Building Archaeology of the Alcazaba of Guadix (Granada, Spain): An Example of Implanting Power in the Urban Centres of Al-Andalus

Abstract

The Alcazaba of Guadix (Granada, Spain) is an Andalusi urban fortress that underwent many transformations since the outset of its construction in the 11th century. It was analysed through the method of Building Archaeology, that is, by means of a combination of stratigraphic analyses and the characterisation of its constructive techniques. Each analysis is based on a three-dimensional photogrammetric map of the entire feature. The study also relied on the findings of a series of archaeological excavations to offer a vision of the changes its structures underwent over time in parallel with an increase of its importance by the succession of powers. The Alcazaba of Guadix is a remarkable example of the implantation of Andalusi power and its architectural expression in medium-sized cities following the reign of the Caliphate of Cordoba.