Did Muslims take over Portugal and Spain?

In the 8th century, Muslims sailed from North Africa and took control of what is now Portugal and Spain. Known in Arabic as al-Andalus, the region joined the expanding Umayyad Empire and prospered under Muslim rule. But that legacy has been largely forgotten in the predominantly Catholic country.

How did Spain become Spain?

The Reconquista, the battle between the Christian kingdoms and the Moors lasted until 1492, and in 1512 the unification of present-day Spain was completed. Spain joined NATO in 1982 and became a member of the European Union in 1986.

How did the Moors influence Portugal?

The Moors constructed many castles, especially in the southern region of Algarve, to defend the land they had conquered. Military buildings were usually located on top of hills and other strategic places, which allowed the Moors to better protect their territories and trade routes.

Who influenced Spain?

Spanish culture was influenced by the Celtics, the Phoenicians of the eastern Mediterranean, the Carthaginians and the Germanic tribe known as the Visigoths. But, it was the Romans, and later the Muslims from North Africa, who played the greatest role in shaping Spain’s cultural future.

What is the influence of Arab Muslims on Spain?

The influence of Arab Muslims increasingly became part of the Spanish identity so that even now, Brazales said, their influence “can be clearly traced.” “I use the term Arab Muslims because not all Muslims are Arab and not all Arabs are Muslim,” explained Brazales.

Did you know Portugal was once part of Al-Andalus?

In Spain, most of the country’s inhabitants and a good number of its visitors are at least passingly, familiar with its Arab heritage. But it is less well known that Portugal, too, was at one time part of al-Andalus the land known in the West as Moorish Spain.

How did the Arabs make Portugal prosperous?

The Arab introduction of new agricultural technology, and the Arabs’ plain hard work, made Arab Portugal prosper. To this day, the common Portuguese verb mourejar means “to work like a Moor,” and it implies unusual diligence and tenacity.

How has the Iberian Peninsula been influenced by Arabic culture?

“The Iberian Peninsula has been profoundly affected by Arabic culture. That influence can still be seen today in the words and architecture we have adopted,” he concluded. Hannah covers events for the Department of Spanish and Portuguese for the College of Humanities. She is a senior pursuing a degree in art history with a minor in art.