The Alhambra is a "World Heritage Site" since 1984 (UNESCO) and considered "one of the most important architectural structures of the Middle Ages and the finest example of Islamic art left to us in the Western world".
Chris and I were blown away - Granada, in south eastern Spain, was the last stop of our tour through Spain, Portugal and Morocco, before returning to Madrid and end of the tour.
Granada's Alhambra did not disappoint, here was another highlight! Set high on a hill above present day Granada, this walled Royal city had its beginnings in the late 800s when a Muslim fortress, the Alcazaba, was constructed here. Then followed three centuries of further construction through to the end of Muslim rule in Granada and the advent of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella. The result is a magnificent citadel of some 13 hectares, enclosed by over 2 km of walls and towers and containing three Palaces (Muslim Masrid dynasty) all built in 14th century. There is also the palace built in the 16th century by Charles V (of German Reformation fame!) as his honeymoon palace - but never used!
There are also stunningly beautiful and simple gardens with very sophisticated water channels and fountains throughout - all gravity fed! It is worth googling! We bought a reference book.
Many have come over the centuries to marvel and rest in this place...Sultans, Kings and Queens, Emperors as well as poets, artists, architects and authors. Escher, the Dutch artist, was inspired by the tiling of the Alhambra. The American author, Washington Irving, wrote the "Tales of the Alhambra" while staying here. This popular novel was influential in introducing Alhambra to the wider world and eventually the extensive restoration work and the World Heritage Site recognition. Enjoy the visual images!!
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