ONE OF MY FAVOURITE places to visit in Spain is the fortress complex of Alhambra in Granada. It is a gorgeous, sprawling compound, steeped in history and shaped by medieval Islamic architecture. As a matter of fact, it is perhaps the westernmost Islamic historical building in Europe.
The fortress complex was completed in the 13th century by the then-Emir of Granada, Muhammad I Ibn al-Ahmar, who was inspired by the Moorish architecture of the previous centuries. On the outside, it is formidable and imposing, a symbol of the Emir's military might; inside, there are lush gardens, crystal-clear pools, and stunning courtyards. Alhambra, along with many fortresses and palaces of the Islamic world of that time, exemplified a concept called the architecture of the veil.
This approach to architecture had developed as the early Islamic caliphates progressed into continental empires from the seventh century onwards. While subtle differences evolved as other cultures became part of the empire, the style and architecture by and large remained the same.
The architecture of the veil is typified by two features. Firstly, it features exteriors that, while ornately adorned, hide the magnificent gardens, water features, and general opulence of the interiors. Secondly, it's the use of moucharabieh, open work, and carved wood screens that cover windows and balconies, allowing those inside to view the outside world without being seen.
It reflects the sensibilities of the realm and era- it is important. t you project strength and power to outsiders, and allow only a select few to be privy to your inner subtleties and gentleness.
Denne historien er fra Issue 183-utgaven av August Man SG.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra Issue 183-utgaven av August Man SG.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
The Future Will Be Pixelated, Probably
What are the implications on one's lived experience as online life is rife with meaning and possibilities?
PARADISE FOUD
It's time to give tuning out its due. We all need a break from the group chat(s).
Sunday Island Mornings
An island cluster so beautiful that Harry Winston made a watch in its honour.
A Clear Vision Of The Future
With the proliferation of its Myopia Centres, local eyecare brand W Optics is keeping Singaporeans clear-sighted for the future.
MAKING INVESTING MORE DELICIOUS
FINANCE INDUSTRY VETERAN WALTER DE OUDE IS COMBINING HIS ERUDITION AND EXPERIENCE WITH THE STAR POWER OF HENRY GOLDING TO BRING US AN INVESTMENT PLATFORM THAT'S MUCH SWEETER THAN MOST.
HOW DOES A HOTEL BRAND BECOME THE BEST IN THE WORLD?
Cristiano Rinaldi, president of Capella Hotel Group, shares its recipe for success.
THE MAN OF MANY TASTES
On the opening day of his longgestating contemporary Italian restaurant Le Pristine in Singapore, the Esteemed chef Sergio Herman gives us a poignant account of why his philosophy of gastronomy is fundamentally inclusive.
BAPTISM BY FIRE
Dave Pynt, Chef-Owner of the Burnt Ends Hospitality Group, reflects on the universally resounding success of the eponymous restaurant as well as the recently released book of the same name.
VROOM VROOM
One of the most memorable moments of the recently concluded Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024 was when Jack Daniel's and McLaren linked arms.
FORGED IN RED
The Streamliner Flyback Chronograph Cortina Limited Edition brings H. Moser & Cie and Cortina Watch together in a bold, exclusive creation for the ages.