In the fall of 2024, three Muslim men from Spain—Abdelkader Harksi, Abdallah Hernandez, and Tariq Rodriguez—embarked on a remarkable 8,000-kilometer journey to Mecca for Hajj, riding horses. This endeavor aims to revive a long-lost Andalusian Muslim tradition that has been absent for over 500 years. Harksi, an imam and horse enthusiast, leads the group, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual heritage of Muslims in Andalusia.
Starting from Almonaster La Real in Andalusia, the trio traveled through multiple countries, including France, Italy, and Turkey, using the durable and swift Arabic Horse Asil. Their journey is not only a pilgrimage but also a tribute to the historical land routes taken by Andalusian Muslims before their expulsion in the 15th century. Harksi hopes to inspire younger generations to appreciate the rich history of Islam in Europe.
Supported by various Muslim communities along their route, the group documented their experiences on social media and through crowdfunding. Upon reaching Istanbul, they received a warm welcome from the University of Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim, where they engaged with students and supporters, sharing the significance of their journey.
