When the Moors Ruled in Europe

When the Moors Ruled in Europe is an engaging historical documentary, exploring a period of history that is often overlooked – when the Moors ruled over Europe, particularly Spain and Italy, for almost 400 years during the Middle Ages. This 2005 film is directed by Timothy Copestake and features the charismatic historian Bettany Hughes as the narrator and presenter.

At the heart of the film is a desire to correct the misconceptions and erasures that have come to dominate the narrative surrounding the impact of Moorish rule in Europe. Hughes draws viewers into a forgotten era of enlighted Islamic culture that once swept the European continent, making multiple groundbreaking contributions.

Entering the film, we are instantly taken back to the 8th century when the Moors, largely Muslims from North Africa, crossed the Strait of Gibraltar and conquered most of Spain. This was a time referred to as the Medieval Islamic Civilization, and it ushered in a period of remarkable political, social, and cultural transformation in European history.

Hughes, known for her enthusiasm and deep knowledge of history, leads viewers through a blend of commentary, on-the-spot reports, and interviews with experts. Throughout the film, she speaks with scholars like Antonio Almagro, a historian specializing in Islamic art and architecture, and Moussa Aouni, a historian and Islamic cultural expert. These insightful exchanges bring a multi-faceted understanding of this dynamic era in history.

As the film unfolds, Hughes explores the dominant narrative that has over time, painted the Moorish rule as a brutal and oppressive era. In its place, Hughes presents a balanced view, showcasing not only the military conquests but also emphasizing the significant contributions to knowledge and culture.

This period inspired remarkable advancements in science, arts, philosophy, and architecture — showing the flourishing of a civilization fueled by intellectual curiosity and religious tolerance. The documentary takes viewers through some of Europe's iconic landmarks such as Spain's Alhambra Palace and the Great Mosque of Cordoba, which bear an indelible Moorish architectural imprint.

Hughes’s directive is not just historical exploration, but an attempt to highlight the often-ignored influence of the Moors on European culture, thought, and lifestyle. She delves into their contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and medicine, as well as their role in the preservation and interpretation of ancient Greek philosophical texts during the Dark Ages, ultimately paving the way for the European Renaissance.

This documentary also portrays brilliantly a picture of a society that was not only rich and powerful but also dared to breach the divide between Christianity and Islam, a feat rarely achieved even till date. Hughes's captivating narration brings to life the vibrancy and multicultural influences that characterized street scenes in cities like Granada and Cordova, where Muslims, Christians, and Jews lived side-by-side, leading to a diverse and eclectic mix of cultures.

When the Moors Ruled in Europe takes viewers on a fascinating journey through a little-known chapter of history. It challenges preconceived notions about the Middle Ages in Europe being a period of darkness, barbarian invasions, and religious battles. Instead, it shines a new light on this era - revealing a chapter filled with enlightenment, intellectual growth, and cultural fusion.

The film is an enriching watch for history enthusiasts, academics, and anyone interested in gaining a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of a pivotal period in Europe's past. Beyond history, it's a celebration of diversity, a testament to the power of coexistence and profound intellectual exchange among different cultures and religions.

Hughes’s engaging storytelling style, combined with the film's stunning photography and graphic reconstructions, creates a compelling and immersive viewing experience. With its unique blend of expert analysis and vivid historical reconstructions, When the Moors Ruled in Europe stands as a significant contribution to historical documentary filmmaking. It's a reminiscence of an age where knowledge and cultural exchange flourished, shaping Europe to what it is today.