Trapezoidal Space
Below and to the south of the “upper residences“, lies the so-called Trapezoidal Space, which was conceived by its builders in this shape to resolve the differences in orientation between the residences on the upper tier and the rest of the Medina Azahara palace complex. Due to its position and location, it became a hub of internal communication within the palace and a control point for access to the large residences that follow.
Origin and Initial Configuration
Originally, a road was built in this space to access the western sector of the palace, of which some pavement remains still exist. However, it soon underwent a major renovation, dividing the road into two parts: western and eastern.
The Western Half
The western half was occupied by a residence, with an angled entrance door, which connects to the upper complex’s rooms through a large staircase, of which only three steps and the open stairwell remain today. The discovery of a kitchen oven in the house suggests that it was used to supply food to part of the palace guard.
The Eastern Half and Its Strategic Function
Meanwhile, the eastern half of the former road confirms the previously mentioned strategic function of the Trapezoidal Space as a communication hub. Its use by the palace guard seems indisputable.
Finally, it is worth mentioning that this part of the Trapezoidal Space underwent a significant renovation, which contributed to a greater utilization of the area: an upper floor was built, accessed via a small staircase located at the northeastern end, and supported by pillars (which were not part of the original plan). An early remodeling disrupted its layout, creating a residence in the western half, while the eastern half solidified its role as the control point for access to the residences in the block located to the south.
Visit the Trapezoidal Space
If you wish to explore the Trapezoidal Space of Medina Azahara, do not hesitate to book our guided tours. We are experts in the interpretation of Córdoba’s historical heritage. If you have chosen to do tourism in Córdoba, choose a quality option—choose ArtenCórdoba.
Text: Jesús Pijuán.
The Trapezoidal Space is an area located south of the upper residences of the Medina Azahara alcázar, designed in that shape to resolve orientation differences and facilitate internal communications of the palace complex.
It was originally built as a pathway that allowed access to the western sector of the alcázar, of which remnants of the original pavement are still preserved.
The western half was remodeled to accommodate a residence with a staggered entrance, connected to the upper rooms by a large staircase, which housed a kitchen oven, suggesting its use by the palace guard.
The eastern half consolidated its strategic function as a communication hub and access control area to the large residences of the alcázar, being used by the palace guard.
A significant reform added an upper floor over the eastern half, supported by pillars and accessible via a staircase at the northeastern end, which increased the functionality and use of the space.
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