Continued from previous post…
African Moors were known for their exceptional architecture and engineering skills, and they built numerous impressive structures, such as universities and mosques in Spain, which still stand to this day. They made significant contributions in various fields, including math, medicine, chemistry, philosophy, astronomy, botany, bricklaying and history. The African Moors were the first to introduce the use of Arabic numbers in Europe, which are still used today. They also made significant advances in medicine, developed treatments for various diseases and created medical textbooks that were widely used
Moors Origin
In 7th century when new religion of Islam was born in the Arabian Peninsula. Followers established a religious government and began to expand the empire into old weakened empires such as the Byzantines. Within 100 years this Islamic empire stretched from modern-day Morocco in North Africa to eastern Iran.
The Moors left a significant mark on medieval Europe, especially with their conquest of the Iberian Peninsula in 711 AD. They ruled over Spain for several centuries, transforming it culturally, socially and politically. However, the term “Moors” does not refer to a single, homogenous group, but rather to the medieval Muslim inhabitants of various regions, including Sicily, Malta, the Maghreb and al-Andalus.
Despite their influence on Europe, there is still a lot we don’t really know about the Moors and the time when they were a powerful contender within Europe. In this article, we will delve into 15 lesser-known facts about the Moors that shed light on their history, providing a deeper understanding of the Moors’ impact on European history and their enduring legacy.
Some distinctive feats and achievements of the Moors include:
1. The 711 AD Moorish Invasion Was a Major Clash of Cultures
The threat faced by Christian Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar was vastly different from anything they had encountered before. The Muslim Moors represented a distinct and unfamiliar culture, completely separate from the European Christian world. As a result of this clash of cultures, a new and distinct set of traditions and customs quickly emerged. Even today, the Moors’ influence on Spain is palpable, with traces of their culture evident in everyday aspects including language, food and architecture. Though the initial clash between Islam and Christianity was hostile, it ultimately served as a wellspring of inspiration, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to shape Spanish culture to this day.
2. The Lead Character of Shakespeare’s Othello Is a Moor
Shakespeare’s Othello, also known as the Moor of Venice, centers around a noble Moorish General in the employ of the Venetian army. This play demonstrates that even during Shakespeare’s time, the Moors remained an object of fascination in Europe due to their exotic appearance and distinct culture. Moreover, the historicity of Othello suggests that the Moors were highly skilled and cap
3. The Moors Introduced Numerous New Fruits and Vegetables to Europe
The Moors introduced a variety of fruits and vegetables that were previously unknown in both Spain and Europe, and thus deemed exotic novelties. These items included peaches, lemons, oranges, saffron, cotton, rice, silk, sugar cane, apricots, figs, dates, pomegranates and many others. Although commonplace today, during the Middle Ages these items were almost alien to the Spanish. Today, centuries later, they have become staples of Spanish production and diet.
4. The Arabic Numerals We Use Today Were Brought to Europe by the Moors
The classic numbers we all use and love today are of Arabic origin, introduced by the Moors upon their arrival into Spain. These numbers were quickly adopted as they were simpler and easier to use than the complex and aged system of Roman numerals. Additionally, the Moors also introduced paper to Europe, at a time when parchment, made of animal skins, was the common writing medium in medieval Spain. This was a major development essential for the progress of European civilization.
5. The Moors Were Several Steps Ahead of Medieval Europe
At the time of their conquest of the Iberian Peninsula, the advanced civilization of the Arabs was renowned for its architecture, science, mathematics and exploration. Upon their arrival in Spain, the Moors introduced architectural techniques that amazed European stonemasons. One of the most impressive examples of Moorish architecture is the Alhambra, a palace complex and fortress located in Granada, Spain. Construction began in 1238, and it surpassed any similar palace in grandeur and beauty. Today, it remains one of the best-preserved palaces of the Islamic world.
6. Chess Spread Throughout Europe Thanks to the Moors
Even though chess is over 1,500 years old, it was first introduced to Europe in its current form by the Moors. Chess spread from India to the Arabic world and was introduced to Spain by the Moors. It quickly became popular and swept across Europe’s courts and society. In medieval Spain, chess was a popular game of strategy and patience. The first written mention of chess in Spain dates back to 1010 AD, in the Catalonian Testament.
For more on the full story of the Moors stay tuned for our upcoming Newsletter Edition 8 to be published on our website www.globalafricantimes.com
Source: Ruth De Jager , www.ancient-origins.net , www.wikipedia.com
