Puerta de Almodovar (Almodovar Gate), Cordoba

The Almodóvar Gate isn’t just a hole in Córdoba’s old town walls-it’s a survivor. Dating from the 14th century, it’s one of only three medieval gates still standing, named for the road that once led to the nearby town of Almodóvar del Río. Built from sandstone and brick, the gate’s big open arch is flanked by two sturdy towers capped with battlements, like it’s still half-expecting trouble from the past. Step through and you’re straight into the Jewish Quarter, where the streets seem to have been designed by someone who liked puzzles.

Just outside, Cairuán Street runs alongside the walls like a quiet backstage corridor. It’s a stone walkway shaded by greenery, with a fountain feeding a neat row of rectangular ponds-an easy stroll for anyone wanting a break from the city’s buzz.

Keeping watch by the gate is a bronze statue of Seneca the Younger, born here in 4 B.C., who went on to become a Roman philosopher, playwright, and, at times, reluctant political insider. Follow Cairuán Street a little further and you’ll meet another hometown heavyweight: Averroes, the medieval philosopher who brought Aristotle back into fashion in the Islamic world. Two thinkers, two statues, and one gate that’s been standing long enough to hear it all.