"Tracing The Footsteps Of The Caliphs In GRANADA!" Granada by Krystynn

Granada Travel Guide: 1,993 reviews and 4,909 photos

The Alhambra illuminated at nightfall - Granada
The Alhambra illuminated at nightfall

As we drove along the winding ridge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and manuveure our way around Andalucia, we soon arrived in the beautiful city of GRANADA in the early afternoon. This city was the last stronghold of the Caliphs (read: Moorish rulers) who eventually surrendered to King Fernando and Queen Isabel in 1492.

Hola! When you mention Granada, the Alhambra inevitably comes to mind, isn't it?

Yes, the beautiful city of Granada is indeed dominated by the Alhambra (a Moorish citadel and palace). Another note-worthy must-see attraction here is definitely the Arab quarters known simply as the Albaicin. As you wander along the narrow alleys and streets, you'd be awestruck by the very strong Moorish (Muslim) influence in the architecture of most buildings here and perhaps, you may just ask yourself why is this so.

The Alhambra in the distance... - Granada

The Alhambra in the distance...

The Moorish army first invaded Granada sometime in the 8th century and gave the city its current name. 'Twas also during this period (sometime in the 1400s, I think) that the rulers of the Nasrid Dynasty began to build the magnificent Alhambra.

Seeking to belie an image of waning power, they constructed their idea of Paradise on Earth (their idea of Paradise copied from the Quran) . Although the Alhambra suffered from decay and pillage, it has undergone extensive restoration works in recent times and this proud landmark still dazzles the eye today.

Inside the sacred grounds of The Alhambra ;-) - Granada

Inside the sacred grounds of The Alhambra ;-)

However, the joy of the Moorish Kings were shortlived. Because shortly after, the Christian Crusaders managed to re-conquer this mineral-rich city (towards the end of the 1400s).

O.K., now that you know a little bit about this city, you have no excuse for not visiting this city! I'll leave you on your own to explore the various tourist attractions - virtually.

Get your cameras ready..... and don't forget to have fun!



'A Traveler is one who travels many miles to have his picture snapped in front of statues!!'
- Max Gralnick, b.1929 (American Writer).



Copyright (c) Krystynn 2003
Please do not take my personal pics without prior permission.
Thanks.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:A beautifully kewl city with a big Moorish influence and culture.
  • Cons:Unless you are anti-Moorish, I really can't think of a negative thing to write about Granada. Yes, it's that beautiful!
  • In a nutshell:Every region of Spain has its own culture... including Granada. This part of Spain boasts of many Moorish architecture & influence. Too good to miss!
  • Last visit to Granada: Oct 1998
  • Intro Updated Dec 29, 2003
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Reviews (24)

The Alhambra's Patio de Arrayanes - Granada The Alhambra's Patio de Arrayanes Things to Do (10)

Here I am at the Inner Courts (Patio de Arrayanes) of the Alhambra. more travel advice

The view from Mirador de San Nicolas = STUNNING! - Granada Stunning Views Of The Alhambra Things to Do (10)

The Alhambra is considered by many of its admirers to be one of the 10 Wonders of the World! And who can blame them for... more travel advice

The Standard Room at Hotel Carmen. Lovely eh? - Granada #1 Hotel Situated Right Across El Corte... Hotels (2)

Hotel Carmen here in Granada is really an excellent 4-star hotel situated right in the heart of Granada's city center.... more travel advice

Me at the Albaicin - Granada One Of My Favorite Places In Granada Things to Do (10)

The Albaicin. Situated right at the foot of the Alhambra is the Arab Quarters of the Albaicin. When the Christian... more travel advice

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