Page 429 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Spain

INTRODUCING SOUTHERN SP AIN  427

Moorish Arches
and used it as the basis of great architectural
The Moorish arch was developed from the endeavours, such as the Mezquita. Subsequent
horseshoe arch that the Visigoths used in the arches show more sophisticated ornamentation
construction of churches. The Moors modified it and the slow demise of the basic horseshoe shape.

Caliphal arch, Medina Azahara Almohad arch, Real Mudéjar arch, Real Alcázar Nasrid arch, the Alhambra
(see p483) Alcázar (see pp446–7) (see pp446–7) (see pp496–7)
Arcaded galleries Moorish Palace
provided shade The palaces of the Moors were designed with
around courtyards.
gracious living, culture and learning in mind.
The imaginary palace here shows how space,
light, water and ornamentation were
combined to harmonious effect.
Clay tiles

Moorish baths made use
Entrance halls were of steam and hot water. Like
complex to confuse Roman baths, they often
unwanted visitors. had underfloor heating.

Elaborate stucco work typifies the
Nasrid style of architecture. The Sala
de los Abencerrajes in the Alhambra
(see p497) was built using only the
Azulejos (see p444), glazed simplest materials, but it is nevertheless
tiles, often adorned walls in Water cooled the Moors’ elegant courtyards and widely regarded as one of the most
geometric patterns, as here served a contemplative purpose, such as in the outstanding monuments of the
in the Real Alcázar (pp446–7). Patio de los Leones in the Alhambra (see p497). period of the Moorish occupation.

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