Glossary of Terms

The centuries-long period of Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim rule (711-1492)

The Arabic name for the Iberian Peninsula under Muslim rule

Small independent Muslim kingdoms that emerged after the fall of the Caliphate of Córdoba

Islamic state led by a caliph, a supreme religious and political leader

Territory ruled by an emir, a Muslim commander or prince

Knights or horsemen in medieval Spanish armies

Light infantry troops known for their guerrilla warfare tactics

Light cavalry armed with javelins and swords

A type of Moorish castle or palace fortification

Christians living under Muslim rule who adopted some Arab customs

Muslims living under Christian rule

Muslims who converted to Christianity, often forcibly

Religious military organizations like the Knights of Santiago and Calatrava

The period of relative coexistence between Christians, Muslims, and Jews

Tribute payments made by Muslim taifas to Christian kingdoms

Supreme Muslim civil and religious ruler

Muslim commander, governor, or prince

The buffer zone between the Frankish Empire and Al-Andalus

The frontier region between Christian and Muslim territories

The first Muslim dynasty to rule Al-Andalus

North African Berber dynasty that invaded and ruled parts of Iberia

North African Berber dynasty that succeeded the Almoravids

The last Muslim dynasty in Iberia, rulers of Granada