Where to See the Best Moorish Architecture in Spain?

Another masterpiece of Moorish architecture is the Great Mosque of Córdoba, also known as the Mezquita. This extraordinary building began as a simple Visigoth church before being transformed into a mosque in the 8th century by the Umayyads. Its most distinctive feature is the forest of columns topped with red-and-white horseshoe arches, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.

The mosque underwent several expansions over the centuries, each adding new layers of complexity to its design. In the 16th century, after the Christian Reconquista, a cathedral was built in the middle of the mosque, creating a unique blend of Islamic and Christian architecture that is unmatched anywhere in the world.

Also in Seville, the Giralda tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Originally built as a minaret for the Great Mosque of Seville in the 12th century, the tower now serves as the bell tower for Seville Cathedral. The lower portion of the Giralda retains its Islamic character, with intricate brickwork and arches that are quintessentially Moorish.

Climbing to the top of the Giralda offers panoramic views of the city and is a highlight for visitors. The tower’s blend of Islamic and Renaissance architecture reflects the city’s diverse cultural history, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in Moorish architecture in Spain.

For those with a keen interest in Moorish history, a visit to the archaeological site of Medina Azahara, located just outside Córdoba, is a must. This sprawling palace city was constructed in the 10th century by the Umayyad caliphs as a symbol of their power and prestige. Although it was abandoned and destroyed shortly after its completion, the ruins that remain offer a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of Islamic Spain.

The intricate design of the palaces and mosques within Medina Azahara reflects the peak of Moorish architecture, with exquisite carvings and decorative details. A visit here complements a trip to the Mezquita, offering a deeper understanding of Córdoba’s role as a center of Islamic power during the Middle Ages.

While southern Spain is often considered the heartland of Moorish architecture, the Aljafería in Zaragoza offers a stunning example of this style further north. Built in the 11th century by the Taifa rulers of Zaragoza, the Aljafería is a fortified palace with ornate interior courtyards, arches, and stucco work that recall the splendor of the Alhambra and other southern palaces.

Today, the Aljafería houses the Aragonese parliament, but visitors can still tour many parts of the palace and admire its architectural beauty. For those interested in exploring lesser-known Moorish sites in Spain, Zaragoza provides a fascinating stop, and it’s often included in itineraries like the Iberian Capitals and Gems of Andalusia.

Ronda, with its dramatic cliffs and deep gorge, offers a unique setting for Moorish architecture. While the town is perhaps best known for its stunning views, it also has several key Moorish sites. The Arab Baths, dating back to the 13th century, are remarkably well-preserved and offer insight into daily life during the Moorish period.

Ronda's Puente Viejo and the remains of the Moorish palace also provide glimpses into the town's Islamic past. Ronda is a quieter destination but offers a more intimate look at Moorish architecture in Spain, perfect for those seeking to explore beyond the major cities. The Spain Discovery tour includes Ronda and other hidden gems of Spain, ideal for a well-rounded experience.