Screening of the Film “The Builders of the Alhambra” in Kirchberg (Gallery)

On Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Kinepolis Kirchberg (Hall 9), a screening took place of the docu-fiction film “The Builders of the Alhambra” (“Los constructores de la Alhambra”, original version with French subtitles), as part of the “The Art of Islam” program organized by the Shoura – Assembly of the Muslim Community of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Before the start of the screening, Jean-Luc (Anouar) Karleskind, the initiator of the project, addressed the audience. In his welcome remarks, he explained that the idea was born at the end of 2023, following a television feature about the film. He emphasized that the purpose was not only to watch a work of art but also to reflect on Islam’s contribution to contemporary society—through art, architecture, calligraphy, and the “art of living.”

He presented a six-part framework for the program: on November 8, a one-day excursion to medieval sites from the era of the Alhambra (registration via the Shoura website, under the “Events” section), followed by reading evenings and a seminar on the history of al-Andalus, culminating in a study trip to Granada with a visit to the Alhambra. He thanked the Shoura for its organization and support.

Afterwards, Jasmin Jahić, President of the Shoura, greeted the audience. He highlighted the importance of such cultural evenings for the entire community, expressed gratitude to the project initiator for his idea, and thanked all participants for their presence and support.

Finally, just before the screening, the Head of Worship (Mufti), Hafiz Hilmija Redžić, stated:

“Islam elevated human civilization to a level it had never reached before. The traces of Islam within world civilization still shine in full strength—even in places where Muslims are now few, such as Córdoba and Granada. These traces inspire us to leave, here and with future generations, new indelible imprints of our culture and civilization. May Allah grant you all goodness.”

About the film and discussion with the audience

Through the writings and persona of Lisān al-Dīn Ibn al-Khatīb, the film immerses viewers in Nasrid Granada of the 14th century. It portrays the political upheavals of al-Andalus and the craftsmanship behind the construction of the Alhambra—stone and woodwork, stucco and ceramics, geometry and symbolic ornamentation, as well as the hydraulic engineering of its courtyards and fountains. The Alhambra emerges as a place where poetry, science, and craftsmanship merge into a unique artistic expression.

After the screening, an engaging discussion took place on the legacy of Islamic art in European culture and the next steps in the program.