Granada, Granada, Andalusia, Spain
Palace · Nasrid · 13th-15th Century
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. It is one of the most famous monuments of Islamic architecture and one of the best-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world, in addition to containing notable examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Construction: 1238 – 1391 (Major Palace)
Founder: Muhammad I Ibn al-Ahmar
Key figures: Muhammad I, Yusuf I, Muhammad V
Significance: The last stronghold of Muslim rule in Spain and a pinnacle of Islamic aesthetic refinement.
- 889: Original fortress built on Roman remains
- 1238: Reconstruction begins under Muhammad I
- 1333: Yusuf I converts it into a royal palace
- 1492: Surrender to Catholic Monarchs
Architectural styles: Nasrid, Islamic, Moorish
Materials: Red clay, Stucco, Wood, Ceramic tiles
- Court of the Lions: Famous courtyard featuring a fountain supported by 12 marble lions.
- Muqarnas: Intricate stalactite vaulting used in the Hall of the Abencerrajes and Hall of the Two Sisters.
- Generalife Gardens: Summer palace and country estate with elaborate water features.
Opening hours: 08:30 - 20:00 (summer) · 08:30 - 18:00 (winter) – Night visits available.
- General: €19.09
- Gardens only: €10.61
Accessibility: Partial wheelchair access due to historic nature.
Official site: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es
Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain
Coordinates: 37.176, -3.5875