The Caliphate of Córdoba was a Muslim state in the Iberian Peninsula that existed from 929 to 1031. It emerged from the earlier Umayyad Emirate of Córdoba and became a center of culture, science, and political power in medieval Europe. The caliphate was known for its architectural achievements, including the famous Great Mosque of Córdoba, and for fostering advancements in various fields such as philosophy, medicine, and mathematics. At its height, the Caliphate of Córdoba controlled much of present-day Spain and parts of Portugal. It was characterized by a diverse population, including Muslims, Christians, and Jews, who contributed to a rich cultural exchange. The caliphate eventually fragmented into smaller kingdoms, known as taifas, leading to its decline.