Sir Ridley is currently filming in northern Spain

Spain's Catholic Church has refused to allow Sir Ridley and his crew to film inside the Mezquita in Cordoba, saying it would be too disruptive.

The Gladiator director had wanted to shoot scenes for his �54m epic Kingdom of Heaven at the former Grand Mosque.

A spokesman for the producers said they were hopeful of negotiating a solution.

Neeson co-stars in the epic set during the 12th Century

"It's hopefully being rectified and we hope to get permission tomorrow (Thursday)," said Quinn Donoghue, the film's publicist.

Speaking to BBC News Online from Huesca, northern Spain, Mr Donoghue confirmed that the Spanish Church had blocked filming inside the Mezquita.

"The archbishop refused because we would close the cathedral down for preparations - we would have to do some 'dressing', and tourism would be stopped."

He said the Church was also unhappy that the Mezquita - for centuries a site of sensitivity among Muslims and Christians - would become a "fictional" place of worship in the movie, rather than "playing itself".

A huge company like ours brings so much to any place in terms of hotels, restaurants and hiring people Quinn Donoghue, film publicist

"All of that's being negotiated," said Mr Donoghue.

The film, due for release in 2005, will star Orlando Bloom and Liam Neeson in the tale of a young blacksmith leading the people of Jerusalem in defence against the 12th Century Crusaders.

Filming is taking place in France, Spain and Morocco.

Shooting inside the Mezquita would require up to 200 crew and involve the use of false doors, walls and furniture. "There's not a lot that we can do (to compromise)," said Mr Donoghue.

He added: "A huge company like ours brings so much to any place in terms of hotels, restaurants and hiring people. It's a major financial benefit to the community."

He said Sir Ridley was a "realistic and pragmatic" director who would allow his team to negotiate possible use of the cathedral. If agreement could not be reached, "there's always a second choice".