Rosa Aguilar Rivero

Rosa Aguilar Rivero, Mayoress of Cordoba

The Mosque-Cathedral is absolutely unique; there is nothing like it anywhere else in the world. It is thanks to the Mosque-Cathedral, along with the rest of the nearby monuments which tell the history of Cordoba and add to its rich cultural and architectural heritage, that the city has earned its “World Heritage” title. The city lives with its history, but without nostalgia, bringing it into the present and projecting it into the future so that everyone can enjoy it.

The growth of tourism in Cordoba has been incredible. This heritage has been valued, cared for, pampered, renovated and preserved to be enjoyed by all. As a World Heritage city, Cordoba does not belong to us but to all of Mankind; and we want people arriving from all corners of the earth to enjoy Cordoba. This is what has brought about such a growth in the industries of tourism and culture, with all of its consequences. In addition, it has an important effect on the economy in Cordoba and is an essential and fundamental aspect to boost economic development in the city and generate jobs.

When travelling to the United States, we have been pleasantly surprised by the number of people who have approached us and asked us for information about Cordoba. They know about the city, they know of its existence and history and are interested in finding out more and paying us a visit. We have told them the truth. The truth about Cordoba is that it is a “World Heritage” city and as such enables you to experience history first hand. It is also a splendid city in terms of its monuments and documents, which can now also be enjoyed using new technologies. By talking about Cordoba we have expressed what the city truly is. We explained that we have opened the heart of these lands to the people who want to come here. We have said that Cordoba is a city with its own identity, a meeting point, a place for dialogue and respect, where excellence, quality and safety are available to anyone who wishes to visit us.