Maimónides Square and Statue, Cordoba

In the middle of Córdoba’s Jewish Quarter, Maimónides Square tips its hat to one of the city’s brightest minds. Born here in the 12th century, Moses ben Maimon-better known as Maimónides-managed to fit “philosopher, physician, astronomer, and scholar” onto one résumé, with a side of groundbreaking theology.

A short stroll away, Tiberias Square cradles a bronze statue of the man himself, sculpted in 1964. Locals will tell you that rubbing his feet brings good luck-a superstition that’s polished them to a fine shine.

Around the square, you can dip into the Bullfighting Museum, where Córdoba’s matadors are remembered in art, costume, and legend, or linger at the House of Sefarad, which devotes a whole exhibition room to Maimónides’ life and legacy. In this part of town, even the streets feel like they’ve memorized a few philosophical quotes.