Spain 2013, Cordoba - Squatting Cathedral

While during the time of the Muslims all 19 doors of the mosque were open, so that its pillars looked like extensions of the orange trees outside, now only a couple of doors at either end are open. The atmosphere of the building has been changed from that of airy and brightly lit simplicity to one of half-light and clutter.

While during the time of the Muslims the hundreds of pillars and arches extended like date palms in all directions, this unique view has been desecrated by a squatting Renaissance cathedral coro (1523) that stands in the centre of the hall like an uninvited guest.

The conquering of the Mezquita by the Christians was not only a religious affliction for the Muslims but also an architectural disaster for the world.

In the words of Carlos V, who sanctioned the building of the coro, "You have built what you or others might have built anywhere, but you have destroyed something that was unique in the world."

Nuff said...