THE ANDALUSIAN CIVILIZATIONAL MODEL: A CONTEMPORARY BRIDGE BETWEEN MOROCCO AND SPAIN

Author: Mikael Miloudi Nachit

ABSTRACT

This article examines the Andalusian coexistence model (convivencia) as a contemporary framework for countering cultural exclusion and building durable relations between Morocco and Spain through cultural diplomacy and joint academic research. It argues that al-Andalus’s historical legacy—characterized by the peaceful coexistence of Moroccan, Amazigh, and Iberian populations—provides a compelling model for addressing contemporary challenges of immigration, cultural alienation, and regional polarization. The article further explores how the philosophical heritage of Averroes, Maimonides, and Spinoza constitutes a shared intellectual lineage spanning from Córdoba to Marrakech, with Averroes emerging as the foundational thinker of the separation of religion from political governance—a principle with deep resonance in Amazigh customary traditions. Drawing on recent academic research, institutional initiatives, and cultural diplomacy efforts, this article demonstrates that the Morocco-Spain partnership possesses a human depth that transcends political narratives and establishes foundations for sustainable coexistence and joint regional problem-solving.

Keywords: Andalusian coexistence, convivencia, Morocco-Spain relations, Averroes, Amazigh heritage, cultural diplomacy, intercultural regionalism, Canary Islands.

REFERENCES

  1. Calderwood, E. (2018). Colonial al-Andalus: Spain and the Making of Modern Moroccan Culture. Harvard University Press.
  2. Conversi, D., & Machin-Autenrieth, M. (2020). “The Musical Bridge—Intercultural Regionalism and the Immigration Challenge in Contemporary Andalusia.” Genealogy, 4(1), 5.
  3. Machin-Autenrieth, M. (2021). “The Notes that Bathe the Mediterranean: Spanish Flamencos and Moroccan Musicians in Creative Convivencia.” edu.
  4. Martínez Lorca, A. (2014). Averroes y la filosofía. Editorial Biblioteca Nueva.
  5. Rodríguez-Varela, R., et al. (2017). “Genomic Analyses of Pre-European Conquest Human Remains from the Canary Islands Reveal Close Affinity to Modern North Africans.” Current Biology, 27(21), 3396-3402.e5.
  6. Reyes García, I. (2003). “Insulismos amazighes en el español de Canarias.” Revista de Filología, 21, 295-307.
  7. Spanish Embassy in Morocco. (2026). Annual Program of Spanish Cultural Activities in Morocco.
  8. University of Córdoba & Embassy of Morocco in Spain. (2025). “Fatima al-Fihriya” Chair on Spanish-Moroccan Relations.
  9. Doctor Leïla Mezian Foundation. (2025-2026). Amazigh Space, Alhambra, Granada.
  10. Moroccan Constitution (2011). Article 5: Recognition of Tamazight as an official language.
  11. Moroccan-Spanish High-Level Meeting. (2025). Cooperation Agreements.
  12. UM6P & Canary Islands Universities. (2025). Research and Innovation Pact.
  13. UEMF & Cervantes Institute. (2026). Academic and Cultural Partnership.
  14. Aula Mediterrània. (2025). Moroccan Edition.
  15. Assid, A. (2020). Amazighité et modernité. IRCAM Editions.
  16. Strauss, L. (1952). Persecution and the Art of Writing. University of Chicago Press.