Islamic Art and Architecture in Spain: A Historical Journey
Islamic Art in Spain: A Historical Introduction
In 711, a new era began, rooted in oriental culture, with the convergence of Islamic and Christian influences. Islamic art flourished in Al-Andalus, while Romanesque and Gothic art emerged in the Christian territories. Islamic art placed significant emphasis on architecture, as the Koran discouraged the representation of images. Materials like plaster and marble were favored, with a preference for elaborate interior decoration that complemented the magnificent landscape.
Stages of Islamic Art in Spain
Cordoba Stage
This period encompasses the Emirate and Caliphate of Cordoba. The Islamists adapted existing architectural features from Hispano-Visigothic times. A characteristic element is the horseshoe arch, often larger than its Visigothic predecessors, featuring alternating segments and framed within an alfiz. Notable features include various types of vaults in the transept and ribbed domes. Lobed arches, particularly cross-linked poly-lobed arches, were favored. Double arches were used, and spsrejo was employed to rope and brand the walls.
The mosque typically consisted of two main parts: the sahn, or arcaded courtyard, with a fountain or sabil at the center for ablutions; and the minaret, a tower from which the muezzin summoned the faithful to prayer. The prayer room, or haram, was divided into aisles. In the quibla, the wall facing Mecca, the maqsura, a space surrounded by arcades, was reserved for the authorities. Adjacent to the maqsura was the minbar, or pulpit, from which the imam led the prayer. The mihrab, located in a small apse in the quibla, was covered with a dome.
Key examples include the Mosque of Cordoba, whose construction began during the reign of Abd al-Rahman I, the Palace of Medina al-Zahra (Cordoba), and the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz (Toledo).
Taifa Kingdoms Stage (1031-1090 approx.)
This phase emphasized ornamentation, particularly stylized plant motifs (floral decoration). A characteristic feature was the construction of walled citadels, such as those in Malaga and Almeria. A prime example is the Aljafería Palace in Zaragoza.
Almoravid and Almohad Invasion Stage (12th-early 13th centuries)
Decoration during this period featured diamonds or sebka, abundant epigraphic ornamentation, and interlacing motifs. The capital of Al-Andalus moved to Seville. Notable works include the Torre del Oro and La Giralda (the minaret of the former Seville mosque).
Nasrid Stage (early 13th-15th centuries)
This period saw the establishment of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. The ornamental sense was heightened, with decoration intended to conceal the building’s forms and materials. The semicircular arch with cusps became prevalent, and the muqarnas vault was a significant feature. The Moorish column was developed, consisting of a base, a smooth shaft, and shrouds at the top.
The Alhambra (Red Castle), built by Muhammad I and expanded by Muhammad Yusuf I and Muhammad V, is a prime example. It is surrounded by a defensive system and divided into two zones: the official area (Mexuar, Ambassadors’ Hall, and Comares Courtyard with its pool) and the private area around the Lions’ Courtyard (Hall of the Two Sisters, Hall of the Abencerrajes, and Hall of the Kings). The complex is complemented by gardens such as the Partal Gardens and the Generalife.
In the sixteenth century, Charles V constructed a Gothic cathedral inside the Mosque of Cordoba and a Renaissance palace in the Alhambra, marking a transition in architectural styles.