Abd al-Rahman III, Emir and Caliph of Cordova

 

Abd al-Rahman III was an Umayyad ruler who governed as Cordoba's Emir from 912 to 929 CE before succeeding as the city's Caliph from 929 to 961 CE. In addition, he founded a single Islamic empire in Spain, expanded his dominion with Cordoba as the capital, and built the magnificent caliphal palace at Madinat al-Zahra.

Religious tolerance was a hallmark of his leadership over Al-Andalus. Christians, Muslims, and Jews coexist peacefully. Non-Muslims were given equitable treatment and appointed to some of the top positions in the Umayyad Administration. A Jew from Jaen named Hasdai ibn Shaprut served as Abd al-Rahman's secretary and physician.

Madinat al-Zahra: An inside view 

In his later years, Abd al-Rahman reportedly acquired a male harem. Eastern European slaves called Saqaliba were supposedly in his harem or servants. Over 3,000 slaves served Abd al-Rahman as elite guards and harem guards. During Abd al-Rahman III's reign, Cordoba's public revenue increased. After he died in 961, the state existed until 1031.

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