Ṭulayṭula: Capital de la cultura árabe medieval

Abstract

Toledo is a very ancient city. It was one of the four Roman capitals and, later on, it was the capital and centre of communications and administration of the Visigoths, before passing into the hands of the Muslim Arabs.

The city is vital to any understanding of the history of Spain, especially during its Islamic phase; it was either the final destination or central point of the most important routes in al-Andalus.

The process of adopting Arab culture and integrating it into Spanish culture and the logical preservation of traditions which had their roots in the Visigoth era, are both highly relevant aspects of the importance of this medieval city, and a pale reflection of a great culture that makes Toledo unique in the Spanish-speaking world.

The study focuses on this great Spanish city, the jewel of medieval history in general, and of Spanish-Muslim history in particular.

Medieval Toledo or the Muslim kingdom of Ṭulayṭula طليطلة, is of great interest in the field of historical, linguistic and cultural studies, not only because of the city's splendour under Islamic rule, but also because it was one of the principal centres of culture in the world. This paper offers an overview of the historic and strategic situation of this city both during the period of Moorish dominion and following the Christian re-conquest. It also examines the social structure of the population and explores several linguistic aspects of the city, as well as providing examples of the modern-day city's Muslim Arab and Mudéjar heritage.