Nasrid Palaces — Attraction in Granada

An Oasis of Beauty: A Review of the Enchanting Nasrid Palaces

Stepping through the threshold of the Nasrid Palaces at Alhambra Granada felt more like entering a dream than a historical site. The air thrummed with a hushed reverence, as sunlight danced across the intricate muqarnas ceilings, casting mesmerizing patterns on the mosaic-tiled floors. Each intricate detail, from the delicate calligraphy adorning the walls to the playful water features in the Courtyard of the Lions, whispered stories of a bygone era.

Our guide was a true storyteller, weaving fascinating tales of the Nasrid dynasty that brought the palaces to life. Their passion and knowledge painted a vivid picture of the grandeur and daily life within these opulent walls.

The Courtyard of the Lions (Patio de los Leones) is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and breathtaking spaces within the Nasrid Palaces of Alhambra. Here's a deeper dive into its key features:

Central Fountain:

The centerpiece is the white marble fountain, adorned with twelve carved lions meticulously arranged in a dodecagon formation. Each lion spouts water, symbolizing the power and majesty of the Nasrid dynasty. The fountain itself possesses symbolic significance. Its twelve sides represent the zodiac signs and the cyclical nature of time, while the central basin, constantly replenished with flowing water, symbolizes the abundance and life-giving force of nature.

Architectural Marvels:

The courtyard is surrounded by a gallery with 124 slender white marble columns, each featuring unique capitals decorated with inscriptions and vegetal motifs. The arches supporting the gallery showcase a blend of Islamic and Christian influences, evident in the horseshoe arch shape and delicate plasterwork. The intricate tilework covering the walls and floors boasts geometric patterns and vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.

Historical Significance:

Built during the reign of Sultan Muhammad V in the 14th century, the courtyard served as the heart of the private royal residence, offering a serene and luxurious space for relaxation and contemplation. The water flowing through the fountain and channels represented not only beauty, but also prosperity and power. The sound of water was believed to promote tranquility and provide a connection to the natural world.

Modern Appeal:

Today, the Courtyard of the Lions remains a major draw for visitors. Its enchanting atmosphere and exquisite architecture offer a glimpse into the opulence and artistry of the Nasrid era. The courtyard frequently appears in photographs and films, serving as a symbol of the Alhambra's captivating beauty.

Each palace held its own unique charm: the Hall of the Two Sisters, bathed in an ethereal glow filtering through alabaster windows, and the Hall of the Abencerrajes, with its poignant history etched in stone, left us breathless.

Perhaps it was the breathtaking panorama of Granada visible from the Palace of Comares, the peaceful serenity of the Generalife gardens, or the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Mexuar.

The Nasrid Palaces are an unforgettable experience. The exquisite architecture, coupled with the rich history and evocative atmosphere, make it a must-visit for anyone...

Buy your tickets online and early!! It gets 3 stars because this is still a must see. The views are amazing. The water features being fes by gravity and not pumps is magic. But....they have not figured out how to run the place at all. The ticket counter was as mismanaged as 5 year olds soccer game being refed by a 3 year old. I thought the tour guides were street hustlers at first. The entrance to the ticket booth is off to the side guarded by two or three people that do not speak. You have to read their minds. Then they require you passport to put your info into their computer system. Why do you need to log me into your tourist attraction? I doubt you have the it support to not get broken into so why are you storing that info? I'm not entering a different country. Then they check it at every entry point. Yes multiple entry points with 3 or 4 attendants. 5 that I remember. Each little part requires a separate entry ticket that you pay for online or at the ticket counter. Then you have to wait in a line to see that part of this castle system. The part with the fountain clock was sold out by 1000 when I got there. That is a complete money grab and the little stations slow everything down. It would be better if they just made it a one price ticket and include everything. It's just poor management from what I could tell. The management of the facilities is remarkable. The place was supre clean and well managed. It was just the ticketing and personal info that got...

The palace is one of the most recognizable places in Spain. It is a showcase of the southern part of the country and the times when a completely different culture existed in these areas.

Entrance to this part is only available with prior reservation. The ticket is valid for a specific hour and it is very important to show up on time.

This part of the attraction includes observing architecture, mosaics, sculptures, fountains, cornices and domes :) If you are someone who is looking for excitement and entertainment, you won't find it here! If you don't have historical knowledge, it will be difficult to find your way around these chambers. They are full of hand-carved finishes whose detailing is astonishing after 500 years. Numerous fountains, which at that time were a sign of prosperity for the inhabitants of the desert, decorate every room, walkway and marks the passages. Balconies built on a square plan create a kind of solitude, which encourages to contemplation and practically completely isolates them from the world. In their center there are water basins that reflect the decorated walls of the palace. The culmination of everything is walthy greenery - trimmed live fences and orange trees.

A beautiful place for every history and...