In Spanish culture, the patio plays a major role in family and social life. Typical Spanish homes are U-shaped and the patios are located in the center of the home. The bedrooms and living room are on the first floor. Traditional patio features include a well or fountain, delicate arches, iron gates, pots full of flowers and gorgeous tilework. It is not uncommon to find a tiled portrait of a saint somewhere along the whitewashed walls. The rest of the patio's charm comes from the residents. Many Spaniards choose to decorate with other elements like classical statues and orange trees.
The residents of Cordoba take much pride in their patio gardens and enjoy showing them off. Photographs are taken as high compliments. During the month of May most patios are opened to the public for the "Festival de los Patios" and contest. Everyone basically goes "patio-hopping" to admire the gardens and enjoy spontaneous outbursts of flamenco song and dance. Whoever has the most beautifully decorated patio wins a nice prize!
I strongly recommend having a look at these beautiful patios any time of year, but especially if traveling in May. Juderia is a wonderful place to see them, but there are other locations around the city as well. I've been told that the San Basillo neighborhood west of Mezquita is also a fine place to have a look.