Al-Andalus : The Mezquita (Cordoba Mosque)

[Xipe Totec]

Run time: 10:00 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rE2TxJiFqE   Posted on YouTube: March 14, 2008 By YouTube Member: EgyMuslim24 Views on YouTube: 30219   Posted on DU: August 17, 2010 By DU Member: Xipe Totec Views on DU: 387

 
Posted for those of you with a well developed sense of Irony...

The Mezquita dates back to the 10th century when Córdoba reached its zenith under a new emir, Abd ar-Rahman 111 who was one of the great rulers of Islamic history. At this time Córdoba was the largest, most prosperous cities of Europe, outshining Byzantium and Baghdad in science, culture and the arts. The development of the Great Mosque paralleled these new heights of splendour.

In the centre of the mosque squats a Renaissance cathedral which dates back to the early sixteenth century while, to the left is the Capilla de Villaviciosa built by Moorish craftsmen in 1371.

The Mosque was consecrated as a Christian Cathedral in the same year that Cordoba was re-conquered (1236). Alfonso X built the Villaviciosa Chapel with stunning multi lobed arches. The Capilla Real (Royal Chapel) was also built as a pantheon for Christian Kings.

In the 14th century Enrique II rebuilt the royal chapel in Mudejar style. In 1523 with the support of King Carlos V the church built a huge nave inside the mosque. The cathedral was elaborated on over the years by many of the country´s leading architects and artists. Architect Hernán Ruiz continued working transforming the Cathedral into Gothic style.

To this day, Spaniards refer to it as "La Mezquita" (The Mosque).

[CurtEastPoint]

1. I was there in April and it is just fabulous.

Rich in history, color, design...Muslim and Christian art. Amazing place. Go!

[Xipe Totec]

2. To me, the irony is in the crusade against the Cordoba Islamic center in NYC

To name it Cordoba, is to extend a hand of peace.

To evoke the melding of Islam and Christianity.

What fools we are.

[CurtEastPoint]

3. Indeed. In the words of Rodney King... n/t