The city of Valencia, called Balansiyya when…

The city of Valencia, called Balansiyya when Islamic culture settled in the region, has prospered from the tenth century, due to a booming trade in paper, silk, leather, ceramics, glass and silver-work.

After the death of Almanzor in 1002 and the ensuing unrest, Muslim Al-Andalus has disintegrated into numerous small states known as taifas, one of which is the Taifa of Valencia, in and around the town, which experiences a rebirth of sorts.

The town has grown, and during the reign of Abd al-Aziz (1021-1016) a new city wall will be built, remains of which are preserved throughout the Old City (Ciutat Vella) today.