Maritime and Related Matters in Andalusia, since the Beginning of Islam until the End of the Umayyad Period in Andalusia (422-492 AH)

The geographical location of Andalusia and the fact that it was surrounded by the sea in three directions, led the Muslims to build several ports and harbors around it. In the early years of the Muslim conquest of Andalusia and the beginning of the Umayyad rule, navigation and navy were not important, as Muslim rulers were engaged in establishing government and suppressing internal uprisings and land battles. From the time of Abd al-Rahman al-Awsat (206-238 AH), and after the Norman invasions of the coast of Andalusia in 229 (AH), the Umayyads paid special attention to the construction of the military fleet. In fact, the beginning of the establishment and attention to navigation in Andalusia should be considered from this time. From then on, the Umayyad emirs made great efforts to strengthen the navy and used the navy extensively to counter the Normans and limit the Fatimid influence. This attention to maritime affairs led to the construction of numerous garrisons and fortifications in Andalusia, and the position of Amir al-Bahr enjoyed a high status. Al-Mariyah became the most important military port, and shipyards were built in a number of ports.