Alhambra, A Timeless Jewel of Granada, Spain

alhambra

Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, overlooking the charming city of Granada, stands one of the most iconic and breathtaking monuments of Islamic architecture in Europe — the Alhambra.

A masterpiece of Moorish art, this palatial fortress complex is more than just a historic site; it's a living testament to centuries of culture, conquest, and craftsmanship.

A Glimpse Into History

The Alhambra’s story begins in the 9th century as a modest fortress, but it wasn't until the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th century that it transformed into the architectural marvel we know today. Under rulers like Muhammad I and Yusuf I, the Alhambra evolved into a sophisticated citadel, complete with lavish palaces, serene courtyards, intricate gardens, and powerful defensive structures.

When the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella reclaimed Granada in 1492, the Alhambra was repurposed but preserved, with Renaissance touches added alongside the existing Islamic artistry. This blending of styles gives the Alhambra its unique character — a place where Moorish poetry meets Spanish Renaissance elegance.

Architectural Wonders

Continue reading
  89 Hits
14 May 2020
Travel
For me, one of the highlights of the Kentucky Bourbon trail is the Maker’s Mark Distillery.  Makers has been my go-to Bourbon for years now – and it was a cool experience to visit the distillery ...
13 April 2020
Travel
The Arc de Triomf is a triumphal arch in the city of Barcelona, Spain. It was built by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas as the main access gate for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. The arch crosses ...
13 April 2020
Travel
Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as El Morro, is a fort that was built in San Juan in the 16th century when Puerto Rico was under Spanish rule. A trip to San Juan isn’t complete without visit...
14 April 2020
Travel
La Boqueria is a world famous market in Barcelona on the edge of the Barri Gòtic.  It’s located in El Raval with an entrance to the market right off La Rambla.  An incredible place full of j...
30 May 2020
Travel
One of the things that really blew my mind when I first saw Dali’s work in person was the scale of the paintings.  It one thing to look at a plate in a book on art, but when you stand before a pa...