Places Of Interest In Spain-the Alhambra

The Alhambra is a huge complex of palaces, fortress and administrative quarters built by the Moorish monarchs in Granada

. The outer walls are built of red bricks and the name of the building complex probably comes from the word 'red' in Arabic. Built between 1238 and 1358 on a plateau overlooking the city of Granada, it was strategically placed to guard one of Moorish Spain's foremost cities.

A Refuge

The Alhambra became a place of refuge for the many intellectuals and artists who were fleeing from the Christian Reconquest. They also contributed to the embellishment of the complex since among their number were many artisans; Arabic, Christian and Jewish. Today, their legacy can still be seen in the well-preserved fountains, gardens and other products of beauty.

The Alhambra Dismantled

After the Reconquest in 1492, the interior was effaced with most furniture and decorations either removed or destroyed. Part of the complex was destroyed to build a palace for the Spanish king and during the Spanish War of Independence from France, several towers were destroyed. The earthquake of 1821 also did much damage to the buildings. Restoration began a little later and continued for over a century.

Structure

The citadel or fortress part of the complex is the Alcazaba. Its massive walls, several meters thick, still maintain their formidable appearance while the supporting structures such as towers and ramparts have also withstood the ravages of time and man. Inside the citadel is the Torre de la Vela, a watch tower from where you can obtain a wonderful view of the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains and the city of Granada.

The Generalife

Another building that forms part of the Alhambra complex is the Generalife, a summer palace on the Cerro del Sol. It has many gardens, fountains, pools and other related items all erected within a series of courtyards. Intended as a getaway for the king during the hot summers in Madrid, the Generalife Palace within the Alhambra was both a safe and a pleasant place. Today, a theater constructed within the palace is the scene for musical performances as well as dance repertoires.

The Patio de Los Leones

The Court of the Lions or Patio de Los Leones is another interesting place to visit. It is a courtyard surrounded by pavilions with the Fountain of Lions in the center. Twelve marble lions support an alabaster basin. The floor of the courtyard is also elaborate, with marble multicolored tiles while the walls are also equally eye-catching with blue and yellow tiles that reflect the white marble of the Fountain of Lions.

by: Bartho Lomew

POST COMMENT

Places Of Interest In Spain-the Cordoba Mosque Places of Interest in Spain-Burgos Places of Interest in Spain-Extremadura Places of Interest in Spain-La Rioja Places of interest in Spain – Benidorm The tiny city of Marbella in Spain is popular amongst the elites in Europe! Costa Blanca - Spain Taste the magic of Spain through the fantastic cuisine Spain preparation for Euro Cup 2012 Are you visiting Spain in a small group? Castles In Spain Places Of Interest In Spain-toledo A Glance at the City of Mallorca -- Spain