The Alhambra
Considered as one of the most famous examples of Islamic art, the Alhambra is the culmination and grand finale of medieval Islamic culture on the Iberian Peninsula.
Islamic Architecture of Andalusia
Spain’s Islamic centuries (AD 711-1492) left a particularly rich heritage of exotic and beautiful palaces, mosques, minarets and fortresses in Andalusia, which was always the heartland of Al-Andalus (as the Muslim- ruled areas of the Iberian Peninsula were known). These buildings make Andalusia visually unique in Europe and have to be classed as its greatest architectural glory.
The Islamic Dyansties
This schematic chart provides a simplified picture of the political complexities of certain periods. (Large parts of Central Asia, China, South-east Asia and Africa have been omitted.) islamic dynasties mamluk manuscripts…
The Alhambra – A Virtual Walking Tour
To understand the Alhambra you need to look at its history, location and surroundings. It is situated on the hill of Sabika, overlooking the city of Granada. Alhambra means, literately, “The Red” and…
Nasrid plasterwork: symbolism, materials & techniques
This article provides an introduction to traditional materials and techniques used in Nasrid plasterwork as well as explaining their style and symbolism.
The art of Islamic Spain
Written by Countess Patricia Christine Jellicoe The Alhambra, site of the first presentation of the exhibition “Al-Andalus: The Art of Islamic Spain,” has been an Orientalist fantasy since.. Washington Irving rediscovered it…
History of the Nasrids of Granada
by Markus Hattstein The last Islamic kingdom in Western Europe and the rise of the Nasrids The last Islamic kingdom in Western Europe, the Nasrid kingdom of Granada, has always fascinated historians…
Qur’an case, Nasrid period (1232–1492)
Qur’an case, Nasrid period (1232–1492), second half of 15th century. Spain This small Qur’an case, a quintessential devotional and amuletic object, is inscribed with the Nasrid dynastic emblem: “There is no conqueror but…
Style in Islamic Art (1250 – 1500 A.D)
Ilkhanid style The Ilkhanid style flourished in Iran. It was formed from three traditions, Chinese, Iranian and Islamic, under rulers descended from the Mongol conqueror Chingiz Khan. Chinese porcelain and silks were imported…
