Islamic site of Medina-Siyâsa

 

The uninhabited or Islamic site of Medina Siyâsa in Cieza is, without a doubt, one of the most interesting archaeological sites of Western Islam and Islamic decoration in Europe, serving as an essential source of research and knowledge of the Islamic world. Located on the southern slope of Cerro del Castillo, overlooking the course of the upper plain of the Segura River, this important Islamic city developed. The remains of a high-altitude Muslim rural settlement have been found, defended by a surrounding wall and a citadel that strategically dominates the area, controlling the farmsteads scattered around the irrigated lands.

Since its discovery and excavation, this site has become an essential reference for the study of the Hispano-Muslim and daily life in Al-Andalus.

VIDEO OF MEDINA SIYASA, ALMADENES CANYON AND SERRETA CAVE:

The excavated remains bear witness to a flourishing past that reached its peak in the 12th and 13th centuries. Dating back to the 11th century as a small rural settlement, Siyâsa grew into a highly important town, achieving extensive urban development and a vast area that housed more than 750 houses for a population of around 4,000. Siyâsa's streets were narrow and irregular, with no urban planning rules. The dwellings had two levels: the upper level for bedrooms and the lower level for the kitchen, where food was prepared, and the winter and summer lounges. The epicenter of the house was the central courtyard, onto which all the rooms opened.

VIDEO MADE BY DRONE OF THE CIEZA CASTLE, UPPER PART OF THE SITE:

 

Of the entire Siyâsa area, only one neighborhood of 19 houses has been excavated, preserving a complex urban layout of main streets and ramparts. The rich architectural collection from the exhumed houses is one of the most innovative and interesting aspects of the complex. Many of the artifacts, especially ceramics, glass, and plaster, can be admired in the Siyâsa Museum in Cieza.