The Torre del Alminar is the bell tower of the Mezquite, which is the Cathedral-Mosque in the ancient city of Cordoba in Andalusia, Spain. The fascinating architecture of the bell tower and other buildings reflect the history of this site as it changed religious hands. The Mezquita and the Torre del Alminar have been decreed to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site so the whole complex is protected and maintained for its historical importance.
If you are brave enough and seeking a fantastic view of Cordoba and the surrounding countryside, then you can climb up to the top of the Torre del Alminar, which towers 93 metres above the Mezquita. It may take you a while but it will be well worth the effort to see the stunning panoramic views. The bell tower actually used to be taller, but it was shortened when it was converted into a bell tower after the 16th century. ... continue below the picture...
The Mezquita was constructed in the 10th century under Abd ar-Rahman III, when Cordoba was considered to be one of the grandest cities in Europe. In the center of the Mosque sits the Renaissance Cathedral, including the Torre del Alminar. The Cathedral dates back to the 16th century, but the Mosque was designated a Christian Cathedral in 1236. The building was changed and developed over the years and as a result contain many different styles of architecture in the same location.
Torre del Alminar (bell tower) of the Mezquita (Cathedral-Mosque) seen from the entrance to the cathedral, City of Cordoba, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Province of Cordoba, Andalusia (Andalucia), Spain, Europe.
Technical Information:
I photographed this photo with the digital SLR camera model Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III, aperture of f/5.6, exposure time of 1/160 sec. on ISO 100, as always I used a original Canon Lens, the focus lenght for this picture was 35mm.