fbpx
Saturday, January 25 2025

 

Spain—known around the world for tapas and vino to be enjoyed in the envied siesta hours in the late afternoon—holds more in store for a TCK than just the gastronomic fanfare. Spain is also home to some of the most elegant architecture that has also been recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mudejar architecture of Aragon is known for its eclectic blend of contemporary European styles blended with Islamic Al Adulus style architecture. This unique style of architecture defines the cultural dynamic that occurred throughout the twelfth to the seventeenth century when Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultural elements blended together to create a style all its own- Mudejar.

TCKs can feel at home in this culturally mixed atmosphere that takes aesthetics from each culture and melts them into one dynamic and beautiful art piece.

El Tránsito Synagogue (Samuel ha-Leví)

One of the most important Mudejar buildings in Spain
One of the most important Mudejar buildings in Spain. Photo from www.spainisculture.com

Located: Toledo, Castile- La Mancha

Significance: This breathtaking building blends both Christian and Jewish elements to create a cultural mosaic displayed as a house of worship. Recognized for its intricate geometric and floral pattern, the Synagogue features both Arabic and Hebrew inscriptions.

La Merced Church and Tower

Merced Tower and Church
Made up of three distinct bodies, the church’s two bodies was build in the Mudejar period. Photo from spainisculture.com

Located: Teruel, Aragon

Significance: Originally constructed in the sixteenth century, La Merced is a true piece of Mudejar style however continued construction into the eighteenth century incorporated some Baroque elements. Both styles contribute to the beauty that stands today in the heart of Aragon.

Royal Monastery of Santa Clara

To see how Mudejar-style influenced this design, you have to take a peak inside.
To see how Mudejar-style influenced this design, you have to take a peak inside. Photo from flickr.com

Located:  Valladolid  (Castile-Leon)

Significance: The decorative, Gothic-style monastery incorporates Mudejar style in the intricate ceiling featured below. The blend of the two styles makes for one extraordinary cultural masterpiece.

Decorative arches is a cornerstone of Mudejar-style architecture.
Decorative arches is a cornerstone of Mudejar-style architecture. Photo from spain.info

Santa Maria of Mediavilla Cathedral

Santa Maria Cathedral in Truel features a Mudejar-style tower.
Santa Maria Cathedral in Truel features a Mudejar-style tower. Photo from actualidadviajes.com

Located: Teruel, Aragon

Significance: Constructed in the thirteenth century, the Mudejar tower adds a hint of Arabic to this Catholic cathedral, which makes the whole piece all the more memorable.

Previous

Chefchaouen Part 1: The Importance of Blue

Next

Women's International Month: TCK Women of Colorado

About Author

Samantha Malpiedi

Samantha Malpiedi is a columnist for Culturs and is especially interested in current issues around the world that affect people and the way they make their livelihoods. Her cultural awareness education began at age fifteen when she traveled to five different countries including parts of Europe, Mexico and Kenya and ended in her time spent living in Chile at age 21. From these experiences she developed her love for travel and the appreciation for culture. As a duo-language speaker, she thrives in environments where communication spans cultures. Never complacent to stay in one place, her articles will interest anyone that might resonate with a restless nomad, hungry for a taste of travel.

Check Also

Verified by MonsterInsights