Plan a trip to Granada

Situated approximately 2421 feet above sea level, Granada is perched against the background of the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains while also being close to the famous beaches of the Costa del Sol. All these features, combined with its comfortable climate, make Granada an attractive destination for tourists.

Granada was the last stronghold of the Muslims in Spain, and the huge complex of remaining palaces, fortresses, and beautiful gardens – many declared as UNESCO World Heritage Sites- are among the city’s highlights.

The 13th century Alhambra, a palace and fortress complex which sits atop the hill above the city, reflects the splendor of Muslim rule in Spain, and is an unparalleled architectural gem. It is one of the most well-preserved palaces of the historic Islamic world, and it also contains remarkable examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The Nasrid palaces, Palacio Nazarias, built in the 14th century around the patios, are the heart of the Alhambra and great expressions of classic Moorish architecture. Arches, domes, wall murals, intricately decorated stucco walls, wooden ceilings, vividly colored tiles, and inscriptions in original Arabic calligraphy add to the grandeur of the palaces.

Generalife, located on a hillside near the Alhambra palace complex, was the summer palace of the sultans of Granada. It is a villa with gardens surrounded by abundant orchards, and it includes beautiful terraced gardens, courtyards, ancient trees, and fragrant flowers. There are also narrow paths, pools, fountains, and water that flows from the melting snow on the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. At the center of the complex is the pool patio - Patio de la Acequia (Patio of the Water Channel) – which is thought to be the oldest garden in the West. Pavilions, which provide a great lookout point for the impressive Alhambra complex, stand on both ends.

El Albaicin, the old Moorish quarter of Granada, is situated on a hill facing the Alhambra and offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Among the maze of narrow stone-paved alleys are the "Carmen Houses,” large walled villas with beautiful orchards and gardens. The fortifications, pools, fountains, gates, and Muslim houses are well-preserved.

The construction of the grand Granada Cathedral in the center of the city was begun by Queen Isabella in the early 16th century on the site of the old mosque, and it lasted about 200 years. It was originally a Gothic building, and then became a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece. Its exterior structure is Gothic. The church’s interior combines Renaissance style with a Gothic floor plan - chapels at the side and an impressive, magnificent main chapel in the middle, a masterpiece by Siloe. The cathedral houses many ornaments and priceless treasures.

The Capilla Real, the Royal Chapel of Granada, is one of the city’s most spectacular Christian buildings. Built in a magnificent Isabelline Gothic style, the Catholic kings ordered its construction in the early 16th century and requested that it be used as a mausoleum. It is the burial place of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand among other Spanish monarchs. The chapel is decorated with symbols of the kings' heroism and of the royal power, with beautiful wrought iron bars that enclose the two chapels. The chapel also houses a collection of invaluable art and historical objects including, Isabella's scepter and crown, Fernando's sword, and paintings by Flemish, Italian and Spanish artists.

Along with its rich history and culture, Granada boasts a lively night life and abundant bars, cafes, tapas bars, and restaurants which are a magnet for visitors and students.