The Mezquita of Cordoba - Spain
The Mezquita of Cordoba is one of the most important buildings of Islamic civilization and an important landmark for understanding religious history in southern Spain.
Built on the ruins of a Visigothic Church, the main mosque of Cordoba was begun in the 8th century. It was enlarged several times making it one of the largest mosques in the world. The marble pillars and stone work were taken from Roman and Visigothic buildings. The effect is an expansive space – almost as if an oasis of palms lifting into the sky.
After the fall of Granada, a decision was made to build a cathedral in the center of the mosque. A Gothic-style cathedral was erected with soaring arches and vaults and an ornate choir enclosure. Emperor Charles V was said to have been disappointed that the splendor and uniqueness of the Mezquita was diminished by the insertion of the cathedral.
Cordoba is an important destination for exploring the beliefs, practices and history of Islam in Spain. The ruins of Medina Azahara underscore the magnificence and power of Cordoba in the 10th century.
The Juderia of Cordoba (the Jewish Quarter) showcases some of the positive relationships that were forged between Muslims, Jews and Christians periodically. The Museum of Three Civilizations at the Torre de la Calahorra provides an interactive exhibit of the relationship between Jews, Muslims and Christians in medieval Spain.
Overview of the Mezquita and medieval center of Cordoba.
Learn more about Medina Azahara.
Learn more about the Museum of Three Civilizations.
To learn more about the Mezquita, visit Illume's bibliography (interfaith).