Spain Recap

Reflections on Our Journey: Building Bridges in Andalusia

Our journey through Andalusia was nothing short of transformative. From the moment we gathered in Seville, a group of Muslim and Jewish women, we embarked on more than just a tour of Spain’s most beautiful cities—we set out on a journey to deepen our connections, challenge our perspectives, and explore the rich, intertwined history of our faiths.

Seville: Where It All Began

In Seville, our group bonded over shared meals, a peaceful river cruise along the Guadalquivir, and the breathtaking sights of the Torre del Oro and the Real Alcázar. We walked through the Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz, pausing to reflect on the long, complex history of the Jewish people in Spain, a theme that would echo throughout our trip. These early days laid the foundation for our conversations about history, faith, and the importance of staying at the table when those conversations become difficult.

Jerez and Cadiz: A Lesson in Interfaith Dialogue

From Seville, we traveled to Jerez de la Frontera, where the intricate Moorish architecture reminded us of the golden age of coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and Christians in Spain. This rich history was a backdrop for our visit to Cadiz, where we experienced a powerful moment of interfaith solidarity.

Cordoba: Walking Through History

Cordoba was a highlight for many. The beauty of the city, with its stunning Mezquita-Cathedral and its narrow, winding streets, made it easy to imagine the flourishing of Islamic and Jewish thought that once took place here. Our tour of the Medina Azzahra was a journey back to the 10th century, when Cordoba was a center of learning and culture. And walking through the Jewish Quarter, where centuries ago our ancestors lived and prayed, was a poignant reminder of both the heights of interfaith cooperation and the painful legacies of expulsion and exile.

Granada: A Culmination of Culture and Reflection

By the time we arrived in Granada, the bonds between us had deepened. Visiting the Alhambra—a masterpiece of Islamic architecture—was a powerful experience, not only for its beauty but for what it symbolized: a time when Muslim, Jewish, and Christian scholars worked together to advance knowledge and culture. As we walked through its halls and gardens, it felt as if we were stepping into that shared history. Our reflections that evening were full of gratitude for the friendships formed and the meaningful conversations had along the way.

Bringing It All Together

Throughout the trip, we paused for moments of reflection—whether in a quiet hotel lobby or over a shared meal. These conversations allowed us to process everything we were experiencing—the beauty of the places we visited, the weight of the history, and the significance of our own journey as Muslim and Jewish women coming together to build bridges in a world that often tries to divide us.

This journey through Andalusia was more than just a tour of remarkable cities and monuments. It was a living experience of the power of dialogue, connection, and understanding. Upon returning home, we carry with us not only memories of the sights we’ve seen, but also a renewed commitment to the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom’s mission of fostering peace, friendship, and solidarity between our communities.