The Alhambra Palace

An incredible place is present in the southern part of Spain. It is an incredible complex that combines architectural and natural features. It occupies an area in the east of the city of Granada, where there is a vast hilltop called La Sibina. In essence, the Alhambra Palace complex is a fortress combined with beautiful gardens and unrivalled courtyards.

The Alhambra

The Alhambra Palace is a perfect amalgamation of different origins into a coherent whole. It is an example of the union of nature and man, who together manage to create an incredible settlement that includes:

• fountains;
• courtyards;
• mosques;
• defensive structures;
• an original ensemble of trees.

The area is divided into distinct zones. A study of each of them gives an idea of the development of the area and of the palace itself.

Historical background

As early as the 8th century, the area was ruled by Muslims, who recaptured it in bloody battles. Mohammed Ibn Nasr declared himself Emir. He made important political, economic, social and other decisions, including that the capital would be in Granada.

In 1238 work began on Muhammad’s residence. It included a defensive fortress and castle called the Alhambra. Power remained in the hands of the Nasrid dynasty for a long time and their subjects showed their talents. Thus Moorish craftsmen built numerous castles and mosques in Granada. At the same time, the newly formed emirate became the richest in Spanish territory.

To keep possession Muslims it did not manage. At the end of XV century from all Iberian island have released Moorish. The Alhambra Castle became the royal residence but, as Charles V’s new home was being built, many of the existing buildings in the area were demolished. Those that did manage to survive were severely damaged when the 19th century earthquake struck the state.

The current appearance of the palace

After the destructive elements it was decided to start rebuilding the objects in the territory. Thus by the mid-nineteenth century the restoration of the palace and the fortress had already started. The first stage lasted for about 60 years and was highly unsuccessful. Only in the 20th century, the complex was restored to resemble its original form. However, it was not possible to achieve its exact original appearance.

The present-day Alhambra Palace in Granada is one of Spain’s most famous and tourist attractions. Each year it receives about 2 million visitors. Both foreign and local visitors come to the palace. Going around the entire palace, you have to spend a decent amount of time. But the local beauty is worth it. The view is shared by such renowned personalities as Byron, Hugo, Irving and many others. They took inspiration from their stay in the Alhambra castle and its features.