In the 8th century, the Iberian Peninsula saw the arrival of Arabs and Berbers who mixed with the Roman-Visigoth inhabitants, engendering what was known as al-Andalus. This successful medieval Muslim civilisation extended, at its peak, to most of what is today Spain and Portugal, until its downfall in the late 15th century.

Heritage

Beyond the impressive architectural heritage, with La Alhambra as a paradigmatic example, these routes bring back to life the literature, art, science, graphic arts, gastronomy, fiestas and traditions of al-Andalus. Eight centuries of coexistence left a profound mark on the land and its people, so the Andalusi legacy is alive and is everywhere.

 Travelling today

There are several routes joining all the countries with a shared cultural identity that help us understand today's Spain. Routes like the Umayyad cultural itinerary trace the footsteps of the Arabs, from the Arabian Peninsula through the most emblematic capitals of Dar-al lslam, until they reached Al-Andalus. Once in Southern Spain, the in-depth exploration begins, following routes crisscrossing the entire region, including more than 250 towns off the beaten track. These communication lines to distant lands offer the traveller a truly international cultural experience.