Medina Azahara

It was built by the first Caliph, Abd al-Rahman III. It is said that its construction is related to one of the favorite wives of the Caliph named Azahara but the main reasons for its construction is rather because the dignity of the Caliph required the founding of a new city symbol of his power in imitation of other caliphates Oriental and also to show their superiority over their great enemies
  The city was built on three superimposed terraces, corresponding to three parts of the city separated by walls.
  The residence Caliphate ruled the entire area from the upper terrace to the north. The average esplanade housed the administration and the houses of the most important court officials. The bottom was intended for the common people and the soldiers, there mosque, markets, baths and public gardens were.