The courtyards of Cordoba in Spain

Abstract

Urban public spaces have long been considered an ideal setting for processes of socialization and interaction between citizens. This paper, however, shows how certain private spaces, such as the courtyard houses of the city of Cordoba (Spain) are on a par with public spaces and provide all the social benefits to the users, normally attributed to urban spaces. This article examines the discourse of citizens of Cordoba regarding houses with courtyard gardens. The study was conducted with five discussion groups comprised of people of different ages, sex and place of residence (houses with courtyard gardens versus blocks of flats). We conclude that the courtyards of the city of Cordoba provide an unparalleled environment for social interaction within neighbourhoods and a space where residents encounter all that they need to achieve a high degree of personal development and well-being.