Spain and Portugal were under Moorish rule for many years, with the southernmost Spanish province, Andalusia, still vividly showcasing its Muslim heritage. Known as Al-Andalus during the Moorish reign, today’s Andalusia is a beautiful mix of Arab architecture, lemon groves, shaded patios in hot cities, olive trees, and fountains. History thrives in every corner, making it unique in Europe.
Cordoba, Seville, and Granada are renowned for their stunning Moorish architecture. As you drive through Andalusia, you’ll notice whitewashed villages known as Pueblos Blancos nestled at the base of hills with fortresses, or Alcazabas, standing tall as tokens of the area’s Arab past.
The region’s ancient culture was notably urban, with the best Arab or Moorish architecture found in larger cities. Starting our tour in Cordoba, we see that the Arabs of the Umayyad dynasty conquered it in 711 and made it the capital of Al-Andalus. The medieval Visigoth fortress in Cordoba was redesigned into a Moorish palace, but the crowning achievement was the Great Mosque, or Mezquita.
Built on the site of a Visigoth temple, the Mezquita incorporated parts of the old structure. Completed in 987, it was the pride of Cordoba’s citizens during the 300 years of Moorish rule. When King Ferdinand III of Castile conquered Cordoba in 1236, the Mosque was transformed into a Catholic church. Subsequent kings added Christian elements, including a Renaissance nave that clashed with the original design.
The Mezquita, the largest Muslim building in Western Europe, features an expansive hypostyle hall supported by 856 columns of granite, jasper, marble, and onyx, topped with two-colored horseshoe arches. Despite its vast scale, the structure’s horizontal layout creates an intimate atmosphere. The mihrab, or prayer niche, is a highlight with its intricate designs and gold embellishments.
Today, known as the Mosque–Cathedral of Cordoba, it functions solely as a cathedral. While requests for Muslim prayers have been denied, the building continues to resonate spiritually with both Islam and Christianity, underscoring a hope for peaceful coexistence.
The entire old town of Cordoba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a blend of narrow, winding streets near the Mezquita and more orderly roads further out. Moorish architecture is evident in the plain exterior facades of buildings that conceal vibrant courtyards within. These patios, often with a central fountain, are cool retreats filled with plants and tiles, showcasing the heart of Moorish home life.
Every May, the Fiesta de los Patios festival invites everyone to explore these beautiful courtyards, but throughout the year, you can often catch glimpses of them as you wander the streets. The people of Cordoba take pride in these hidden gems, revealing the essence of their historical and cultural heritage.
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