Islamic Architecture and Hispano-Muslim Art History

Islamic Architecture: Form and Function

Islamic architecture primarily aims to express religious devotion and the universe's will. Structurally, materials were often modest (plaster, brick, wood, drywall, etc.), focusing decoration on the surface rather than mass.

Key Architectural Elements

• Columns: Common types include the padded column (a mixture of Corinthian and Composite styles), the cubic capital, and the mocárabe (stalactite) capital.
• Arches: Diverse forms were utilized: the horseshoe arch (of Visigothic origin), the túmido (pointed horseshoe), the lobular arch, and the mixtilinear arch (combining straight and curved lines).
• Vaults and Domes: Gallonadas (ribbed or segmented) vaults and domes are highly characteristic.

Principal Building Types

Mosques: The Center of Islamic Culture

Mosques serve as the backbone of Islamic culture. They are typically quadrangular and divided into several essential areas:

• Patio (Sahn): Surrounded by an arcade, featuring an indoor fountain for ablutions (ritual washing). The minaret (tower for the call to prayer) is usually located on one side.
• Qibla Wall: The wall oriented toward Mecca, guiding the direction of prayer. This wall highlights the Mihrab, a large niche often richly decorated with inscriptions from the Quran.
• Hall of Prayer (Haram): A covered area pointing toward the Mihrab, designed to accommodate the congregation during prayer.

Palaces: Walled Enclosures of Power

Palaces were typically quadrangular, walled enclosures. They often featured a central patio providing access to the rest of the complex. The interior was richly decorated and generally divided into three zones:

1. The entrance area.
2. Areas for official functions and parties (notably the throne room).
3. The Harem (the private area reserved for the lord and his wives).

The decor is luxurious, emphasizing rich plasterwork, marble, mosaics, and paintings. Calligraphic decoration, frequently featuring passages from the Koran, is also highly noteworthy.

Hispano-Muslim Art: Periods of Al-Andalus

The art and architecture of Islamic Spain developed through distinct historical periods:

The Umayyad Caliphate of Al-Andalus (The Heyday)

This period marked the zenith of Islamic art in the peninsula. Major constructions include the Great Mosque of Córdoba, the Medina Azahara Palace, and numerous castles.

The Taifa Kingdoms

During this fragmentation period, numerous walled fortresses (Alcazabas) were built, serving as residences for local governors. A key example is the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza.

Almoravids and Almohads

The Almoravid invasion halted the Christian advance, dethroned local kings, and reorganized Al-Andalus. Notable structures include the Mosque of Seville (now the site of the Giralda) and the Torre del Oro (Tower of Gold).

The Nasrid Sultanate of Granada

As the last Islamic bastion in the Iberian Peninsula, this period is characterized by its ornamental splendor. The city-palace of the Alhambra stands as the most charismatic exponent of Islamic art in the West.