Expansion of the Mosque of Cordoba

Founding and Initial Construction

• Founded by Abdel-Rahman I in 786.
• Initial mosque construction to serve faithful Muslim population.

Expansion Phases

• Three phases of expansion to accommodate growing numbers of devotees.
• By the 10th century, became the largest mosque in the world after Mecca.
  • Area: 23,000 square meters.

Notable Extensions

• Remarkable extension by Caliph Al Hakam II.
  • Featured a sumptuous mihrab (niche in mosque wall indicating direction of Mecca).
  • Decorated with gold.
• Architectural significance of the mihrab:
  • Essential piece present in all mosques.
  • Indicates the direction of Mecca, vital for prayer.
  • Large and gives a sense of entering a space leading to the afterlife.

Architectural Design

• Central nave designed to evoke a path leading to the mihrab.
• Mihrab seen as a door of light leading to heaven and true Islam.

Historical Context and La Reconquista

Muslim Dominance and Challenge

• Muslims dominated the Iberian Peninsula for over five centuries.
• Threatened by Christian-led battles aiming to drive Muslims out.

La Reconquista

• Known as the Reconquest of Muslim territories.
• Ferdinand III takes Cordoba in 1236.
• End of Muslim worship in the mosque.

Decision by Ferdinand III

• Unexpected decision not to destroy the mosque building.