11 Photos That Prove Córdoba's Patios Are the Most Beautiful in Spain

In some of the courtyards, all the flower pots are the same colour (most often blue); when contrasted with the whitewashed walls of Córdoba‘s oldest houses, the effect is striking.

All aspects of the houses contribute to the overall aesthetic effect during the event, with drainpipes and window frames painted the same colour as the flower pots.

The owners of the properties – who work all year round to prepare for the event – are on-hand to answer any questions visitors might have. A prize for the prettiest patio is awarded by Córdoba’s town hall at the end of May.

Here, the traditional blue-and-white colour scheme has been eschewed in favour of bold reds, pinks and purples. Again, the houses’ whitewashed walls provide the perfect canvas on which to paint with flowers.

Covered to protect visitors from the strong Andalusian sun, many of the patios look like magical little grottoes straight out of a fairy tale.

Every square inch of outside space is used during the Feria de los Patios, often giving the impression that the walls are made of flowers. Cutting through them, here are steps leading up to a romantic first-floor balcony.

Córdoba‘s patios look particularly beautiful as the sun goes down, when subtle lighting enhances their beauty and romance.

As well as the courtyards of private houses, the 15th-century Palacio de Viana can also be visited during Córdoba’s patios event (as well during the rest of the year). For an admission price of €5 (USD$5.80), you can wander around the thirteen patios of this opulent building, which has been home to many Spanish aristocrats over the centuries.

In May, the palace’s gardens – many of which have ponds and fountains at their centre – overflow with trees, plants and flowers in full bloom.

This tranquil fountain is found at the heart of the Palacio de Viana’s maze-like gardens.

Lush creepers tumble down the whitewashed walls of the Viana palace, giving its internal courtyards a deeply sensuous and romantic feel. You’ll certainly never forget a visit here, nor to any of the other gorgeous spaces you’ll see during the Feria de los Patios in Córdoba.