Emma Lira will present and sign her book "La luz de Medina" (The Light of Medina), winner of the 2026 Edhasa Historical Narratives Prize.

• Presented by: Gregorio Muelas, writer and historian
• 📅 Thursday, 17 September
• ⌚ 7 p.m.
• 📍 Ámbito Cultural, El Corte Inglés Colón (6th Floor)

Free admission until full capacity is reached.

About the author

Emma Lira (Madrid, 1971) studied Journalism at the Complutense University of Madrid and began her career at Diario 16, later working as editor-in-chief for several publications.

A writer, archaeology enthusiast and inveterate traveller, she is a consummate storyteller, capable of creating atmospheres and, above all, unforgettable characters.

In 2013 she was a finalist for the Fernando Lara Prize with Tras el agua grande, and has since published Búscame donde nacen los dragos (2013), Lo que esconden las olas (2015), Espejismo, viaje al Oriente desaparecido (2018), Ponte en mi piel (2019), El último árbol del paraíso (2020) and La luna sobre Roma (2024).

THE LIGHT OF MEDINA. Edhasa Historical Narratives Prize 2026

A powerful epic set in 10th‑century Córdoba, The Light of Medina tells the story of Almanzor’s rise to power.

Under the rule of al‑Hakam II, the Caliphate of Córdoba has become the beacon of the West. Medina Azahara, the palatial city, shines as a symbol of power and seduction, and the great caliphal library aspires to gather all the knowledge of the known world.

Two humble young people stand at the heart of this story: Lubna, a Christian‑born scribe who dedicates her life to knowledge, and Abi Amir, a law student who will use talent and strategy to become Almanzor, the Victorious.

A novel of forbidden loves, loyalties, betrayals and destiny. Two absolutely fascinating real historical figures: Almanzor, the great Arab military leader, and Lubna, the librarian of Córdoba. And a historical period as captivating as it is magical.