The Bright city.

 

Medina al-Zahra, also known as the 'Bright City', is a must-visit destination for archeology enthusiasts. It boasts exceptional preservation and a rich history dating back to the 10th century. Constructed under Caliph Abd ar-Rahman III of the Umayyad dynasty, this ancient city tragically fell victim to destruction during civil unrest and remained abandoned for a millennium. Its rediscovery in the 20th century marked the commencement of thorough excavations.

Nestled in the Guadalquivir valley at the foot of the Sierra Morena mountains, just 8 kilometers outside Córdoba, a city in Andalusia, Spain, lies a remarkably preserved archaeological site. It features buildings, intricate water systems, bridges, roads, and various artifacts unearthed through ongoing excavations.

Medina al-Zahra's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018 has led to a 40% rise in visitor numbers. Its preservation as a singular Caliphate city subject to ongoing investigation secured its heritage status. Cairo and Baghdad, though similarly Caliphate cities, are inaccessible for restoration due to extensive urbanization.

A notable aspect of the Caliphate city's discovery is its centuries-long seclusion, with the site being used exclusively for livestock grazing between the 11th and 20th centuries.

To date, merely 10% of the city has undergone excavation, with ongoing work in progress. Since 1985, the site, primarily publicly owned, has been managed by a dedicated body responsible for its excavation, protection, conservation, and restoration.

The skillful restoration of two rooms revealed remnants of paintings, columns, and tiled borders in the Corinthian style, rooms that were officially recognized as a National Monument in 1923.

With its wealth of historical and cultural significance, Spain is home to countless heritage sites that provide a window into its intriguing past.

My visit to this unique site left an enduring impression, instilling in me a heightened regard for Spain's cultural treasures and reaffirming the significance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations and its influence on our collective identity.