The Hospes Palacio del Bailío is a 16th-century Renaissance palace in Córdoba's Historic Centre, and it holds a secret most guests only discover at dinner. The Arbequina restaurant serves its dishes above a glass floor. Four metres below: 1st-century Roman mosaics, uncovered during restoration, left exactly where the archaeologists found them.
Two Thousand Years in One Building
The Roman foundations date to the era when Córdoba was Colonia Patricia, capital of the Baetica province. Moorish architectural traces from the Al-Andalus period survive in the structure. The Renaissance portal is attributed to Hernán Ruiz II — the same architect who built the Mezquita-Catedral bell tower. Five mosaic patios complete the picture, each echoing the tradition of the celebrated Córdoba patios.
This is not a building dressed up in historical details. The layers are real, and the hotel has done the work to make them readable.
Bodyna Spa
The Bodyna Spa uses restored Roman baths surrounded by original columns. It's a genuinely unusual wellness experience — thermal pools and treatments inside structures that are nearly two thousand years old. For a more traditional Arab bath experience nearby, the Hammam Al-Andalus in the Judería is the place to go.
Getting Around from Here
The palace is 15 minutes on foot from the Mezquita, close enough to walk everywhere important. The Roman Bridge, ancient forum remains, and Noor (Michelin-starred) are all within short walking distance.
Other Options Nearby
For a more intimate stay in the adjacent Judería, the Balcón de Córdoba has 10 rooms and the best panoramic terrace over the Mezquita. Las Casas de la Judería spreads across five interconnected 15th-century palaces. For a more moderate budget, Hotel Madinat has a private hammam and panoramic terrace. The Eurostars Palace offers another contemporary 5-star option with a rooftop pool on the Paseo de la Victoria.
