Overview: Join British historian Bettany Hughes as she examines a long-buried chapter of European history--the rise and fall of Islamic culture in what is now Spain and Portugal. Although generations of Spanish rulers have tried to expunge this era from the historical record, recent archaeology and scholarship now shed fresh light on the Moors who flourished in Al-Andalus for more than 700 years.

DVD Verdict: This fascinating two-part documentary explodes old stereotypes and offers shocking new insights at every give turn! You’ll discover the ingenious mathematics behind Granada’s dazzling Alhambra Palace, trace El Cid’s lineage to his Moorish roots, and learn how the Iberian population willingly converted to Islam in droves.

Indeed, such brilliant work was long overdue. At last true history revealed to a western world mislead by decades of facts distortion and misinformation portrayed by a dangerous agenda serving to encourage hatred which divulge our failure to recognize what other religions and cultures have achieved.

This is not about jews, christian, muslims or any other religion for that matter. this work is about restoring historical facts that have been hidden from the general public for way too long.

Through interviews with noted scholars, you’ll see how Moorish advances in mathematics, astronomy, art, and agriculture helped propel the West out of the Dark Ages and into the Renaissance. What emerges is a richly detailed portrait of a sensuous, inquisitive, and remarkably progressive Islamic culture in Christian Europe.

But let’s face it, this type of documentary (presented in a brisk two-part, 101 minute format) will not be of interest to everyone. For those who enjoy history, and have a particular liking for the cultural and religious achievement, this program is a sound and worthwhile investment.

Some of the architecture, in particular, is breathtaking. One segment, showing a place of worship built in the style of a mosque, yet filled with Christian symbolism, is especially revelatory. Perhaps there is hope for this troubled world after all. This is a Full Screen Presentation (1.66:1) enhanced for 16x9 TVs, but does not come with any Special Features.