The Muslim Walls of Madrid (Muralla Árabe) are the oldest standing structures in the Spanish capital city of Madrid. They were built in the 9th century, during the Muslim domination of the Iberian Peninsula. The walls protected a fortified complex, in which there were three preeminent buildings: the alcázar, the mosque, and the house of the emir or governor.
The walls were made of limestone and flint, and were ordered around square towers equipped with escarpments, portholes, and possibly battlements. They involved an urban perimeter of about 4 hectares, consisting of the deck and mezzanine, and access was through the doors of the Vega (west), Santa Maria (east), and Sagra (north).
The Muslim Walls of Madrid were declared a National Monument in 1954, but they have suffered considerable damage repeatedly. Today, only a few sections of the walls remain, which can be seen in Emir Mohamed I Park, near the Royal Palace.
Despite their fragmentary state, the Muslim Walls of Madrid are an important reminder of the city's rich and diverse history. They offer a unique glimpse into Madrid's Islamic past, and are a testament to the city's resilience and...
Read moreIt is right behind the Almudena Cathedral, and is open 24/7. They are a small piece remaining of what it known as the Muslim Walls of Madrid, or the Arab Walls of Madrid, It is from the 9th century and probably the oldest building on foot in the city. It was build mainly to defend the Almudaina or “Muslim City of Mayriq” (first name given to the city of Madrid how we know it today). Throughout the years was used for different purposes until it was severely destroyed to the remaining of what we now see. The fortified set had as mission to watch the fluvial way of the Manzanares, that communicated the passages of the Mountain range of Guadarrama with Toledo, threatened by the incursions of the Christian kingdoms of the peninsular north. It is worth the visit and since you can walk all around Madrid, it is a...
Read moreThe Arab Walls near the Royal Palace of Madrid are significant historical remnants dating back to the 9th century when the city was under Arabs rule and served to fortify the medieval citadel of Mayrit, the original name of Madrid.
Unlike the surrounding structures, the walls are made of limestone and red brick, characteristic of Moorish architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the city's arab heritage. Although some sections have been lost to modern construction, a substantial portion remains visible highlighting...
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