Baños árabes de Santa María, Arab baths in central Córdoba, Spain
The Arab Baths of Santa María is a bathing complex with several chambers beneath the ground level, defined by vaulted ceilings and arched galleries throughout. The system relied on a deep water tank to supply warm and cold water to the different bathing areas.
The complex was first built during the Caliphal period and later rebuilt by Mudéjar craftsmen in the 14th century. After Christian conquest of the city, it received its current name from a nearby church.
The baths show how Muslim bathing traditions continued to be used even after Christian rule arrived in the city. The arches and decorations you see today preserve the style and customs of an earlier culture within these walls.
The site is located in the city center and easy to reach; the rooms are compact and straightforward, so a visit does not require much time. Comfortable shoes are helpful since you walk through several levels and descend some stairs into the underground chambers.
The central chamber features eight columns with alternating red and yellow striped patterns that create a striking visual contrast visitors often miss. This design merges artistic elements from two very different historical periods into one unified space.
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