Alhambra Palace Tour

The Alhambra - Fast Facts

Built for Christian kings during the Moslem Nasrid dynasty, the Alhambra is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic art & architecture existing today.

Due to tremendous popularity, tickets should be bought at least a week in advance and must be used on the day assigned. Open March - October daily 8:30AM to 8PM and later on weeknights.

Public transport - Microbus Alhambra, lines 30 & 32.

Art historians, gardeners, military war enthusiasts, medievalists, or lovers of Islamic and Christian culture are all well-rewarded with a visit to the Alhambra, the crown jewel of Moorish architecture throughout Spain.

Located in Granada (250 miles south of Madrid), the Alhambra was built over a period of years beginning in the 9th century with the construction of the La Alcazaba - originally planned as a military fortification with still-impressive views of Granada from its tower.

Inside, the rooms within the Palace of Comares are the highlight of the complex with its stunning Ambassador's Room, (the largest and most ornate), which includes views to the Patio de los Arrayanes, a columned courtyard with a beautiful fountain at its center.

Among other highlights, also don't miss the royal Palace of Muhammad V, or the equally famous Patio de los Leones, with its beautiful fountain supported by fierce lions sculpted in stone.

Another must-see is the Palace of Charles V, looking to all the world like a Renaissance-era villa, due mainly to it design by Pedro Machuca who once studied under Michelangelo in Florence.

Topping off the tour, make your way to the grand Gardens of Generalife, still preserved in the magic and mystery of 14th century design, and said to be originally laid-out as an earthly taste of paradise as described in the Koran.

More about the Alhambra around the Web:

• Visiting Alhambra Palace

• Granada - The Alhambra