When traveling to Granada, Spain, embark on the city's most visited destination, Alhambra, to explore the rich history of the Moorish kings. Constructed between 1238 and 1558, it is an architectural beauty that can help awestruck visitors with its rich culture and history. Take a stroll through massive halls and intricately designed corridors for a wholesome experience.
The Alhambra palace, also known as "The Red Palace", is a fortress complex situated in the city center of Granada, Spain. The word "Alhambra" stands for red which has been driven from the Tapia's reddish color used on the palace's outer walls.
The monument's building is one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture and a well-preserved palace in the Islamic world. The palace's construction was completed chiefly between 1238 to 1558 during the rule of Ibn al-Aḥmar.
Formerly a citadel, Alhambra palace hosts quite an interesting story that you get to explore on your trip to this historical place. The palace is located surrounded by natural beauty, offering a panoramic view to all visitors.
It is constructed on a plateau that overlooks the Albayzin Granada's quarter. Alhambra was once the home of all Moorish Kings; it had now been transformed into a famous palace visited by thousands of history buffs all around the year.
As you walk by the palace, get in awe of all the vibrant flowers and massive fountains all around. On your tour of Alhambra, observe its intricate architectural design and details, making it the most sought-after destination in Alhambra.
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Highlights
• Ranked amongst the best attractions in one of Spain's most popular cities, Barcelona, Alhambra palace is nothing less than a sight to behold, especially if you're with your friends and family.
• Here, you can eye-witness the magnificent fountains, ponds, greenery and the palace's interiors which are indeed breathtaking.
• You can also indulge in photography near the fountains or inside the palace's premises.
• Marvel at the magnificent facades of the palace in Barcelona, or admire the beauty of fountains and gardens built here to grab tourists' attention.
• Get a glimpse of the life story of Moorish kings on your tour to Barcelona's most sought-after destination, Alhambra.
• With its intricate design and vast nave, Alhambra is an incredible and one of the only surviving examples of Islamic architecture.
• Indulge in a guided tour of the Alhambra and get easy access to the spectacular terraces and balconies of the structure. Each of these promises the most panoramic views of the cityscape.
How To Reach
By car - Alhambra is situated around 3 km away from the Barcelona city center. This distance can be covered by a car or cab within 10 minutes only.
By bus - The nearest bus station from Alhambra palace is the Alhambra - Generalife 2. You can travel from the Barcelona city center to Alhambra - Generalife 2 bus station. After reaching, get down and walk towards Alhambra, which is located only 550 m away from the bus station. This distance can be covered within 5 minutes.
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Best Time To Visit
The best time to travel to the famous Alhambra in Barcelona is either during the morning time or late evening. This is the time when the sunlight hits the glass windows and creates a magical effect inside the palace. If you want to experience this beauty amidst a lesser crowd, it is best to visit this place by 10:00 AM or an hour before closing time. If you can, try visiting the palace on a weekday as it is less crowded during weekdays allowing you to appreciate the intricate architecture and explore the attraction from a closer perspective.
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Other Essential Information
Tips to visit Alhambra
- Always check the timings for the day before planning your trip to Alhambra, Barcelona.
- It is advisable to choose your shoes wisely as the tour to Alhambra may include a lot of walking.
- All foreign tourists need to carry their visa details and passports at the arrival gate.
- It is advisable to visit this place timely so that you can spend ample time here.
- It is recommended that you cover your head with a hat, your eyes with sunglasses, and put on sunscreen lotion to protect yourself from the heat.
- ID proof is mandatory to enter the park.
- Buy online tickets to avoid standing in long queues during the scorching heat in Barcelona.
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Mexuar
The most ancient part of Alhambra is the Mexuar which has been transformed completely since its initial construction. This section features a courtroom and azulejo-clad audience chamber, which were used to conduct large assemblies and the public administration of justice. Later, this place was transformed into a chapel and featured a balustraded balcony, formerly a choir. On the left is the golden chamber, which features one of Alhambra's finest facades.
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Court of Myrtles
Famously known as the Court of Myrtles, Patio del Mexuar is another historical site that leads inside the Patio de Los Mirtos, also known as Patio de Los Arrayanes. It is a spacious courtyard that features fountains, a pond, and graceful arcades at every end. Since the pond is located close to the courtyard, it reflects the structure's facade in the glistering water.
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Comares Tower
Torre de Comares or Comaed tower is the tallest standing tower inside the palace premises. This tower is located amidst the walls of the Sala de la Barca. The tower features stained-glass windows known as "comarías" from which the name "comares tower" has been driven. During the sunset, the light falls on these stained glasses, which illuminates the hall premises.
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Hall of Ambassadors
As you enter Torre de Comares, there is a massive hall called Sala de Los Embajadores or the Hall of Ambassadors, which is indeed one of Alhambra's most magnificent and exclusive rooms. It was once a throne room inside which all Granada rulers received foreign envoys. The use of large windows, a larch-wood dome and intricate carvings on the walls make this space an eternal beauty. The hall also features a profusion of ornamentation, regarded as one of its most striking features.
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Hall of Blessings
Located inside the Torre De Comares, the Hall of blessings or Sala de Barca is another rectangular-shaped hall that is 4.35 meters wide and 24 meters long. Originally, this hall was smaller; however, a fire broke out here in 1890 post which, and this was transformed into a massive hall of blessings in 1964. The walls of the hall feature plasterwork and intricate designs with the Nasrid coat, such as "blessing" and "Only God is Victor."
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