Top 10 Sights at the Alhambra Castle – Granada, Spain

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The Alhambra Fortress/Castle in Granada, Spain is a breathtakingly beautiful and historic site that is a must-see for any visitor to the region. Located on the outskirts of the city, the Alhambra is a series of palaces, fortresses, and gardens that were built by the Nasrid dynasty, the last Muslim rulers of Spain. Here are the top 10 things to see at the Alhambra:

1. The Fountains: The Alhambra is home to several stunning fountains, including the Court of Lions, which features a central fountain surrounded by 12 stone lions. The fountains are a beautiful sight to behold, with their intricate designs and sparkling water.

2. The Calligraphy: The Alhambra is famous for its intricate calligraphy, which can be found throughout the complex. The calligraphy is a beautiful blend of Arabic and Spanish styles and is a testament to the cultural exchange that took place at the Alhambra.

3. The Carvings: The Alhambra is also home to a number of intricate carvings, including the famous geometrical patterns that adorn the walls and ceilings of the palaces. These carvings are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Nasrid dynasty.

4. The Doorways: The Alhambra is home to several beautiful examples of stunning architectural ingenuity. Throughout the fortress, you’ll see beautiful horseshoe arches, a clear mark of the influenced architecture.

5. The View: The Alhambra sits atop a hill overlooking the city of Granada, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. From the top of the Alhambra, you can see the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance and the city of Granada spread out before you.  The beautiful view is also a strategic advantage providing a great vantage point for watching out for enemy attacks.

6. The Gardens: The Alhambra is home to several beautiful gardens, including the Court of Lions and the Patio of the Lions. These gardens are a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and are a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of the Alhambra.

7. The Brick Wall Constructions: The Alhambra is known for its stunning red brick wall constructions, and the name ‘Alhambra’ means red castle in Arabic. The red color in the bricks comes from the minerals in the soil around the fortress.

8. The Palaces: The Alhambra is home to several beautiful places, including the Palace of the Lions and the Court of the Lions. They are adorned with intricate carvings, mosaics, and calligraphy, and are a testament to the wealth and power of the Nasrid dynasty.

9. The Mosaics: The Alhambra is home to dozens of inland mosaic artworks. These were developed by Muslims that were emulating Greco-Roman and Byzantine mosaics.

10. The Bathhouses: A stunning part of the palace there are many differences to the roman style bathhouses. There was a cold chamber for washing, a warm chamber, and a steam room.

The Alhambra is a stunning palace with a rich history and a diverse array of influences. The Alhambra is a testament to the cultural exchange that took place in Grenada. Whether you are interested in history, art, or culture, the Alhambra is a must-see for any visitor to Granada.

Note for Visitors: The entrance fee is around 20 euros and visting hours are strict, so be on time! Only 300 people are allowed in daily.