The really beautiful old cities are those which had not just one but two, and exceptionally three, great moments in history. Córdoba is a good example of this with the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims and then the Christians all leaving their mark with ambitious building programs to establish and show off their talents. It has been the capital of Andalusia, a Roman colony granted independence, a centre for showing the reaffirmation of the Christian power and now a beautiful town that manages to preserve all of this history far better than most others could. There is no better place to explore it than from the Hospes Palacio del Bailío which itself includes Roman remains (the hotel’s spa is located in the ancient Roman baths!).

This hotel is a real dedication to beauty and well-preserved style that was not so much built but accumulated during 200 years from the 16th century onwards. What we see now includes restored granaries, coach-houses and stables and, rarely for properties in the heart of the historic quarter, a beautiful garden together with courtyards that hide jasmine, lemon and orange trees. The hotel was once part of the territory that belonged to the aristocratic Castejón family and its uniqueness encouraged the government to protect it in 1982 with classification as a monument of national cultural interest.

The designers of the hotel’s interior have chosen a scheme that reflects the building’s past whilst lodging it well and truly in the 21st century. Spaces are design-orientated then but they have chosen wisely and use colours and materials that fit with the surroundings giving it a modern, edgy comfort but nothing too radical to lose its classical charm. A car is not particularly useful for exploring the centre of Córdoba itself – you miss the hidden bits which, we can assure you, are the very best bits of all.

The Palacio del Bailío is in the heart of the "centro historico" so wander at will without the stress of driving or use one of the bicycles that the hotel offers to clients to explore where most tourists never get to see. You can always come back later and relax in either the indoor or outdoor pool. Please note: during Extra Season (Holy Week and May) the hotel reserves the right to request one night's deposit when the booking is made.

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