Santa Marina is where Manolete was born — the bullfighter whose statue stands in the main square. The neighbourhood also produced Fosforito, one of flamenco's defining voices. These are not just heritage plaques; bullfighting and flamenco have been genuine local culture here for generations, not tourist products.
A Fernandine church and strong patios
The Church of Santa Marina de Aguas Santas is among the oldest in Córdoba — Romanesque-Gothic façade, bell tower converted from a minaret. The neighbourhood's patios rank among the strongest entries in the May competition. Santa Marina draws fewer crowds than San Basilio during the Patios Festival, which makes it worth including in any itinerary focused on patio quality rather than easy access — the complete festival guide has a route through this quarter.
Palacio de Viana
The Palacio de Viana and its 12 patios are the main architectural draw in Santa Marina. Guided patio tours also cover private patios in the neighbourhood that don't appear on the standard festival circuit.
Flamenco
Santa Marina bred the tradition, but the professional flamenco shows run in the tablaos of the neighbouring Judería every evening — the most direct way to see the art performed in an intimate setting.
Getting around Santa Marina
Allow 1 to 2 hours, more if visiting the Palacio de Viana. La Regadera serves market-driven cooking in the neighbourhood.
