Watch Global Treasures MADINAT AL-ZAHARA Mahdinat Al-Zahra Medina Azahara Cordoba Andalucia, Spain

Global Treasures MADINAT AL-ZAHARA is a documentary movie that takes the viewers on a fascinating journey to one of the most breathtaking historical sites in Andalucia, Spain. The movie primarily focuses on the Madinat al-Zahra, also known as Medina Azahara or "The Shining City," a palace-city that served as the seat of power for the mighty Caliphate of Cordoba in the 10th century.

The movie is a part of the "Global Treasures" series that showcases the world's most significant cultural and historical sites, monuments, and landmarks. The movie is shot in high-definition, providing a near-realistic experience of the palatial city and its ruins. A mesmerizing musical score complements the visuals, immersing the viewers into the movie's atmosphere.

The movie begins with an introduction to the Caliphate of Cordoba and its cultural accomplishments. The Caliphate was a Muslim state that flourished in the Iberian Peninsula from the 8th to 11th century. The Caliphate of Cordoba was the most formidable Muslim state during its peak, and its capital, Cordoba, was the largest and most advanced city in Europe.

The movie then dives into the history of Madinat al-Zahra, the palace city that was built during the reign of Abd al-Rahman III. The Caliph commissioned the city's construction to signify his power and glory over his subjects and rivals. The city was completed in just over forty years, and its lavishness and splendor astonished all who saw it.

The movie captures the magnificence of the city and its architecture, which blended traditional Islamic and Roman styles. The city consisted of the Caliph's palace, government buildings, gardens, baths, and a Great Mosque. The palace's most significant highlights were the throne room and the reception hall, which was adorned with gold, precious stones, and mirrors. The Great Mosque was a masterpiece of Islamic art, with exquisite ornamental features such as marble columns and painted vaults.

The documentary also provides an insight into the lifestyle of the Caliph and his courtiers. The Caliph and his court were known for their opulence and leisurely pursuits. They spent much of their time enjoying music, poetry, and culinary delights. The palace's vast libraries and learning centers were a testament to Cordoba's intellectual pursuits, and the Caliph was an avid patron of scholars and artists.

However, the Caliphate's prosperity was short-lived. Civil wars, political instability, and external pressures from other Islamic states led to the decline of the Caliphate, and the city of Madinat al-Zahra was destroyed during one such conflict in 1010 AD. The movie vividly captures the ruins of the city and its fading glory, highlighting the immense loss that occurred.

The movie ends with a narration of the efforts being made to preserve and restore Madinat al-Zahra's ruins. The site has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and ongoing excavations continue to reveal new insights into the Caliphate's history and culture.

In conclusion, Global Treasures MADINAT AL-ZAHARA is a visually stunning and informative documentary that provides viewers with a glimpse of the splendor and richness of the Caliphate of Cordoba and its seat of power, Madinat al-Zahra. The movie's cinematography and music make the experience immersive, and the history and culture it presents are eye-opening. This movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, architecture, and art.