In the 10th century the Caliph of Cordoba, Abd-al-Rahman III, began construction on a Medina Azahara. It would become the capital of Al-Andalus, or Muslim Spain.
Today I visited the museum and architectural site. I was quite impressed with the amount of work that has gone into the restoration and presentation of this large discovery.
Starting at the top of the site we can see here down to the residential portion of the palace. The three arches are a restoration of a facade leading into the portico of the prime minister's house.
This from the side of the Basilican structure that was used for some state functions but it is not clear what.
The Basilican structure was built towards the end of the reign of Abd al-Rahman III.
The Grand Portico opened up to the parade grounds where the caliph's military may have presented themselves to him before heading out on campaigns. This would also be a point of entry for visiting ambassadors and foreign dignitaries.
Like many palaces in Al-Andalus, Medina Azahara has extensive spaces filled with gardens.
The Aljama Mosque was one of the first buildings built in the city. It was on the lower terrace which signified the decreased role the mosque played in the political power of the caliphate at the time of Abd al-Raman III.
This is the exterior of the drawing room of Abd al-Rahaman III. Unfortunately it was closed to access for a restoration project.
Here is an oven that is still intact.
I hope you enjoyed these few pictures from my visit to Medina Azahara. This is only a taste of what I took today. If you would ever like to see more pictures I have taken just click on any picture to link to Nick Arnold's Gallery.
No comments:
Post a Comment