Watch Cities of Light: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain

Cities of Light: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain is a 2007 documentary film that explores the rich history and legacy of Islamic Spain. The film examines the Golden Age of Islam in Spain from the time of the Umayyad conquest in 711 A.D. to the fall of Granada in 1492. The film offers a visually stunning tour of the magnificent cities of Spain, including Cordoba, Sevilla, Granada, and Toledo. It showcases the magnificent Islamic architecture of these cities, with their magnificent palaces, mosques, and public spaces. The film also explores the influence of Islamic culture on art, science, and literature, and how it influenced European culture.

The film is narrated by Roman Grigaravicius and Arturas Nemanis, who guide us through the rich history of Islamic Spain. They explain how Spain was a center of learning and culture, where Muslims, Jews, and Christians all came together to create a unique and vibrant society. They also explore the complex relationship between the different religious groups, and the conflicts that sometimes arose.

The documentary uses a mix of archival footage, interviews with experts, and stunning location footage to bring the story of Islamic Spain to life. It explores the complex political and social structures of the region, and how they shaped the culture of Spain.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its focus on the role of women in Islamic Spain. The film explains how women played a significant role in the cultural and political life of the region, and how they were able to take advantage of the relative freedom and independence provided by Islamic culture.

Overall, Cities of Light: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain is a fascinating and engaging look at one of the most important periods in European history. The film offers a unique perspective on the cultural and intellectual achievements of Islamic Spain, and how they shaped the fabric of European society for centuries to come. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Europe and the Middle East.

Cities of Light: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 54 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.