Spain is a culturally diverse European country located in the southwest and occupies around 85% of the Iberian Peninsula, shared with Portugal. Different cultures have built up Spain like Catalonians, Castilians, Galicians, Basques, Lusitanians, Arabs, and Jews. Islamic Spain had a mixed population of the three greatest monotheistic religions: Christians, Jews, and Muslims. During the Muslim era, all three lived together—though Christians and Jews lived under certain restrictions.

The Islamic history of Spain began in 711 AD with the Muslim invasion of the Iberian Peninsula, which was conquered within seven years. The Umayyad Caliphate of Cordoba in the 10th century became one of the greatest Muslim civilizations. Muslim rule formally ended in 1492 with the fall of Granada.

The heart of Muslim Spain was Andalusia (Southern Spain). The Muslim period stretched from 711 to 1492. Notable Islamic cities to visit include Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Toledo, and Madrid. Cordoba was the historic capital, and Granada was the last stronghold of Muslim rule.

6 Must-Visit Places in Spain for Muslim Travelers

If you're planning a visit to Spain, here are six historically rich and must-see places for Muslim travelers:

1. The Great Mosque of Cordoba (Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba)

The Cordoba Mosque, locally known as Mezquita-Catedral, dates back to the 8th century and is among the oldest Islamic structures in Spain. Just a 2-hour train ride from Madrid, it is one of the most popular heritage sites in the Western Muslim world and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

The mosque reflects various architectural styles including Omeyaran, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. It originally served multiple religions until Abderraman I demolished the basilica to build the mosque.

It features:

• The sahn (courtyard) and a minaret
• A prayer hall with red and white arched columns
• Five separate architectural extensions

Address: C. Cardenal Herrero, 1, Centro, 14003 Córdoba, Spain
Phone: +34 957 47 05 12
Ticket Booking: Link

2. Alhambra Palace-Fortress Complex in Granada

Alhambra, meaning "red castle" in Arabic, is located on a hill in Granada along the River Darro, surrounded by mountains and forests. It was initially a military zone and later transformed into the royal residence of the Nasrid Kingdom, founded by King Mohammad ibn Yusuf Nasr (Alhamar).

Built in the 13th century, the red-tinted walls and Islamic gardens make it a key attraction.

Address: C/ SAN ANTON, 72, Ed. Real Center, 1º Izquierda - LOCAL 39. 18005 Granada, Spain
Phone: +34 958 918 029

3. Madinat Al-Zahra, Cordoba

Located a few miles west of Cordoba, Madinat Al-Zahra is a significant archaeological site. Excavations have revealed major structures now displayed in a local museum.

It featured three terraced platforms:

• Upper terrace for government and royal ceremonies
• Middle terrace for gardens and pools
• Lower terrace for mosques, markets, and residences for military and merchants

Address: Ctra. Palma del Río, km 5, 5, 14005 Córdoba, Spain
Opening Hours:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday-Saturday: 10:00-20:30
• Sunday: 10:00-14:00
  Entry Fee: Applicable
  Phone: +34 957 10 49 33

4. Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo

Toledo's cathedral is one of the top 10 cathedrals in Spain, showcasing Gothic architecture, rose windows, and artworks by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco.

It holds Islamic significance because it was once the central mosque of Toledo, later converted to a church in 1085, and finally demolished 140 years later.

Address: Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Toledo, Spain
Phone: +34 925 22 22 41
Entry Fee: Applicable

5. Royal Alcazar of Seville

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Alcazar is located near Seville Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies. Originally a Muslim fortress under the Abbadid dynasty in the 10th century, it developed into a vast palace.

The architecture includes elements of:

• Islamic
• Roman
• Baroque
• Renaissance

Address: Patio de Banderas, s/n, Casco Antiguo, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Opening Hours: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm
Phone: +34 954 50 23 24

6. The Minaret of Seville’s Great Mosque — La Giralda, Seville

Originally built between 1184 and 1198, La Giralda was the minaret of the Almohad mosque in Seville. It's one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city. Under the Almohads, Seville was made the capital.

After King Ferdinand captured Seville, the minaret became the bell tower of the present-day Seville Cathedral.

Address: Av. de la Constitución, s/n, Casco Antiguo, 41004 Sevilla, Spain
Opening Hours: 10:45 am - 5:00 pm
Phone: +34 902 09 96 92