Islamic Architecture in Al-Andalus: Umayyad to Nasrid

Construction System and Composition

The construction system is defined by arches that generate a second direction, with wooden beams on the ceiling made wider to provide support. Arches are positioned perpendicular to the Qibla, utilizing semicircular arches to support the structure alongside Corinthian capitals. The materials consist of grey and red bricks. Key components include:

• Beam-Wooden Roof Board
• Roof evacuation channel
• Plaster false edges vault
• Semicircular arch
• Rectangular pillar
• Horseshoe codal arch
• Roll modillion

Decoration and Structural Logic

Decoration features vegetal, geometrical, and calligraphic motives. The section of the pillar becomes wider to make it higher; otherwise, the columns would collapse, which is the primary reason for the second row of arches to prevent deformation.

Christian Interventions in the Mosque

After the fall of the Caliphate, the Mosque became a Cathedral in 1234. These interventions include Renaissance, Cardinal, and Primitive styles.

Medina Azahara: The Umayyad Dynasty

This palace complex was extended on platforms at the foot of the mountain, featuring white panels and marble floors. Gardens were placed randomly, creating a labyrinth effect. The Hall of Ambassadors was designed for reunions of the Caliphs, featuring an elbow entrance (access in "recodo"), wasp nest capitals, and connections to five pools. The arches are interlaced with each other.

Taifa Period Architecture (11th Century)

Alcazaba of Malaga

Constructed using rammed earth, these walls were designed for protection. They were cheap and easy to make, typically formed into rectangles and squares.

Palace of Aljaferia, Zaragoza

This site features interlocking label arches, paired columns, and the Musana Room for the Caliph. It includes a Christian Wall, a Qibla, and various pools.

Baths of El Bañuelo, Granada

These baths utilize horseshoe arches over small columns and are divided into the Frigidarium (Cold), Tepidarium (Normal), and Caldarium (Hot).

The Almohad Empire (12th Century)

The Great Mosque of Seville

Built by the Almohads (the unitarians) after they conquered Andalusia and made Seville their capital. It was the biggest mosque of the Almohad Empire, characterized by conservative architecture, 17 naves, and a transversal nave with five domes featuring a tumid arch supported by pillars.

Minaret: La Giralda

The Giralda is composed of two volumes wrapping one around the other, featuring an interior volume and a pavilion on top, which is now used as a bell room. The Almohads were masters in fortification, constructing barbican walls around their cities.

The Gold Tower (Torre del Oro)

Built in the 13th century, this Coracha tower was designed to protect the water rather than the city. It is a 12-sided volume located in the coracha to protect the port and water supply. Similar structures exist in Badajoz and Cáceres.

The Nasrid Dynasty and the Alhambra

The Alhambra (13th-15th Century) is a place of luxury. The Doors of Justice serve as the main entrance. The complex is divided into three palace complexes:

The Mexuar

The Hall of Justice is highly decorated. This is where the Shura and the Caliph met to administer justice, though it was changed during Christian times.

Comares and Patio de los Arrayanes

This area features the Courtyard of the Myrtle, with myrtle strips of vegetation and a central pond with longitudinal proportions that multiplies the volume of the arches through reflection.

Ambassadors Hall

The space for the King and counselors features a royal entrance and nine niches that open toward a central space. It is full of inscriptions, with carvings on the walls and roof that create a visual vibration.

Doors of Justice

As the main entrance, it features big horseshoe arches and a triple bend entrance with barrel vaults, serving as the primary entrance for protection.