The castral territory of the Balearic Islands: The evolution of territorial control in Mallorca during the middle ages

Martin Gofriller*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book or Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

As part of an ongoing research project into the fortifications of the Balearic Islands, it is becoming clear that castral space of medieval Mallorca was a highly dynamic space, the fabric of which was in a near constant state of flux, relative to the strength of the island's central government. The juxtaposition of a 'cosmopolitan' urban centre and an agrarian, practically mono-cultural, hinterland created a situation of constant tension in which fortifications played a central role. During the Islamic period the castles of the Balearics protected against foreign attackers as well as from central control, and it the study of is this duality of purpose which allows us to further our understanding of Andalusian society and how it was integrated into the feudal system of its Christian conquerors.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationChateau et Representations
PublisherCentre de Recherches Archeologiques et Historiques Medievales (CRAHM)
Pages109-113
Number of pages5
ISBN (Print)9782902685776
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameChateau Gaillard
Volume24
ISSN (Print)0577-5752

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