Cultivating the land
Water revival
One of our main challenges here is water, especially during the summer where temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius. We irrigate the land through the acequia water – a system established by Andalusian Muslims which is still used in the region today. On the Azahara grounds, this system is still intact, but in desperate need to repair and improvement.
The acequia system channels water from the reservoirs (supplied by rain and snow) down the mountain to all the local farms. Without proper piping and storage, we get a lot of water loss. With an improved system and storage solutions, wasted water could be preserved for the summer months, when it is needed most.
Your donations could support the work we’re doing to upgrade our irrigation system by contributing to the cost of:
• Building rainwater storage to retain water for when it’s scarce.
• Renovating our acequia water storage ponds to retain mountain water.
• Renewing our water distribution pipes so water gets to where it needs to and isn’t wasted.
Protecting biodiversity
Preserving the biodiversity of Andalusia is key but challenging in an increasingly changing environment. Stewardship of the earth is core to Azahara. We are working on several initiatives to serve the land and preserve biodiversity.
This region is home to unique ecosystems and a rich array of wildlife, flora and fauna, but has seen alarming changes that highlight the urgency of conservation efforts. Nearly 36% of its natural habitats are currently at risk, while over 30% of the region's species face the threat of extinction. At Azahara we are reviving traditional methods of cultivation, without using harmful chemicals or pesticides.
Your donations could support our work to cultivate biodiverse ecosystems by contributing to the cost of planting and maintaining:
• Our forest garden - which is supporting the ecosystem, combining trees, shrubs, herbs, and ground cover plants to create a self-sustaining habitat.
• Our Sadaqah Trees - which is a popular way for our friends and supporters to lead a Sadaqah Jariyah legacy for themselves and loved ones. €55 can plant a Jasmine tree.
• Our walkways – planted with medicinal herbs like lavender and rosemary are adorned with poetry, nurturing deeper connection and healing for people, animals and land.
Ladies’ Garden
Today, women only spaces are difficult to come by. And yet, outdoor areas for only women and children, offering both comfort and privacy and access to nature are absolutely vital in a time of isolation and device addiction. Our ladies' garden at Azahara is a place of contemplation and relaxation, where women of all age groups come to connect and support each other.
This Andalusian-inspired Garden is now in bloom with borders of lavender and roses, a palm tree from Madina, and shaded areas to be draped with jasmine. It also features a quadrant with aromatic plants and enables direct access to the women’s entrance of the summer mosque.
Courtyards and private spaces are essential for women to reconnect with nature, and our garden embodies this necessity. In these tranquil surroundings, women are reviving the practice of tafakkur (contemplation), encouraging deep reflection and a return to connectedness.
Your donations could help us complete the garden and maintain it so that it continues to serve the community. Here is some of the work we’re currently undertaking:
• Renovating the ablution (wudhu) area.
• Developing a tiled platform to create additional seating space.
• Building a simple outdoor kitchen and two compost toilets.
• Building wooden cladded doorways to ensure privacy.
