History
Almohad Caliphate: An Empire of Faith and Power
Discover the Almohad Caliphate, the powerful Berber Muslim empire that dominated North Africa and Spain (Al-Andalus) in the 12th and 13th centuries.
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What is it?
The Almohad Caliphate was a Berber Muslim empire that emerged in the 12th century, eventually controlling a vast territory across North Africa (the Maghreb) and the southern half of the Iberian Peninsula (Al-Andalus). The movement was founded by Ibn Tumart, a religious reformer from the Masmuda Berber tribes, who preached a strict adherence to the unity of God (tawhid). His followers became known as al-Muwaḥḥidūn, or "the Almohads," meaning "those who profess the unity of God." After Ibn Tumart's death, his successor, Abd al-Mu'min, led the military campaigns that overthrew the preceding Almoravid dynasty and established the Caliphate, with Marrakesh as its capital.
Why is it trending?
The Almohad Caliphate is a subject of recurring historical interest due to its significant impact on the development of both North Africa and Spain. The era is noted for its major cultural and intellectual contributions, supporting renowned philosophers like Ibn Rushd (Averroes). Furthermore, its architectural legacy is profound and visible today in iconic structures such as the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh and the Giralda in Seville. The story of their rise from a mountain reformist movement to a formidable Mediterranean empire, and their eventual decline after the pivotal Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, remains a compelling chapter in world history.
How does it affect people?
The Almohad legacy continues to influence the cultural and political landscape of modern Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Their emphasis on centralized government, intertwined with religious legitimacy, set a precedent for governance in the region. Initially, their rule was marked by religious intolerance, forcing many Christians and Jews to convert or flee. However, their reign also fostered a unique blend of Arabic, Berber, and Iberian cultures. Descendants of the Berber tribes that formed the Caliphate still reside in North Africa, and the Almohads' architectural and artistic achievements remain major cultural landmarks and tourist attractions.