Islamic Art and Architecture in Al-Andalus: A Historical Overview

Islamic Art and Architecture in Al-Andalus

Geographical and Historical Setting

Islam emerged between the 7th and 15th centuries, establishing a culture based on the new religion preached by Muhammad. Before Islam, the warring tribes of the region found unity under this new faith. In 622 CE, Muhammad fled from Mecca to Medina. This event, known as the Hegira, marks the starting point of the Islamic calendar.

The Quran outlines the simple, monotheistic precepts of Islam, influenced by Christianity and Judaism. These precepts include daily prayers facing Mecca, fasting during Ramadan, and a pilgrimage to Mecca.

Islam's unifying power led to the creation of a vast empire stretching from India to the south of France. Al-Andalus became a prominent province within this empire.

Historical and Artistic Periods of Muslim Spain

During the 10th century, Muslim art in Spain underwent a formative period.

1st Period: Caliphate of Cordoba (Early 10th - Early 11th Century)

This period saw Cordoba as the capital of an independent political and religious entity. Prominent Caliphs like Abderraman III and Al-Mansur contributed to the flourishing of "Caliphal Art."

2nd Period: Taifa Kingdoms (Mid-11th Century)

The Caliphate of Cordoba fragmented into smaller Taifa kingdoms. The Taifa of Zaragoza (1031-1085) stands out for its artistic contributions.

3rd Period: Almoravids (11th-12th Century)

The Almoravids, known for their religious rigor, arrived to reunite Al-Andalus and restore order. They were eventually replaced by the Almohads.

4th Period: Almohads (Mid-12th - Early 13th Century)

The Almohads established Seville as their capital.

5th Period: Nasrids (Mid-13th - Late 15th Century)

The Nasrid dynasty centered their rule in the Kingdom of Granada.

Fundamental Characteristics of Muslim Art

Muslim art in Spain evolved by incorporating elements from conquered territories, reflecting the diverse cultures and artistic concepts within the empire.

Deeply intertwined with religion, Muslim art showcased the power of the Caliph, the religious and civil leader. Mosques and palaces served as prominent expressions of this power.

Architecture played a dominant role, with simple structures adorned with elaborate decoration. Materials like plaster, marble, alabaster, mosaics, and occasionally wood were used. While painting was less common, it appeared in miniature books and scientific texts.

Decorative motifs included stylized plant forms (ataurique), geometric patterns (sebka and the diamond network), and calligraphy. The human form was generally avoided in religious art.

Ceramics held significant importance, with glazed earthenware and brightly colored tiles (zellij) featuring prominently in architectural decoration.