Spain
Chasing History in Córdoba
Spain has a fascinating religious history, and there is perhaps no better city to explore this past than Córdoba. The Inquisition, which expelled one of Europe's largest Jewish populations, was stationed here. One of the world's most impressive mosques was turned into a Catholic church here. It was here that Ferdinand and Isabella sent Christoper Columbus to the New World. And, a personal favorite, Córdoba is so royally influenced that even the parking garages have parapets.
Holy Toledo!
My favorite city in Spain is this Medieval fortress. The cathedral was impressive (aren't they all?), the food was good, and there is more steel than even the knights of Agincourt would have needed. Plus, the gift shops played adventure music while trying to sell them to you and who doesn't enjoy that sales tactic?