When the Moors Ruled in Europe (2005)
In the captivating documentary When the Moors Ruled in Europe, presented by the esteemed English historian Bettany Hughes, viewers are transported to a pivotal period in European history. This two-part series delves into the remarkable contributions made by the Moors during their 700-year reign in Spain and Portugal, which concluded in the 15th century.
1. The Moors’ Influence: The film takes us on a journey through the Iberian Peninsula, where the Moors left an indelible mark. Their impact extended far beyond mere conquest; it was a cultural and intellectual renaissance. We witness the 8th-century conquest of the Visigothic realm, the northward expansion into southern Gaul (culminating in the famous Battle of Tours in 732), and the complex ebb and flow of various Muslim states that rose and fell across what is now modern Spain and Portugal.
2. Andalusia: A Center of Brilliance: Andalusia emerges as a vibrant hub—a melting pot where Christians, Jews, and Muslims coexisted. Their interactions fostered a unique blend of knowledge, art, and science. The region became a beacon of enlightenment, far ahead of its time. The cities of Granada, Cordoba, and the Moroccan city of Fes serve as our backdrop, revealing architectural marvels, intricate manuscripts, and the echoes of a rich cultural exchange.
3. The End of an Era: The Moors’ reign eventually faced the relentless tide of the Reconquista. As Catholic forces reclaimed territories, they also extinguished over 1,000,000 Arabic texts—a tragic loss of human knowledge. The year 1492 marked a turning point, as the last Moorish stronghold, Granada, fell to the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella.
4. Challenging Misconceptions: Contrary to popular belief, this documentary challenges the prevailing notion that the Muslim occupation of Spain was solely marked by conflict and oppression. Instead, it paints a nuanced picture of a period characterized by cultural exchange, scientific advancements, and artistic brilliance.
When the Moors Ruled in Europe invites us to reconsider history’s narratives, urging us to recognize the Moors’ enduring legacy. Their influence reverberates through the centuries, reminding us that the past is rarely monochromatic—it is a tapestry woven with threads of complexity, brilliance, and resilience.
This thought-provoking documentary serves as a testament to the power of knowledge, tolerance, and the shared human experience across time and borders.
