CORDUBA, in Ancient Geography, an illustrious city of Baetica, on the right or north side of the Baetis. Built by Marcellus, according to Strabo; but which Marcellus is not so clear. It was the first colony sent into those parts by the Romans; and named Patricia, because at first inhabited by principal men, both of the Romans and natives. It is mentioned by Sil. Italicus in the second Punic war; and hence it is probable the first Marcellus was the founder, and not the Marcellus engaged in the civil war between Caesar and Pompey. It was famous for the birth of the two Senecas and of Lucan (Martial), and for its rich produce in oil (Statius, Martial). Still retaining its name a little altered. W. Long. 5. Lat. 37°-45°.