Trapezoidal Space

Further down and south of the “higher houses“, we find the so-called Trapezoidal Space, which was conceived with that shape by its builders to solve the differences in orientation between the houses of the higher part and the rest of the fortress of Medina Azahara. Due to its position and location, it became a hub of internal communications in the fortress and a passing control for the upcoming big residences.

In this space they originally built a road to enter the western part of the fortress, whose pavement we partly preserve. However, it soon suffered a considerable remodeling, as it was divided in two parts: western and eastern.

The western half was occupied by a house, with an access door in curve, connecting to the rooms in the higher ensemble through a great stairway, of which there are only three steps and the stairwell preserved. A kitchen oven found in the house makes us think that it was used to provide part of the palace guards with food.

On the other side, the eastern half of the old road confirms the strategic function of the Trapezoidal Space, mentioned earlier, as a hub of communications. Its use by the palace guards is undeniable. Finally, we should mention that this part of the Trapezoidal Space experienced a great remodeling, which contributed to a more extended use for the space: a higher floor was elevated, to which one could access through a small stairway located on the northwestern side, supported by pillars(which were not present in the original plan). An early remodeling work altered its organization, and a house was set up in the western half, whereas the eastern one consolidated its function as the place where they controlled the access to the houses in the block located in the south.

If you wish to know the Trapezoidal Space of Medina Azahara, do not hesitate to hire one of our guided tours. We are experts in the interpretation of the historic heritage from Córdoba. If you have chosen to do sightseeing in Córdoba, choose a high quality option, choose ArtenCórdoba.

Text: Jesús Pijuán.