For how many years did the Muslims rule over Spain?

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By Kristy Tolley

Muslims in Spain

Muslims have a significant history in Spain, which is often referred to as Al-Andalus. They ruled over Spain for several centuries, leaving a lasting impact on the region’s culture, art, architecture, and language. The Muslim rule in Spain was characterized by periods of prosperity, cultural exchange, and religious tolerance, as well as conflicts and political instability.

The rise of Muslim rule in Spain

The Muslim rule in Spain began in 711 A.D. when the Umayyad general Tariq ibn Ziyad led an invasion of the Iberian Peninsula. The Visigothic Kingdom, which had ruled over Spain for several centuries, was weakened by internal conflicts and was no match for the Muslim armies. The Muslims quickly gained control of most of Spain, except for the northern regions.

The Umayyad Caliphate in Spain

In 756 A.D., Abd al-Rahman I, a Umayyad prince who had fled the Abbasid rebellion in the Middle East, established the Umayyad Caliphate in Spain. He made Cordoba the capital of the caliphate and brought stability to the region. The Umayyad Caliphate in Spain was characterized by a period of cultural and scientific flourishing, as well as religious tolerance towards Jews and Christians.

The height of Muslim power in Spain

The height of Muslim power in Spain was during the reign of Abd al-Rahman III in the 10th century. He expanded the caliphate’s territory, built impressive palaces and mosques, and established diplomatic relations with other rulers. Under his rule, Cordoba became a center of learning and culture, attracting scholars and artists from all over the Islamic world.

The decline of Muslim rule in Spain

The decline of Muslim rule in Spain began in the 11th century, as the caliphate fragmented into smaller states, and conflicts between different Muslim factions intensified. The Christian kingdoms in the north of Spain also became more powerful, launching several campaigns to reconquer territories from the Muslims.

The fall of Granada

The last Muslim state in Spain was the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada, which was founded in the 13th century. Despite its relative strength and wealth, Granada was unable to resist the combined forces of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, who conquered the city in 1492.

The end of Muslim rule in Spain

The fall of Granada marked the end of Muslim rule in Spain. Muslims who remained in Spain after the conquest were forced to convert to Christianity or leave the country. The expulsion of the Moriscos, or Muslims who had converted to Christianity, in the 17th century marked the final chapter in the history of Islam in Spain.

The impact of Muslim rule in Spain

The Muslim rule in Spain had a profound impact on the culture, art, and architecture of the region. Muslim scholars made significant contributions to fields such as medicine, mathematics, and astronomy. Islamic art and architecture, such as the Alhambra palace in Granada, are still admired today for their beauty and sophistication. The Arabic language also left a lasting impact on the Spanish language, with many Spanish words having Arabic origins.

How long did the Muslims rule over Spain?

The Muslims ruled over Spain for approximately 781 years, from 711 A.D. to 1492 A.D. This period was characterized by periods of prosperity, cultural exchange, and religious tolerance, as well as conflicts and political instability.

Conclusion: A legacy of Muslim Spain

The Muslim rule in Spain left a lasting legacy on the region and the world. It was a period of cultural and scientific flourishing, marked by religious tolerance and coexistence. The impact of Islam can still be seen today in the art, architecture, and language of Spain. The history of Muslim Spain is a testament to the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region.

References: Sources for more information

  • Bennison, A. K. (2016). Muslim Spain, 711-1492 A.D: A Sociopolitical History. Routledge.
  • Kennedy, H. (1996). Muslim Spain and Portugal: A Political History of al-Andalus. Routledge.
  • Menocal, M. R. (2002). The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews, and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain. Little, Brown.
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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