Granada's Landmark: La Alhambra

Alhambra is, safe to say, Granada’s landmark. Millions of people come to these grounds to visit, enjoy the scenery, learn the history, and be a part of Spanish culture. The beginning of the Alhambra began in 1237 when Muhammad I al Ahmar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty, constructed his court on the Sabika Hill.  The Alhambra has four parts, each significant with different histories.

The first part of the Alhambra that we visited was called Generalife. This area, full of gardens and fountains and the Palace of the Generalife, was constructed in 1302 to be the recreation and vacation area of the Nasrid Emirs (Muslim Kings) and then later under the Catholic rule, the Kings of Granada, where they could escape from their daily routines.

The second part of the Alhambra we visited didn’t really have an official title, but it seemed to be the city center of the Alhambra. The main street had many little souvenir shops that were at one point or another houses for soldiers and workers, water tower buildings and lead up to two bigger buildings: the church of Santa Maria de la Alhambra and the Palacio de Carlos V as well as a large plaza overlooking part of the city.

Palacio de Carlos V: Carlos V is one of the most important figures in Spain’s history. Son of the Reyes Catolicos, Isabel and Fernando, Carlos V also known as Carlos I in Germany, took the throne to Spain and took titles to emperor of Germany (through family territories). This palace was designed by Carlos V himself, and where he spent most of his life reigning over the Spanish. Notice the differences in this building compared to the Nasrid Palaces down below-the difference of cultures and influences of architecture within later years.

The third stop was the Nasrid Palaces, three in one all constructed at different times under different rulers.

The first palace, Mexuar Palace, was attributed in construction by Ismail I (1314-1325) and was most likely used for dispensing justice and holding business meetings.

Comares Palace and its construction is attributed to Yusurf I, the seventh Nasrid ruler, (1333-1354). The Comares Palace holds the most beautiful rooms with brightly colored tiles and detailed carvings. Notice lots of blues, greens, and yellows! In addition, it was most likely the living quarters for the Moorish rulers as well as rooms to celebrate and practice their religion.

The Golden Room and Façade of Comares

Muhammad V built this in 1370 in commemoration for the conquest of Algeciras.

The Courts of Myrtles. Probably the most known site of Alhambra.

The Chamber of Ambassadors. This room is filled top to bottom with detailed carvings
in Arabic writing of their holy texts emphasizing the divine power.

The third palace in the Nasrid Palaces is the Palace of the lions, most known for its Court of lions. Muhammad V (1362-1391) during his second mandate is accredited for this palace’s construction. Unfortunately for this visit, there was renovation in this infamous court. However, the lion fountain was in clear view. The lions signifies finest styles and Muhammad reaching the pinnacle in his second mandate.

Also in the Palace of the Lions is the Hall of Abencerrages. Notice again all the detailed carvings!

 When Granada was conquered in 1492 by the Reyes Catolicos (Isabel and Fernando), the Nasrid palaces were taken over by catholic rulers, renovated and added onto to accommodate for their needs. The court of the Lindaraja connects the Palace of Lions with the Emperor’s Chambers built after the conquest.

The fourth and final spot in the Alhambra is the Alcazaba. It’s very clear to see that it served as a military function.

With many towers and corridors as well as a plaza that held weaponry, the Alcazaba holds the best views in the entire Alhambra. On top of the Torre de la Vela (watch tower) I could see the entire city. I felt like I was on top of the world! I feel like in every post I say this but I feel so SO blessed to have this opportunity. And being here, overlooking the city, I have to keep reminding myself that this is reality! By far, the Alhambra tour is one of my favorites and something I will never forget!!