| Page Views: 4,700 Last Visit to Granada: October, 1998 | Tracing The Footsteps Of The Caliphs In GRANADA! by Krystynn - last update: Dec 29, 2003 |
| 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... |
|  | 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. |
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. | | | Inside the sacred grounds of The Alhambra ;-) |
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> Add to your Custom Travel Guide [What's This?]
| 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!" |
Krystynn's Granada Travel Tips
 Comments for Krystynn about Granada | | | | |
fool_moon Fri Dec 26, 2003 08:35 UTC
I visited granada 2 months ago. Your beautiful pics bring back the memory ! | tpangelinan Thu Jul 31, 2003 15:02 UTC
Wonderful page!Beautiful photos & very helpful tips! :-) | coollikethat Mon Apr 7, 2003 16:13 UTC
Your pics and descriptions have captured the beauty of the Alhambra wonderfully! Granada has a great southern Spanish flair that highlights the Moorish dynasty and their well-preserved influences. | wispofcloud Mon Aug 5, 2002 21:48 UTC
full of detail, as usual! Great work! |
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