Alhambra Palace in Granada
Alhambra is one of the oldest palace complexes in Spain. It represents a supreme architectural achievement of the Moorish culture and style. The Castle Alhambra is located in the city of Granada, which is locked in by three relatively low hills and around them rises the Sierra Nevada mountains. This is south of the country and the area is Andalusia.
The Alhambra palace is located just above the town, which is one of the most common tourist destinations in Spain. Alhambra in name literally translates from Arabic "red fortress". It dates from the year 1238, but at this time the Iberian Peninsula ended centuries of Christians fighting for the Spanish Conquest of land from Arabs, known in history as the Reconquest. Here, the ruler of Granada found something like eternal peace and harmony.
Different parts of the Alhambra castle were built during different centuries, but most of which are preserved today, date from and after the 14th century. The main entrance door is today the Door of Justice, which rises above the Tower of Justice. It was built by Yusuf I in 1348, as evidenced by the inscriptions on the walls.
The big horseshoe arch is one of the main building blocks of the tower. The irregular quadrilateral is made up from hand carved marble. According to some researchers, its use is associated with local superstitions, to protect the fortress from the bad spirits and evil eyes.
Although Islam prohibits the depiction of human and animal figures, the complex is richly decorated with geometric elements, floral motifs and classical Arabic calligraphy. The facade of the tower has a recess, into which a statue of the Virgin Mary with the infant is placed. With its 45 meters the tower is the highest in the Alhambra. The entire interior space is occupied by the Throne Hall, also called, Hall of Ambassadors.
Just opposite the entrance of this magnificent hall was situated once the throne the ruler of Granada. Throughout the palace can be seen fountains and pools. In the so called Martyrs Yard is located a unique model pool, which is a typical example of Moorish architecture. All around there are beautiful columns and arches.
You should know that daily visits to the Alhambra are limited in number. The number of entrance tickets is llimited and therefore it is better to book in advance.
