Cordoba is a lovely city in Spain's southern Andalusia region, known as a major Roman and Islamic center during antiquity. Though the city is located more than four hours from Madrid via car, it can be reached in less than two hours via the high-speed AVE Train, which links Madrid to areas such as Sevilla and Malaga. Visitors can view iconic landmarks such as the La Mezquita mosque, which dates back to the 8th century A.D. and showcases spectacular Byzantine mosaics. The mosque, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, features Renaissance-style additions dating back to its conversion into a Catholic church in Medieval times. Moorish architecture abounds throughout the city center, including wrought-iron balconies, golden stone buildings, and verdant patios. Map