Andalucía – The beacon of knowledge and cultural brilliance
My journey with Andalusia began back in 2012, right after I completed my masters studies. Fresh out of academia and as a history lover, I found myself exploring this magical region of Spain for the first time. Little did I know that this initial trip would spark a lifelong connection with Andalusia that would draw me back time and again. Almost a decade later, in 2019 during my post-doctoral studies in Barcelona, I returned. This time, my focus was on Córdoba and Granada – two cities that would leave a special place in my heart. And just recently, last year in 2023, I found myself wandering through Seville and revisiting Córdoba, each visit peeling back another layer of this incredible region’s story.
While Europe was navigating through its challenging medieval period (e.g., dark age), Andalusia was experiencing a remarkable era of intellectual and cultural brilliance. During a time when much of the continent was struggling, this region became a beacon of knowledge, where science, philosophy and art were flourishing. In this blog post, I’ll share my personal journey through Andalusia over the past decade. Through the eyes of a curious traveler and researcher, I’ll try to explore how this extraordinary region has been more than just a place to visit – it’s been a window into a rich, complex world of human achievement and understanding.
How it started
My fascination with Andalusia began during my master’s studies, thanks to my flatmate Juanmi Elcinto from Córdoba. Living together with Andalusian flatmate opened up a world of conversations that went far beyond typical student small talk. Juanmi would share stories about his hometown (La Rambla in Córdoba), painting vivid pictures of Andalusia’s rich history, culture and traditions. He introduced me to the nuanced layers of Andalusian identity – its Moorish (muslim) heritage, the mix of cultures and the unique character of its people. These conversations were more than just friendly chats, they were my first real window into the soul of Andalusia.
After completing my studies at Sapienza University of Rome in 2012, I was eager to turn my academic insights into real-life experiences. My cousin Besim and I embarked on our first adventure to Andalusia, with Granada and the Alhambra at the top of our itinerary. I returned to Andalusia in 2019 and again in 2023, each visit deepening my appreciation for its timeless charm and rich history.
Alhambra: The Fortress of Dreams
The Royal Alhambra Palace in Granada emerged during the 13th century under the vision of Muhammad Al-Ahmar, the remarkable founder of the Nasrid Dynasty. As the last Muslim ruler to govern a significant territory in the Iberian Peninsula, he transformed Granada into a cultural and architectural masterpiece.
My exploration of the Alhambra began with the Alcazaba, the fortress that stands as the oldest part of the complex, offering breathtaking views of Granada and serving as a powerful testament to Moorish military architecture. I explored the Generalife, a peaceful summer palace with beautiful gardens that once offered Muslim rulers a quiet escape from royal duties. In the Islamic world, water is more than just a resource – it is a symbol of life itself. Throughout the Alhambra, water becomes an art form. It appears everywhere – pools reflecting the sky, quiet fountains flowing gently, as if sharing stories from the past. Further, the Alhambra features advanced water engineering systems, such as the ingenious use of fountains and canals that supplied water to the gardens and buildings, showcasing the Moors’ mastery of hydraulics.
The real magic happened in the Nasrid Palaces, where two spaces completely captured my imagination. The Court of the Myrtles had this incredible reflecting pool that created a perfect mirror image of the surrounding buildings. But the Court of the Lions was something else – with its delicate marble columns and a famous fountain supported by twelve lion statues, it felt like walking through a living piece of art that told the rich story of Islamic craftsmanship.
Inside the palace, the Hall of the Ambassadors was a special place where the throne was and where official receptions took place. The throne room tells a powerful story of transformation. In 1492, this very space witnessed a pivotal moment in Spanish history – the surrender of the last Moorish king, marking the end of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula. It was here that Ferdinand and Isabella made their historic decision to support Christopher Columbus’s voyage (they said “Sí, señor” to Christopher Columbus), a choice that would reshape the world. Despite this dramatic change, the Alhambra’s legacy continued to inspire, its artistic brilliance and architectural elegance becoming a lasting treasure of Spanish culture.
Córdoba: The Jewel of Al-Andalus
Córdoba is a city where definitely history feels alive. On my visit, I had the chance to explore the beautiful Mezquita-Catedral Cóordoba, an incredible blend of Islamic and also Christian architecture. Back in the Moorish era, Córdoba was a hub of knowledge and culture, with scholars, poets, and even one of the biggest libraries in the medieval world. One of the most famous was scholars Ibn Rushd (Averroes), a philosopher and commentator on Aristotle, whose work greatly influenced both Islamic and European thought. Ibn Hazm, another prominent figure, was a philosopher, theologian, and poet known for his writings on ethics and his contributions to Islamic jurisprudence.
Cordóba as acity was ahead of its time with paved streets and public lighting when much of Europe was still catching up. Even today, you can feel that rich history in its narrow streets, vibrant squares and beautiful flower-filled courtyards. It’s a city that leaves a lasting impression at every turn.
The orange trees in the courtyard of the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba are a lovely sight, bringing bright color and a light citrus scent to the historic surroundings. Nearby, the streets are narrow and paved, with white buildings and flower pots, showing the city’s long history and traditions.
Seville: The Golden City of Al-Andalus
Seville is known as one of the most popular cities for Erasmus students, and it’s easy to see why. The city has an incredible energy, with its lively streets and welcoming vibe. During the Moorish period, Seville was a prominent cultural and economic center, known for its wealth, stunning architecture, and vibrant intellectual life. The city’s legacy from that time, particularly in landmarks like the Alcázar and La Giralda, continues to reflect its historical significance. During my visit, I stayed in a hotel right in front of La Giralda, and waking up to that view was something special. The atmosphere was amazing, especially in the evenings when the area came alive with music and chatter. I also loved exploring the Alcázar, with its stunning gardens and intricate architecture.
The Journey to Our Destiny
Andalucia, with its rich history and timeless beauty, offers us a powerful message: in our life, every delay has a reason. Every struggle we do is part of a divine design leading us towards our destiny. Every denial that we face is a test of our faith, pushing us to grow in patience and resilience. The path may not always be easy, but as the sun sets, we are reminded that it is always darkest before the dawn. So, hold on everyone. Our time is coming and the journey, with all its ups and downs, is shaping us for something greater.