven.

For instance, the “Flower Throwing Festival” features girls in flamenco dresses sitting on flower-decorated floats, parading through the old town, showering the crowd with a cascade of colorful blooms.

Another example is the “May Crosses Festival,” where the people of Córdoba decorate crosses with a variety of flowers, placing them on the streets and squares for a competition. The evening is filled with music and dance performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.

There’s also the “Balcony and Fence Decoration Contest,” a friendly competition to see whose balcony or fence is the most beautifully adorned with flowers. During this time, the streets and alleys become a sea of vibrant colors and fragrances.

– The Festival of Patios is usually held in May, but the exact dates vary slightly each year.
– During the festival, if you see two cypress trees placed at the entrance of a house, it means the courtyard is open for viewing. Feel free to step inside; there’s no admission fee. If you enjoy your visit, you can leave a coin in the donation plate.

If not, there’s no pressure.
– Each year, a map of the Patios is released, guiding you to the flower-viewing routes and opening times for the year. You can pick up the map at hotels or tourist centers.
– Hotels often fill up quickly during the Festival of Patios, so it’s best to book your accommodation two to three months in advance.

– Flower viewing can be physically demanding, as you’ll need to visit many courtyards and may have to queue before entering. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.