Moorish Delights

I had a simple but profound realization here in Spain: that in spite of all the extraordinary architectural and natural wonders I saw, like the exquisite Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Alcazar in Seville, and The Sagrada Familia Church in Barcelona, what gave me the most happiness and satisfaction was the camaraderie and laughter I found in the diverse group of Americans on our tour bus. In particular, my husband and I enjoyed our conversations with people who were emigres to the U.S. These are the new faces of America. They came from Chile, Bolivia, Indonesia and India. While we are currently dealing with a period of increasing plurality in America, the country we were touring always had a rich texture.

Spanish history is full of examples of the clash of cultures and sometimes inspiring episodes of peace. Visigoths, Romans, Christians and Muslims all held sway at one time or another in Spain. It’s not unusual to find mosques that had been recast as churches. In Toledo, we even came across a synagogue designed and built in the style of a mosque by a Muslim architect. It later became a church and is currently a museum incorporating elements from three major religions.

I have travelled to many European countries but this was new to me-at least the extent to which it happened. I particularly loved the architectural and artistic legacy of the Moors from North Africa. They were in Spain for 800 years and also left behind 3,000 Arabic words in the Spanish language. They introduced rice, dates and artichokes to Spain. Where would the most Spanish of dishes, Paella, be without rice?

Moorish architecture especially the Alhambra or Red Palace is a rare jewel in the crown of Spain. It is one of Europe’s greatest attractions. Also stunning, is the Alcazar in Seville. Each site brought the glories and battles of the past right before us again – old kingdoms, caliphates, the Christian re-conquest etc. Although kingdoms came and went, there was a period lasting up to 500 years when Muslims, Jews and Christians lived in peace.

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