'Alhambra comes from Arabic and means 'Red'. The oldest part of the Alhambra is the Alcazaba and refers to the original citadel, functioning independently of the rest of the lower city. The architecture is relatively crude, consisting of a tall tower, an inner medina - of which only the foundations remain- and hammams. This first nucleus seems to have been built on the ruins of a fort, probably built by the first emirs of the Zirid Berber dynasty. The construction of this ensemble is attributed to Mohammed ben Nazar, founder of the Nasrid dynasty, who entered Granada in 1238. His son, Mohammed II, and his descendants pursued the enterprise. Over the centuries, the Alhambra has been enriched by thirty defense towers and rich palaces built by the Moorish rulers who made the Alhambra the capital of the kingdom of Granada. The Nasrid style reached its peak in the 14th century. The Alhambra is a rare example of Arab-Andalusian art and civilization in Spain.
The Alhambra is a rare example of Arab-Andalusian art and civilization in Spain. The Alhambra architectural and artistic jewel The Nasrid palaces is organized in three groups, integrated into the fortress and interconnected by vestibules and courtyards. Here are the three components of the art of Islam: calligraphy, arabic calligraphy, floral and geometric motifs.
The most remarkable monuments are:
- Mexuar: The oldest part with the courtyard and the Machuda tower, named after the architect of Charles V who occupied the tower during the construction of the eponymous palace.
- The Palace of Comares: Famous for its imposing crenellated tower, the Throne Room (or Ambassadors) and the patio of Arrayanes where the Myrtle Court is located.
- The Palace of Lions: This is where the most refined and elaborate arches are. With its gallery of 124 white marble columns, it opens onto an interior patio, the Lions courtyard, consisting of a magnificent central alabaster basin. It is supported by twelve lions symbolizing power and courage.
After the visit to the palaces, the gardens of the Partal, made of pergolas and successive levels, are located at the end of the Nasrid palaces, and offer a panoramic view of the district of Albayzín, whose physiognomy has changed little since the Moorish era.
The Generalife, outside the enclosure, was the summer palace of the Nasrid dynasty. Here they came to appreciate the shade of the gardens and the pools fed in abundance by the waters of the mountains of Sierra Nevada.
On the site you can find an overview of the Alhambra tickets and prices. It provides detailed information of the different ticket options which are available for your visit of the Alhambra.
