When You Are in Spain
Alhambra Palace is a Must See!
One of the top tourist destinations in Spain Alhambra Palace is a historic palace-fortress complex situated on a picturesque hilltop in Granada, and should be right on the top of your list of things to do in Spain.
After all, two million visitors a year can’t be wrong!
Why The Alhambra?
Only two hours away from Nerja by car or coach, and travelling through the spectacular mountain scenery, if you are visiting Spain, Alhambra is definitely well worth a day trip inland. So what is so special about it?
Firstly the location is absolutely breathtaking – set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountain range of Spain, Alhambra can be seen for miles around.Translated as “The Red Fortress” in Arabic, due to the colour of its walls, The Alhambra of Granada, one of the best preserved Arabian palaces of its era, is alive with history and romance. It was built during the Nasrid Dynasty, as the residence of the Muslim emirs and their court, and is ornately decorated according to the styles of that period; featuring intricate details such as carved cedar-wood and delicate mosaics. It has inspired poets, writers and artists for centuries, including Washington Irving’s ‘Tales of the Alhambra’, written in 1832. Let’s look at some of the
Alhambra Palace facts ...
Completed in the middle of the fourteenth century, and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, The Alhambra Spain is a classic example of Islamic architecture. Whilst of Moorish origin, the Spain Alhambra has evolved over the years, with other cultures adding their distinct mark, such as the Palace of Carlos V and the church of Santa Maria. After falling into ruin in the eighteenth century, it was rediscovered and restored into the magnificent complex that it is today. Comprising the Alhambra Castle, or citadel (Alcazaba), the Royal Palace, and the Gardens of Generalife, this historic complex is built on top of a wooden hill overlooking the vibrant Andalucían city of Granada. Highlights of your tour are bound to include the beautiful Gardens of Generalife, the stylishly ornate emir’s palace and the Palacio Nazaries. And don’t forget to take in the incredible views from Alcazaba and the Torre de la Vela (Watchtower)!
If you are lucky enough, there are also regular concerts and outdoor events taking place in the tranquil Generalife Gardens, famed for the Patio de la Acequia, a long pool with fountains, surrounded by flowerbeds, Cyprus trees and archways, and which is a perfect example of a Moorish garden. Whether you are looking to find architecture, history, art or botany in Spain, Alhambra has it all and more, just take the time to discover and enjoy.
Plan Ahead!
Make sure you leave your hotel or holiday accommodation early enough to have a full day there, as you don’t want to miss anything. It is highly recommended that you pre-book Alhambra tickets, and make sure you arrive as early as possible. As the gem of Granada tourism, over 7000 visitors visit Spain Alhambra each day in the summer, and entry is limited, so you don’t want to be disappointed! You can take one of the
Alhambra guided tours
to ensure that you make the most of your day. You have a lot to pack into a few hours, so you will appreciate some expert guidance to help you around the vast complex. There are many tourist agencies who offer a one day tour to Alhambra Granada Spain with guaranteed entrance, so for a hassle-free day this is a popular option for many tourists. Evening visits are also available to the Nasrid Palaces.
And While You Are There ...
Whilst there, why not check out the elegant Parador Nacional, a 15th century convent now tastefully converted into one of the Alhambra Spain hotels. You never know, The Alhambra might just seduce you just as it has seduced countless other visitors, with its beautiful hilltop location, its romantic charm, and atmospheric sense of history; and you will need a hotel for your return visit to what has been described as ‘the Jewel of Moorish Spain’! So don’t forget - while in Spain Alhambra palace and fortress is an absolute must!
More Information on The Alhambra
Buying Alhambra Tickets
What to see at the Alhambra Granada Spain
When to Visit the Alhambra Spain
Alhambra Guided Tours or Go It Alone?
The History of the Alhambra Castle
Essential Alhambra Palace Facts
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