"ALHAMBRA 1" Granada Travelogue by wanderlust23

The courtyards of the Alhambra fortress are really quite breathtaking. Fountains grace many of the inner courtyards while the gardens boast some of the lovliest flower assortments and pools.

Courtyard fountains

This inner courtyard was right below stairs, on either side of which ran streams of water down a handrailing. This area was full of pools, fountains, and hedges lending elegance to the two storied palace behind.

Gardens of Alhambra.

The gardens of the Alhambra are lush and green year round, though during summer the hilltop area on which the entire fortress sits is rather brown with little or no vegetation in some places. However, the gardens are the beautiful oasis on this area, with mazes of hedges, pools of water, fountains, and rows of different colored roses.

Nasrid Palace, Alhambra

The Nasrid Palace is the jewel of Alhambra. Visitors must have designated times in which they may enter the Palace so that the area does not become overcrowded. Once admitted inside, tourists may spend as much time as they would like in these monuments.

In the center of the courtyard is a fountain surrounded by stone animals, while the outer areas of the courtyard and building have slender stone pillars supporting the structure. Carvings and engraved scroll writings are throughout.

Inner courtyard of Nasrid Palace, Alhambra

Another view of the courtyard and fountain as seen from the side of the Palace.

Nasrid Palace

As seen from the back of the courtyard, these slender pillars are seen throughout the Palace.

Ceiling of Alhambra

This ceiling is awe-inspiring with carved out areas in this star shaped area and others in the Palace.

Granada seen through the windows of Alhambra

Veiws of Granada for the hill on which Alhambra sits give visitors the birdseye view of the whitewashed houses and rooftops nesteled against the backdrop of the mountains in the distance.