Here's a breakdown:
* The Islamic Conquest: In 711, Muslim armies from North Africa crossed the Strait of Gibraltar and conquered most of the Iberian Peninsula. This period is known as Al-Andalus, meaning "the land of the Vandals" in Arabic.
* Cultural Influence: The Moors brought with them their language, culture, and architectural styles. This influence was particularly strong in southern Spain, where they established numerous cities and towns.
* Place Names: As they built settlements and developed their own administration, the Moors named many locations after Arabic words or phrases. This practice continued even after the Christian Reconquista (reconquest) gradually pushed back the Moorish control.
Examples of Arabic place names in southern Spain:
* Alhambra (Granada): "The Red One," referring to the color of the palace's brick walls.
* Córdoba: Likely derived from the Arabic word "Qurtubah," meaning "the bridge."
* Málaga: Possibly from the Arabic "Malaga," meaning "salt."
* Sevilla: From the Arabic "Ishbiliya," meaning "the city of the arrows."
The persistence of these Arabic place names is a testament to the profound impact of the Moorish civilization on Spain, enriching its history, culture, and language.