Córdoba hosts an International Congress on the Mozarabs
The Mozarabic Christians living in Al-Andalus during the Islamic period were foreigners on their own land. This was highlighted during the international congress on Mozarabic culture that began on Thursday in Córdoba. Almost 700 attendees will get the chance to analyse the multiple aspects of the Mozarabic culture, a population that ¿so they say¿ was persecuted and therefore very much unknown.
The Mozarabs are known for their art and craftsmanship, their miniatures in books or their plasterwork using lighter and more colourful materials than the Arabs. However, in the congress held at the Episcopal Palace of Córdoba, it is highlighted that many aspects of their history, liturgy or literature are virtually unknown. They prayed to the East, placed a veil over the altar, and the number seven was very important to them.
Despite the much-repeated environment of coexistence between the three cultures under Islamic rule, the canon in charge of organising the congress, Antonio Prieto, debunks the myth and reminds us that there were almost 50 martyrs in the 9th century. In remembrance of the faith that brought them together, several Christian liturgies of the era are going to be held, as well as a procession of the relics of the Holy Martyrs of Córdoba.