In the heart of Córdoba, history and literature converge in magical corners like Casa Sirfantas, a place that directly connects with one of the most universal literary figures: Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Our location on Calleja de Gragea nº 2 not only offers an exceptional place to stay but also a historical connection to Cervantes’ childhood, as it is believed he may have lived here during part of his early years.
Cervantes’ Childhood in Córdoba: A Literary Mystery
Miguel de Cervantes, author of The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, had a childhood shaped by his family’s travels. His father, Rodrigo de Cervantes, was a barber-surgeon who worked at the Hospital de la Caridad, now home to the Fine Arts Museum and the Julio Romero de Torres Museum. During this period, the Cervantes family resided in Córdoba, and research suggests Calleja de Gragea as a possible address for their home.
Today, Casa Sirfantas occupies this same space, a place rich in history that invites visitors to imagine the days when young Miguel might have played along these cobblestone streets.
Plaza del Potro: A Quintessential Cervantine Corner
Just a few minutes from Casa Sirfantas lies Plaza del Potro, a place immortalized by Cervantes in his masterpiece, Don Quixote. In the chapter where Don Quixote and Sancho Panza seek lodging, the Posada del Potro is mentioned, an old inn that still stands and now serves as a space dedicated to flamenco. Today, the Posada del Potro – Fosforito Flamenco Center is dedicated to the interpretation, production, research, and promotion of flamenco. The center is built around two main pillars:
- The Posada del Potro: A 15th-century corral de vecinos (shared courtyard) that functioned as an inn until 1972, with a long, rich history and cultural value.
- Antonio Fernández, Fosforito: A renowned flamenco singer from Córdoba and one of the most significant figures in the world of flamenco.
Plaza del Potro has been a hub of social and commercial life since the late Middle Ages, hosting livestock markets and attracting colorful characters from the picaresque tradition. The square also features a plaque honoring Cervantes, commemorating his connection to the city.
In the same square, you can visit the Fuente del Potro, a fountain crowned by the iconic sculpture that gives the plaza its name, and the former Hospital de la Caridad, which provided care to the most destitute during Cervantes’ time. This building, now a museum, reflects Córdoba’s historical and artistic splendor.
Experience History at Casa Sirfantas
Staying at Casa Sirfantas is not just about comfort in a prime location; it’s about immersing yourself in a Córdoba where the city’s stories and literature intertwine. From here, you can explore Cervantes’ heritage and uncover the secrets of the Córdoba that inspired one of the greatest writers of all time.
Book your stay at Casa Sirfantas and embark on a journey that combines history, literature, and the charm of Córdoba. We look forward to welcoming you!