6 Sites every Muslim must visit in Spain

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Spain is one of the most diverse countries in Europe

Beautiful sunny beaches, dramatic mountain peaks, and cultural cities – Spain is one of the most diverse countries in Europe. It’s also full with history and culture which is alive within its vibrant communities. For Muslim travellers who want to immerse themselves in heritage while reconnecting to their roots, there are few places quite like Spain. From Moorish castles perched atop rugged mountaintops to grand cathedrals full of Islamic art, pilgrims can find unique sites that capture both the breadth and depth of Islamic civilization here. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or simply picturesque beauty – I present 5 must-see sites for any Muslim visiting Spain!

1. The Alhambra Palace

The Alhambra Palace is an islamic and muslim paradise that is simply exquisite. Located in Granada, Spain, it is the perfect spot for anyone wanting to dive deep into Islamic culture and explore its beauty and intricate artworks. From magnificent gardens to stunning architecture, visiting this islamic palace is sure to impress everyone upon entry. Within, guests can explore many islamic patterns and find stunning courts, decorated with intricate columns and balconies full of decorations. With one of the top islamic sites in the world, the Alhambra Palace should be a must-go destination for every muslim who visits Spain.

The Alhambra is one of the top tourist attractions in Spain and attracts a lot of visitors per day. Tickets to the Alhambra NEED TO BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE. You can purchase them here. Do not wait until the last minute! Get the tickets as soon as you know the date you will be in Granada. Also remember to bring your passport.

2. The Great Mosque of Cordoba

The Great Mosque of Cordoba is one of the most iconic islamic landmarks in the world, having been built around 785 AD when Muslims first arrived in the Iberian Peninsula. This is a particularly impressive feat as it predates old world islamic architecture like The Dome of the Rock by centuries. It is hard to choose a single most iconic feature of this immense structure, but many visitors cite its brightly decorated arches and intricate Islamic tiles as being particularly mesmerizing. When visiting the Great Mosque, it is easy to feel transported back to a time when Muslim Spanish culture was thriving and islamically-inspired art and architecture were prolific.

3. The Alcázar of Seville (al-Qasr al -Muriq)

The Alcázar of Seville is an iconic islamic palace constructed by the Moorish Muslim rulers in the Middle Ages. This magnificent structure is known for its beautiful architecture, with rooms adorned with intricate moorish and islamic designs in its gardens, courtyards and galleries. The interplay of sunlight and shadows cast through its elaborately designed windows is breathtakingly beautiful and accentuates the grandeur of this islamic palace even more. A visit to the Alcázar will transport you back to a time when muslim rule had a profound impact on Europe – and you can almost feel their presence as you explore this centuries-old palatial palace. There are a limited amount of entry tickets available per day, so you need to BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE. You can buy the tickets here. Do this as soon as you know your travel dates.

4. Medina Azahara

Medina Azahara is a beautiful islamic city situated in Southern Spain, near the mountain of Sierra Morena and is said to date back to around the 10th century. Under the Muslim Ummayad dynasty and their caliph, Abd ar-Rahman III, this majestic city that was to become known as “The Shining City” was constructed. Although much has been destroyed over the centuries due to earthquakes and military campaigns, Medina Azahara still stands strong today with many of it’s original islamic features preserved. A walk through these ancient grounds is like travelling through time, from its islamic palaces to its ornamental gardens and exotic fountains; it truly is an amazing experience.

5. The Aljafería Palace

The Aljafería Palace is a magnificent islamic palace located in Saragossa, Spain. It is a symbol of islamic influence on Spanish culture and architecture. The Aljafería Palace is an example of Mudéjar architecture that flourished in the Iberian peninsula during the 14th to 17th centuries. Its impressive elevated fortified walls, terraces and towers testify to the formidable defensive layout that was designed to protect its occupants. Inside, visitors are met with resplendent features such as its large courtyards decorated with arches, tile mosaics and cloisters. The beautiful interior also breathes islamic influences from many of it’s intricate designs on its walls and ceilings. Combining islamic artistry with a unique geography, the Aljafería Palace is nothing short of remarkable!

6. La Madraza Granada

La Madraza Granada is a remarkable testament to Islamic culture in Spain. It is the largest mosque of Medieval Islamic origin still standing in Christian lands, and is an incredible complex that is both architecturally and historically significant. The mosque is part of the beautiful old Albaicín area of Granada, which is dominated by Moorish architecture. The mosque dates back to the 14th Century when it was founded as an institute for higher education based on Islamic principles. Today it serves as a peaceful reminder of the strong Muslim presence throughout Spanish history, and remains one of the best things to see in Granada.

6 Sites every Muslim must visit in Spain