Ep 2. When the Moors Ruled in Europe

The Ancient World with Bettany Hughes is a historical documentary show that explores the great ancient civilizations and empires of the world. In season 1 episode 2, titled "When the Moors Ruled in Europe," the show delves into the history of Islamic Spain, known as Al-Andalus.

Bettany Hughes takes us on a journey through time to the 8th century, where the Arab and Berber armies of North Africa conquered the Iberian Peninsula in the name of Islam. The episode begins with the story of Tariq ibn Ziyad, the Muslim general who led the invasion of Spain in 711 AD. We learn about the fall of the Visigoth kingdom and the establishment of the Umayyad Caliphate in Cordoba, which would later become one of the greatest centers of intellectual and cultural exchange in the medieval world.

The episode explores the unique blend of cultures that emerged in Al-Andalus, where Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexisted and influenced each other in ways that would shape the course of European history. We hear about the famous scholars and poets of the era, such as the philosopher Averroes and the poet Ibn Hazm, who helped lay the foundations for the European Renaissance. We also learn about the spectacular legacy of Islamic architecture in Spain, from the Alhambra to the Great Mosque of Cordoba.

Bettany Hughes interviews scholars and experts in the field of Islamic studies to provide a detailed and nuanced picture of the Moors' rule in Europe. We hear about the challenges they faced in governing a diverse and often contentious population, as well as their achievements in science, medicine, and the arts. The episode also examines the impact of the Christian Reconquista, which began in the 11th century and culminated in the fall of Granada in 1492.

Overall, "When the Moors Ruled in Europe" is a fascinating look at a little-known chapter of European history. The episode provides a rich and engaging portrayal of a period marked by cultural exchange, religious tolerance, and intellectual enlightenment. Bettany Hughes does an excellent job of bringing this complex and multifaceted era to life and highlighting its enduring significance for our modern world.