The Components of Tourism in the City of Cordoba during the Umayyad Era (138-422 AH / 756-1031 CE)

Abstract

Tourism is considered one of the vital industries and activities that experienced significant growth during the Islamic era. The city of Cordoba represented the ideal model of tourist cities in Al-Andalus due to its prosperity, development, distinctive geographical location on the Great River (Guadalquivir), and its unique architectural and artistic structures. Among these is the Great Mosque, considered one of the masterpieces of Islamic architecture, unparalleled in Islam. The palaces and cities carrying exceptional and unique values in the fields of art and architecture were also present. Additionally, the existence of public facilities such as markets, hotels, baths, and the improvement of roads and bridges served as evidence of the high number of visitors to Cordoba. These were among the elements of tourism that the Umayyad princes and caliphs sought to focus on, making Cordoba worthy of receiving traders and tourists from around the world.