From iNMSOL, we can’t help but tell you about one of Granada’s main attractions! Granada would not be our Granada without the Alhambra, the main monument that attracts thousands of tourists every day in this charming city.
The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been the symbol of Granada since 1870. That year, it was declared a National Monument.
What is it famous for? The Alhambra was home to the Nasrid sultans. It was a citadel and a fortress. If you come to Spain, you simply cannot miss it.
From any viewpoint in the city, you can see this monumental complex. It is made up of towers, palaces, courtyards and gardens. Its structure is truly unique:
- It has no main façade
- It has no fixed center
- It has no set route, unlike most other historical sites
Over the centuries, the Alhambra has inspired many writers. Not just Spaniards.
The American author Washington Irving wrote “Tales of the Alhambra”. Anyone who wants to travel back in time and feel the magic of this place should read this masterpiece.
The Nasrid Palaces
The Nasrid Palaces are the heart of the Alhambra. The complex has three palaces: the Mexuar, the Comares, and the Palace of the Lions. The last one dates back to the time of Mohamed V.
It is the most popular of the three. Its central courtyard gives it its fame: it is called the Court of the Lions. The name comes from the twelve lion-shaped spouts on the fountain in the center of this magical space.
The Partal
The Partal is a beautiful building from the time of Muhammad III. It is surrounded by gardens and fountains. Today, only a few parts remain. There is a large pond. There is a portico with five arches. And there is the Ladies’ Lookout Tower.
The Palace of Charles V and Its Museums
The Palace of Charles V is completely different in style. It is a magnificent Renaissance building. It sits between the Nasrid Palaces and the Alcazaba. Inside, you will find two museums:
- The Museum of Fine Arts is on the first floor. It has nine rooms. They cover Granada’s art from the fall of the Nasrid kingdom to modern times. Special attention goes to the artist Alonso Cano.
- The Museum of the Alhambra is on the ground floor. It holds a collection of Hispano-Muslim pieces found right here in the complex.
The Alcazaba
The Alcazaba is the oldest part of the whole site. It stands next to the Bermejas Towers. In the 9th century, it was home to the king’s elite army. From here, the city was watched and defended.
The site includes the Quebrada Towers, the Tower of Homage, and the Tower of the Candle. Climb up and enjoy a wonderful view over all of Granada.
The Generalife
At the end of the 13th century, the Generalife was a resting place for the kings of Granada. It was also their summer home.
Beautiful gardens lead you there. They are called the Lower Generalife Gardens. They are full of roses in every color. The site has two buildings. They are linked by the Patio de la Acequia.
This courtyard is the emblem of this area.
Long ago, the Generalife stood outside the main monument. You could only reach it from the Paseo de los Tristes, climbing the Cuesta de los Chinos. Today it is part of the complex. But you can still visit it on its own.
Night Visits
The Alhambra is beautiful at any time. That is why you can also visit it at night. Night tours of the Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife are available. It is a unique and moving experience. It will take you back in time once again.
