The Taifa Kingdoms

reconsidering 11th-Century Iberia

García Sanjuán, Alejandro (ed.)

The 11th century has traditionally been regarded as a turning point in the evolution of medieval Iberia. The dismantling of the Umayyad Caliphate of Córdoba gave way to a process of political and territorial fragmentation that contributed to weakening Islamic power vis-a-vis the incipient Northern Christian kingdoms and ultimately leading up to the establishment of the Almoravid dynasty. The Taifa Kingdoms: Reconsidering 11th-century Iberia gathers contributions from a diverse group of Medieval Historians, Arabists, Art Historians and Archaeologist seeking to explore new approaches to understand one of the most complex and fascinating moments in al-Andalus. From political history, to socio-economic organization, and artistic and scientific activities, the book covers a wide range of topics and issues from fresh perspectives.