Iberian Peninsula

Definition: The Iberian Peninsula, located in present-day Spain, was a mix of Jews, Christians, and Muslims during the Middle Ages. However, for much of this time period, the Muslims were the ones who had control of the area. During the Umayyad Dynasty, vast expansions were seen from the Muslims. In 711, the Iberian Peninsula endured the beginning of what would be a seven-year conquest by the Muslim forces led by Tariq. A few years later in 732, Charles Martel, also called Charles the Hammer, halted Muslim advances in the Iberian Peninsula with an army of Spanish Christians (“Muslim Spain”).

Importance: As Christian Europe was falling apart, the Muslim control of Europe grew stronger. From 756-1031, Muslim Spain experienced a Golden Age with colleges, literature, and other advances while Christian Europe struggled with daily life and did not have resources for culture. It is interesting to think about the Iberian Peninsula as at being part of the Muslim empire when comparing it to present day Spain (“Muslim Spain”). In fact, this land mass was predominantly a Muslim territory until the Spanish Reconquista.

source: http://lostislamichistory.com/christianity-and-the-muslim-conquest-of-spain/