The May Crosses of Cordoba are one of the most emblematic and colorful festivities in the city, declared a National Tourist Interest event. Every spring, the streets, squares, and courtyards of Cordoba come alive with the installation of spectacular floral crosses, accompanied by music, gastronomy, and a unique festive atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors from all over the world.
For several days, neighborhood associations, brotherhoods, cultural clubs, and community groups compete to create the most impressive and original cross, using natural flowers, flowerpots, embroidered fabrics, and traditional Andalusian motifs. The crosses, set up in public spaces, become authentic gathering points where residents and tourists enjoy tapas, music, and dance in the purest Cordoba style.
Far from being just a visual attraction, the May Crosses represent a living expression of Cordoba cultural identity, intertwining devotion, creativity, hospitality, and popular joy.
Importance in the festive calendar of Cordoba
The May Crosses are not only one of the most beloved festivals for locals but also mark the beginning of Cordoba May, the most festive and spectacular month of the year in the city. This cycle of celebrations includes, in addition to the crosses, the Courtyards Festival—recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO—the Festival of Grilles and Balconies, and culminates with the Fair of Our Lady of Health.
Thus, May becomes an exaltation of spring, with Cordoba adorned and dedicated to floral art, music, and street celebrations. The May Crosses, held at the end of April and beginning of May, serve as the perfect prelude to this festive month, acting as an open invitation to experience the city in its full splendor.
It is no longer just about seeing flowers; it is about experiencing Cordoba.
Dates and Schedule of the May Crosses 2025
Official Calendar
The May Crosses of Cordoba 2025 will take place from Wednesday, April 30, to Sunday, May 4, according to the calendar approved by the City Council and confirmed by official sources. This edition coincides with the May 1 holiday weekend, ensuring a large influx of visitors and an intense schedule of activities over five consecutive days.
These dates mark the beginning of Cordoba May, a month when the city reaches its peak cultural and touristic splendor, with the crosses serving as the perfect introduction to other major events such as the Courtyards Festival and the Fair of Our Lady of Health.
Operating Hours
For the 2025 edition, the City Council has established a series of schedules and regulations to ensure a balance between the festive atmosphere and the well-being of residents, especially in residential areas where many crosses are set up.
General Opening Hours
The crosses will be open to the public from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM every day of the festival.
During these hours, food services and musical entertainment will be available.
Sound Regulation and Rest Measures for Residents
To harmonize the celebration with residents rest, two time slots for reducing music volume will be applied:
From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, ambient music volume must be lowered in all active crosses.
From 12:00 AM each night, a significant reduction in volume will be required, especially in residential areas near the city center.
Special Measure for May 1
Since the night of Wednesday, May 1, precedes a working day (Friday, May 2), a specific regulation will apply:
The crosses must close earlier, with activities ending at 12:00 AM.
From 11:00 PM, a mandatory volume reduction will be enforced.
These decisions are part of the new regulatory framework for the 2025 Crosses contest, which also includes random inspections to ensure compliance with schedules and respect for public tranquility.
Location of the Participating Crosses
Distribution of Crosses in the City
For the 2025 edition, the City Council of Cordoba has set a maximum of 45 participating crosses in the official contest, categorized into three main types:
Crosses in the Historic Center: Located in the city old quarter, these crosses are set in iconic squares and streets, highlighting Cordoba architecture and cultural heritage.
Crosses in Modern Areas: Installed in contemporary districts, these crosses bring a festive touch to neighborhoods and avenues outside the historic center.
Crosses in Enclosed Spaces: Placed in courtyards, association headquarters, or private spaces accessible to the public, offering a more intimate experience of the festival.
Highlighted Locations
Although the final list of participating crosses for 2025 will be published closer to the event, based on previous editions, some emblematic locations usually include:
Plaza de la Trinidad
Plaza del Potro
Cuesta del Bailío
Plaza de San Andrés
The City Council typically releases an interactive map and an official list of participating crosses, detailing their exact locations and the organizing entities. Checking the City Council announcements or the official Cordoba tourism website is recommended for updated information near the event dates.
History and Significance of the May Crosses
Origins of the Festival
The May Crosses have ancient roots. It is believed that their origins are linked to pagan spring celebrations, where various cultures worshipped nature and cycles of renewal, especially through floral symbols. These festivities were marked by rituals related to the fertility of the land and the rebirth of life after winter.
With the arrival of Christianity, these customs were absorbed and transformed into a religious celebration centered on the exaltation of the Cross, a fundamental symbol of Christian faith. The tradition of erecting floral crosses in squares and public spaces became widespread in many regions of Spain, especially in Andalusia, and developed significantly in Cordoba.
During the 20th century, neighborhood associations and brotherhoods began creating elaborately decorated crosses and competing for beauty, creativity, and ambiance, shaping the festival as it is known today.
Associated Traditions
The central element of this festival is the construction of a large cross, meticulously adorned with natural flowers, embroidered shawls, flowerpots, lanterns, ceramics, and other decorative elements reflecting Andalusian aesthetics.
Each cross is set on a base or platform and surrounded by a bar where traditional tapas and drinks are served, making these spaces lively meeting points for residents and tourists. Music is also an essential part of the atmosphere, with sevillanas, rumbas, and flamenco played throughout the day, except during regulated hours.
Beyond being decorative displays, these crosses represent a collective cultural and artistic expression, as they are created by brotherhoods, associations, and cultural groups who work for weeks to craft ephemeral works of art.
Cultural Importance
The May Crosses are deeply rooted in Cordoba identity. More than just an ornamental event, they represent a way of experiencing popular culture, blending religious devotion, artistic creativity, and community spirit.
During these days, Cordoba transforms into an open-air stage where residents organize, collaborate, and share. The crosses serve as gathering points for different generations, neighborhoods, and visitors. This social dimension makes the festival more than just a decorative event; it is a living manifestation of local tradition.
The official contest, organized by the City Council, has fostered active participation and meticulous attention to detail, making this festival one of the most representative in Andalusia cultural calendar
