Weekend Getaways
From Seville

Córdoba

Córdoba was first settled by the Romans, conquered by the Muslims and claimed as the capital of Al-Andalus, and then re-conquered by the Christians in 1236. An exceptionally beautiful city that is full of history and relics from the Moorish Empire, the most spectacular being the 8th-century mosque with painted columns and arches. The mosque is so magnificent that it has been preserved, to a certain extent, by Christian Kings and Queens through the changes of religion. Much Like Seville, Cordoba's old quarter is a winding maze of whitewashed buildings, overgrown balconies, and small entrances that give way to lush patios full of beautiful flowers. It definitely has a quaint and old world atmosphere.

Granada

On a hill overlooking Granada, the Alhambra-a sprawling palace-citadel that comprised royal residential quarters, court complexes flanked by official chambers, a bath, and a mosque-was begun in the thirteenth century by Ibn al-Ahmar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty, and was continued by his successors in the fourteenth century. The legacy of the Muslim occupation of Spain is best preserved in Granada, specifically at the Alhambra. This is the most dominating structure in the city and well worth the visit. The city itself lies at the foot of Spain's mightiest massif, the Sierra Nevada, and on the edge of an extraordinarily fertile plain, which creates a stunning background for the beautiful architecture and surroundings in the city of Granada.

Madrid

No visit to Spain is complete without a visit to Madrid the capital of Spain. Just a quick 6-hour train ride from Barcelona, Madrid offers world-class museums, nightlife, architecture, and a happening cosmopolitan atmosphere. Start your city tour at the Plaza del Sol the zero kilometer marker from which all roads in Spain converge. Take in the amazing Parque del Buen Retiro or check out the Museo del Prado, which is home to the essential Spanish works of art from Velazquez, Goya, to El Greco. One could spend weeks seeing all the sites that Madrid has to offer so make a plan and stick to it.

Cádiz

Cádiz, the capital and principal seaport of the Cádiz province of Andalusia, stands on a peninsula jutting out into a bay, and is almost entirely surrounded by water. Hemmed in by the sea from which it is protected by walls, the city has only one land exit. Unlike most other ports of its size Cadiz seems relaxed, easy going, and not at all threatening, even at night. The town has traditionally been a bastion of liberalism and tolerance which was maintained all through the years of Franco's dictatorship and can be experienced today.

Industrial development is rather limited, but more importantly private and public beaches are the key attraction here. Many are considered the best in Europe and the water is of great quality. The city is primarily a commercial port, exporting wine (principally sherry from Jerez de la Frontera), salt, olives, figs, corks, and salted fish; and importing coal, iron and machinery, timber, cereals, coffee, and other

Málaga

Málaga, the capital of the Malaga province on the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular vacation resort for Spaniards as well as foreigners and it is one of the most important commercial seaports in southern Spain. Industries in the city produce sugar, wine, cotton textiles, and tourism. Founded by Phoenicians in the 12th century BC and under the Roman rule it developed into a strong military station. These days, Malaga prides itself on being a modern city with the heart of commerce dominated by tourism and trade.

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