The Dar al-Horra Palace, which is located in the Albaicin quarter, was built in the XV century on the remains of a Zirid palace from the XI century. It follows the Hispanic Muslim houses' typology, with bay windows on the top floor, polychrome ceilings in the majority of the rooms and rectangular patio with double arcade in its smallest sides. Its name means " House of the Honest Lady " and in this place lived Boabdil's mother, Aicha.
After the conquest of Granada by the Catholic Kings in 1492, it was ceded to their secretary Hernando de Zafra. The building had different owners until it was acquired in 1928 with money from the Ahambra tickets, by the architect and conservator Leopoldo Torres Balbás, who restored it in 1931 and gave it its original appearance back. This first restoration has been followed by other restorations from the 40s until now.
Since 2012, The Dal al-Horra Palace is assigned to the Council of the Alhambra and Generalife, as well as other places like Corral del Carbón, Casa Morisca Horno de Oro and the Bañuelo baths, becoming a part of an itinerary called La Dobla de Oro.
This nazrid building presents structural problems, Technical studies are being carried out to determine its cause. Once they are finished the Council will proceed to...
Read moreDar al-Horra Palace is named after Aisha al-Horra, the wife of Sultan Abu'l-Hasan Ali ("Muley Hacén") and mother of the last Nasrid sultan, Muhammad XII ("Boabdil"). The name "Dar al-Horra," meaning "House of the Free Woman," reflects its association with Aisha al-Horra, who lived during the 15th century when Granada was the capital of the last Muslim Emirate on the Iberian Peninsula under the Nasrid dynasty.
The palace’s interior is somewhat minimalist, with few furnishings or exhibits. However, its true charm lies in the panoramic views and exquisite Moorish architecture. As you explore the palace, you'll be captivated by its arches, courtyards, and intricate designs, showcasing the architectural mastery of the Nasrid dynasty.
Be sure to visit the tower for the most stunning views. The wooden window might appear closed at first, but you can open it to fully appreciate the surroundings.
The 20-euro entry fee might seem a bit steep for what’s inside, but if you include it in a bundled package with other attractions, it can be a more cost-effective way to explore Granada’s...
Read moreThey don't update hours properly, they close at 5pm on September. We got rushed in then out when we came and got blamed for not following what was told, when we just got a real fast Spanish explanation and our day ticket was held. This is not the fault of the employees there but of a very bad management of hours entries, website and documents, which could really be improved to accommodate that (and help clients avoid scams).
I also got called out like a trespasser in Maristan for going in front of the agent office looking for the stairs and finding the bathroom with no sign on the door (there was like 10 people in there and they still can't recognize us). Another proof that those places are badly managed.
The Dobla de Oro tour was quite deceiving on that note as it lacks information and things to see. I'm hoping they'll try better because those places have...
Read more