Moors

Moors refers to the Muslim inhabitants of the Maghreb, the Iberian Peninsula, Sicily, and Malta during the Middle Ages, who initially were of Berber and Arab descent from North Africa. The term "Moors" has been used in Europe in a broader, somewhat derogatory sense to refer to Muslims in general, especially those of Arab or Berber descent, whether living in Spain or North Africa.

History

The Moors arrived in the Iberian Peninsula in 711 AD and called the territory Al-Andalus, which at its peak included most of modern-day Spain, Portugal, and a small part of southern France. They ruled for centuries, contributing significantly to the region's culture and civilization during the Islamic Golden Age.

Culture

The Moors were known for their advancements in various fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, philosophy, and architecture. They introduced new agricultural methods and brought with them many new crops including sugar cane, rice, citrus fruit, and cotton. The Moors also introduced the Arabic numerals and the concept of zero, which revolutionized mathematics.

Architecture

Moorish architecture is a variation of Islamic architecture. There are many surviving examples of Moorish architecture in Spain and Portugal, with the Alhambra in Granada, Spain being one of the most notable. Other examples include the Great Mosque of Cordoba and the Giralda in Seville.

Legacy

The Moors' influence on Spanish and Portuguese culture is evident in various aspects, from language and architecture to music and dance. The flamenco dance and music style, for instance, has Moorish roots. The Moors also left a lasting impact on the region's cuisine, introducing new ingredients and cooking methods.

See also

• History of Islam
• Islamic Golden Age
• Al-Andalus
• Berbers
• Arabs