Watch Andalusia: The Legacy of the Moors

Andalusia: The Legacy of the Moors is a documentary film that explores the cultural and historical impact of the Moors in Andalusia, Spain. The film takes the audience on a journey through the region, exploring its unique architecture, cuisine, music, and art, all of which have been influenced by the centuries of Muslim rule. The film begins with a brief historical overview of the Moors in Andalusia, explaining how they arrived in Spain in 711 AD and established the Umayyad Caliphate in Cordoba. It goes on to describe how the region became a center of Islamic culture, with intellectuals, poets, and artists from across the Muslim world flocking to the cities of Andalusia to study and create.

The film then shifts its focus to the Alhambra, the palace complex in Granada that is considered one of the greatest achievements of Islamic architecture. The camera takes the viewer on a tour of the palace and gardens, showing off the intricate design and decoration that characterize the building. The film also explores the music of Andalusia, which was heavily influenced by Arabic and North African styles. Musicians and dancers perform traditional music and dances, showcasing how these art forms have been preserved over the centuries.

In addition to exploring the cultural impact of the Moors, the film also examines the political and religious significance of their rule. It talks about how the Moors created a society that was much more tolerant and diverse than the Christian kingdoms of the time. Muslims, Jews, and Christians all lived and worked together, trading ideas and engaging in intellectual discourse. This atmosphere of tolerance and diversity helped Andalusia become a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment in medieval Europe.

The film also looks at the legacy of the Moors in contemporary Spain. It shows how their influence can still be seen in the food, music, and art of the region, and how many Spaniards are now embracing their Islamic heritage. The camera follows a group of young Muslims as they visit the Alhambra and other important cultural sites, learning about their history and their place in contemporary Spain.

Overall, Andalusia: The Legacy of the Moors is a visually stunning and informative documentary that offers a fascinating glimpse into the influence of Islamic culture on Andalusia. It combines beautiful footage of the region's monuments and landscapes with insightful commentary from experts in the field, providing a thorough exploration of this important chapter in Spanish history. Whether you are a student of history, a fan of Islamic culture, or simply curious about Andalusia, this film is not to be missed.

Andalusia: The Legacy of the Moors is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 50 minutes.