Cordoba patio festival is the biggest flower show in Andalucia

The private oasis, hidden behind modest façades, is adorned with a variety of flowers from carnations to geraniums and roses. This creates a competition display of botanical beauty as well as artistic expression. The festival not only celebrates the arrival of spring but also honors Córdoba’s rich cultural heritage, drawing visitors from around the world to this unique floral spectacle.

The competition between fraternities and neighborhood associations to decorate the best patio in the city is fierce. The decoration is made entirely from flowers. Patios are the colorful symbol of the city. Residents are proud to show off their hidden paradises. Several are overflowing so much with flowers you can hardly move. 

Other courtyards, however, are more spacious. Some patios have walls that look like cascades of flowers and greenery, either in pots on the first floor balconies or covering the white plaster. Some residents will take you on a full tour of their home and patio. 

Home like a small museum 

Antique elements, such as four-hundred-year-old wells and washhouses, are shown as if they were placed there by the residents themselves. You can see hundreds of different types of plants and flowers. Curious eyes are rewarded by the occasional sneak-peek into the private quarters of the Cordobeños. The tour offers a glimpse into old kitchens, with their large wooden tables and living rooms covered in colourful cushions. 

Patios come in many different types. 

The Cordobese neighbourhoods where you can visit the oldest patios are the Judería, Santa Marina, San Augustin, and Santo Basilio. Each neighbourhood has its own unique characteristics. For example, in the Judería (Jewish quarter) patios seem to be smaller and cosier than in the other areas. Orange trees are a striking sight. In Barrio San Andrés, violets in various colours predominate next to begonias and geraniums. 

Flowers and herbs types 

Although there are many flowers on each patio, they all have their own distinct atmosphere. Patios which are shared between several families are typically smaller than patios on which multiple houses are opened. Azaleas and bougainvilles are some of the most common flowers used in patios. They include carnations, lilies asters, hydrangeas geraniums jasmine geraniums, roses, begonias lilies. damas de Noche are – among many others – flowers that bloom in Córdoba. Also, the smell of mint, parsley and thyme is a delight. 

Related post: The Mezquita-cathedral in Córdoba, a must-see in 2023

Fountain 

Many patios are built around a fountain or well. Many patios have fountains lined with mosaic tiles, and the floors are often decorated with radiant pebble patterns. From afar, it appears to be a carpet. In many buildings open to the general public, courtyards can be found. Many restaurants in the city centre, for example, are built around a beautiful patio. 

Heart of the Home 

The patio was the center of Andalucian life. There, people would gather to enjoy the warm summer nights and find peace. It was a peaceful place, far away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. 

The lusher the patio, and the higher their importance, 

In the past, the fireplace used to be located on the patio. It was a necessity for Romans as well as Moors. Charcoal was required to be burnt day and evening. The patios were decorated with flowers, plants and brightly colored tiles. 

Cooling and shading was provided by pebbles laid in patterns on the floor and arches. The patios of the wealthy and important residents were more extravagant. The patio was equipped with a water well or basins for collecting the water. Patios were seen as a place of colour, light and scent where people could escape the daily grind. 

Useful Terms 

The festival takes place from May 5 to 18. The patios will be open to the public from 11.00 to 2.00 and 6.00 to 10.00. You can also admire them on Saturdays and Fridays until midnight. They are open on Sundays between 3.00pm and 9:00pm. Click here The official programme is available. 

Palacio de Viana 

If you are unable to attend the festival, there is still a way for you to enjoy it. visit the Palacio de Viana Visit the patios at other times during the year to get a better impression. You will find twelve patios here. This is why it is called the museum for the patios. The palace is located at Plaza de Don Gome 2, and is open from Tuesday to Friday, 10.00 am – 7.00 pm. On Sundays, public holidays and from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Entry to the patios alone costs €5, with the palace included it costs €8,50. The patios are free to visit on Wednesdays from 2.00pm until 5.00pm.  

Also read: Fun facts you didn’t know about Córdoba’s patios