Archaeological Museum and Roman Theatre, Cordoba

Cordoba boasts an impressive Archaeological Museum that has been open to the public since 1965. The museum is housed in a former Renaissance-style palace that once belonged to the Páez de Castillejo family. Its main objective is to preserve, research, and showcase archaeological remains found in Cordoba and the province, ranging from prehistoric times to the period of Arabic rule known as Al-Andalus. The museum comprises eight rooms and three courtyards that display a wide range of exhibits from different periods and architectural styles, providing visitors with a glimpse of Cordoba's rich history.

In 2011, the museum underwent an expansion that included a new building adjacent to the existing one. This contemporary architectural design complements the Renaissance Palace of Jerónimo Páez and offers modern, attractive, and functional museum spaces that meet the growing demand for space and services. One of the exceptional museum pieces featured in the new building is the archaeological site of the Roman Theatre, discovered during the construction process. The Roman Theatre has been fully restored and is open to the public in the basement, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

The museum's collection is extensive and includes artifacts from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, such as those from Iberian, Roman, Visigoth, Islamic, Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance cultures. Notable exhibits include the Iberian Lion of Nueva Carteya and the Roman sculpture of the god Mithra, both of which have outstanding historical and artistic value. The recent extension works in the museum have uncovered the largest theatre in Roman Hispania, adding even more excitement and value to the museum's collection.

Overall, the Archaeological Museum of Cordoba is an impressive and informative place to explore the rich cultural heritage of Cordoba and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and archaeology.