The last stronghold of the Moors is now Spain’s most famous and visited monument.
The Alhambra Palace, which was once barracks to Napoleonic troops, lived in by beggars and almost lost to time and destruction. Thanks to Romantic writers especially Washington Irving (Tales of the Alhambra) the Spanish government made it a national monument in 1870.
Rescued, renovated and practically replaced the Palace is an incredible glimpse of the Moorish way of life, and stunning architecture. As awe-inspiring as the complex is on the inside, take a visit to Mirador San Nicholas especially in the early evening twilight. Watch the panorama of city lights come alive and the Alhambra is majestic. As Bill Clinton said it offers the most beautiful view in Spain. To get to the Mirador (viewing point) walk from Plaza Larga go through the Arco de las Pasas, in the west corner, and turn left up Callejon de San Cecilio.
Where better to stay than the 4* Parador de Granada “San Franciso” a converted convent in the Palace grounds built by the Catholic Kings. With far-reaching views and tinkling fountains it’s a pricey yet stylish treat.
www.parador.es
A more reasonably price choice of accommodation is Hotel Molinos, listed in the Guiness book of Records as the narrowest hotel in the world at just over 5m.
With only nine rooms it’s a pleasant cosy stay with the bonus of a garage.
www.eeel.es/molinos
Two good sites for more accommodation options and information about places to go and special events are
www.granadatur.com
www.turismodegranada.org
Modern Granada is busy and with most of the historical monuments being close together EXplore on foot and you’ll discover more delights. From Plaza Nueva take the Cuesta de Gomerez up to the Alhambra. In this square most of Granda’s classical guitars are made, and you can often hear classical guitars being tested before purchase. After your visit make you way down by Cuesta de los Chinos a short and beautiful path.
Visit the medieval streets of the Albaicin, the largest surviving Moorish quarter in Spain. In this quarter in particular gypsy women hang about and are quick to present you with a bunch of herbs. If you don’t want your palm read or to part with some money completely ignore them, this works better than trying to refuse.
