Tag: palace

Granada is located in the province of Andalusia in southern Spain. It is at the foot of the picturesque Sierra Nevada Mountains. Granada has a deep Islamic history. Muslim forces took over from the Visigoths in 711 and ruled until well into the 15th century and built a large palace which overlooks the city.
The Alhambra is the most famous site of Granada. The palace and its gardens show the Islamic influence. The detailed arched doorways and tiled walls are typical of Muslim architecture. The gardens and reflecting pools show the Muslim influence.
Besides being a historical city, Granada is a lot of fun. It is one of the hippest and festive cities in Andalusia, with a free-tapas culture, innovative bars, tiny flamenco holes and thumping club scene. There are some great festivals in Granada, like Semana Santa (Holy Week), where many streets are closed down to cars. You can walk around and see religious processions. Many parties are held in the street and flamenco dancing is seen everywhere.
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The 13th Century Alhambra in Granada in Spain is a absolute delight. The Islamic architecture is very intricate and stunning and a visit can wile away hours as you explore the different palaces. These same palaces were built for last Muslim emirs in Spain and the buildings are quadrangular in plan, with all the rooms opening on to a central court. Some, as shown below, have a small decorative reflective pool. The name Alhambra comes from the Arabic al-qala’a al-hamra (the Red Castle). Interestingly the first palace on the site was built by Samuel Ha-Nagid, the Jewish grand vizier of one of Granada’s Zirid sultans.