AL ANDALUS ALHAMBRA: A new Islamic-themed sim, Al-Andalus, described as a caliphate, another exploration of virtual governance, offered a preview visit last week. SL’s Al-Andalus is a close replica of the Alhambra Fortress in Grenada, Spain. Grenada was the last Spanish city to remain in the hands of the Muslim Moors until 1492. It is anticipated the project will be completed in November.

Michel Manen was the initiating force behind this two-sim build. “The reason I chose Al-Andalus as a theme is because Spain, during the Moors, was one of the most diverse and relatively tolerant societies of its time; where tribes from Europe and Northern Africa and even the Middle East shared the same space and where Christians, Jews and Muslims lived, worked and created together,” Manen said. “Al-Andalus, at the time, was the most advanced region in Europe and Africa – culturally, economically, technologically and scientifically. I wanted to use this historical background to rekindle interest in the history of Islam and build around this place a diverse community.”

Al-Andalus is to be self-governing, following in the footsteps of the Confederation of Democratic Simulators and the upcoming Metaverse Republic. Manen added, “It will be built on authentic Islamic law, legal and political principles but integrating principles of dignity, equality, democracy, participation and human rights.”

Al-Andalus is already stirring up controversy, though it has yet to be completed. Last week resident Prokofy Neva (himself a controversial figure) held a discussion to address the possible ‘threat’ of an Islamic caliphate in Second Life. The attitudes of most at Neva's meeting seemed to be curiosity mixed with a little confusion as to what exactly the project is about.