The May Crosses of Córdoba mark the start of the spring festivities, a few days before the famous Patio Festival. Across the city, monumental crosses go up decorated with flowers, silk mantones, colourful shawls and traditional objects. Every neighbourhood and association competes to build the most spectacular display around its cross. The tradition stretches back centuries — religious devotion and popular celebration braided together so tightly it's hard to separate them.
A three-category contest
A jury awards the best displays across three categories: historic centre, modern neighbourhoods and indoor spaces. The crosses in San Basilio and the Judería draw the most visitors. Around each cross, people dance, sing and share the first tapas of the festive season alongside a rebujito. It's the signal that spring has properly arrived.
Ephemeral floral altars
These crosses are temporary works — floral altars that concentrate the horticultural skill and festive spirit of the people who build them. The finest creations are genuinely impressive: 3 to 4 metres tall, geraniums, carnations, roses and lilies intertwined into dense compositions. Each neighbourhood adds its own character: embroidered fabrics, handmade pottery, antique religious objects.
Practical information
The crosses are accessible from 12:00 to 02:00 continuously for 5 days (29 April – 3 May 2026). The evening atmosphere is better — the crosses are lit up and the festive energy is higher. Free entry for all. Combine with the Batalla de las Flores on 26 April and with the first patios starting to open. The best crosses are traditionally in San Basilio, Centro and Santa Marina.
