Alhambra

The Alhambra

One of the most well known sights in Spain. Many people like to call the Alhambra the 8th wonder of the world. This Muslim fortress sits on top of the mountains above Granada. It was built during the 13th century. Art historians say the Alhambra is the Greatest structure of Nasrid Art the Iberian peninsula has ever created.

The Alhambra is "Red Castle". It was built mostly as a Palace but was continuously added onto. When finally finished in 1391, the Alhambra had six palaces, housed the royal family, high class citizens and even had quarters for the entire garrison of the Muslim ruler!

The Alhambra was built using the same Muslim style as most buildings. Created with white plaster, the walls were easy to carve and create designs. Throughout the palace every room is covered in beautiful carvings and colorful glazed tiles. The Christians later removed some of the flooring and placed expensive marble throughout the building.

The picture is taken from one of the comanders rooms, It overlooks the city of Granada. If you look hard enough you can see the Arabic writing, it's amazing!

A court yard, filled with pools and shrubs... (There are even gold fish in the pool!)

The Nasrid Family started the construction of the Alhambra.

In the past they had difficulty with finding a way to bring water up the mountain. So the Nasrid family discovered a way of using natural water pressure. Fountains were constructed in the courtyards. Even the waterrooms of the private family had "running" water. We are talking the 13th century!

This room called "The Room of the Ambassadors", Is where ambassadors coming to meet the King would first be greeted. The ceiling (which is what you are looking at) is made out of wood. This room is one of the most impressive looking rooms in the Palace.

...oh here is just another little carving on a wall!

The Court yard of the Lions. The Royal family lived around this courtyard. In the center of this courtyard, normaly (it was taken away for construction) are 12 sculptures of lions around a large fountain. It was a gift from the Jewish people to the Arab King. 12 lions for the 12 Jewish tribes.

This picture was taken in one of the many gardens surroundng the Alhambra.

Our tour of the Alhambra lasted three hours. This Palace is huge. There are gardens with fountains like this throughout the entire Palace. It was still a little early in the season so not all the flowers were in bloom.

Overlooking the side of the Alhambra.

In this picture you can see the city of Granada below the mountain. The Alhambra is the large structure on top of the mountain in the distance. Even the archway and garden are considered part of the Palace (the hall in front). It stretches across the top of the mountain.

A local sits under a tree enjoying the sun...