Islamic style arches in generalife - Essay Example

The Generalife of Granada in Spain are the only example of Muslim architecture which gives us an rough idea of how these gardens initially, where in the Muslim spirit, in all improvised and its sensually instinctive construction, was finally carried away. The root of Islamic gardens for instance, dates back most likely to the Middle East, particularly to Persia (Curl & Curl, 2005 p., 35). The Generalife in Spain is composed of a series of huge gardens, where each corner holds a novelty or a pleasant surprise for the eyes, with less of obtrusive buildings.

Many times this is considered as a true reflection of Muslim occupancy at this era of history. Uniqueness of architecture of any nation or region is more often than not related to the culture of the people and their history of civilization and Spain is not an exception. Spain as a nation has a history of invaders particularly Muslims. By the 11th century, Islamic rulers had taken over Spain, and this lasted for a period of over 800 years. Likewise, the power of unifying Christian forces made Spain lose its authority over its northern territories.

The evidence is clearly reflected in the arches of Generalife and of the period that largely demonstrates a fusion of Islamic cultural traditions. The most beautiful and striking unique features in the Generalife gardens are the plants, the water with its continuous interplay with its sounds and light. Generalife can be considered to be one of the oldest surviving Moorish gardens. The Muslims grasped the use and design of the arch compared to any other civilisation. The unique attributes of the Islamic designs are observed all over Generalife.

The gardens and were constructed when Muhammad III (1302–1309) was in power and redecorated was done shortly after by Abu I-Walid Ismail (1313–1324). Observing the Generalife keenly, one can conclude that perhaps no culture was more conversant with the design and application use of the arch more than the Muslims.