The beautiful old neighbourhood of San Basilio – also called Alcazar Viejo – is one of the most charming quarters in all of Andalusia. This area of scrunched together, whitewashed houses is home to many of Cordoba’s flower-filled patios and courtyards, which are opened to the public every May during the Feria de los Patios, one of Andalusia’s most enchanting events. Some are also open throughout the year, but even those that aren’t can be glimpsed behind heavy iron gates – verdant oases of cool and colour in the hearts of some of the city’s oldest buildings.