Alhambra, A Moorish Affair., Spain

The ancient city of Granada is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in southern Spain, but the city gets is charm from the exquisite citadel and palace carrying along a celebrated history, the Alhambra. Belonging to the medieval ages it is the only Muslim  palace in the world that has survived till today. Perched on a hilltop, the grand palace was built by the Muslim ruler Mohammed  Ben Al – Ahmar to serve as their protection on the Iberian Peninsula, towards the end of the 13^th century. The death of the prophet Mohammed in 632 AD led to the spread of the Islamic  Empire away from Arabia. At its peak the empire stretched across continents from India to Portugal.

The Moors were nomadic people from North African country of Morocco. They were Islamic converts who made it into the Iberian Peninsula by crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, from the 8^th century onwards they had established their rule throughout the Spain. Alhambra was the highlight of their entire kingdom, a symbol of their glory. Spain had been conquered  by the Christian monarchs in 1492 by the time its construction was finished. The Christian rulers also began to use certain portions of the Alhambra, with Charles V building his own palace within the Alhambra. The Alhambra thus became the last Moorish refuge, managing to flourish for another two centuries through trade, commerce and diplomacy in full swing.

The Alhambra didn’t again any more artistic Islamic influences from the rest of the world, it is safe to say and it was largely sequestered and soon developed exotic and unique artwork that is still visible to the visitors today. Its name Alhambra translates to the Arabic word as Red Fortress. Being built from red clay, the name deemed to be most suitable for it.  The picturesque whitewashed buildings nestled in a forest led a Moorish poet to describe it as  a pearl set in emeralds. Ann oasis of decorative serenity along with its chambers and verdant gardens is tucked amidst its awe inspiring castles walls and towers. The European influences are evident on the Islamic structure. This happened after the Moors  were expelled from Granada.

The square and bland exterior conceals a fine from of Islamic artwork. Courtyards with small fountains, magnificent palaces and secret gardens that evoke the tranquility in the region are enclosed with striking ramparts of the Alhambra. The over scale of the Alhambra is impressive with exquisite details. The effort of the workers put into minute details of these features is evident

Inside on every surface one can observe geometric patterns of interlocking shapes. These decorative features represent God, as in those days, the depiction of the human form was forbidden by religion. The same is also represented in the ornate calligraphy used for quotations of the Koran.

Most of the parts which seem nothing but ordinary in the daylight, are magnificent in the night. It is said that the Alhambra was built to be seen in the night with its shining marble retaining is whiteness and undoing its weather stains of the daytime, unlike most constructions of the period. Thee are four gates to the Alhambra walls one of the tourist routes to enter is through the Gate of Justice, also known as gate of the Esplanade. The gate was built in 1348 and stands a the largest gate of the four. Make sure to pick up an English audio tour for information of the monument. The Alcazaba building is a must visit, it was used for militaries affairs. The renowned Vela Tower is located here, from where one can witness some breathtaking views of Sierra Nevada. The ruins of baths and water  tanks are still visible today.

Constructed in 1533 the Palace of Charles V is a beautiful piece of Renaissance Architecture, with Italian influences. The museum of Alhambra is situated on the ground floor of the palace. The Granada Music and Dance festival as well as exhibitions are known to take place in its courtyard. Alhamar, the founder of the dynasty, constructed this complex of palaces in the 13^th century, known as the Placios Nazariesd. It comprises of three strikingly beautiful palaces, namely, the Mexuar, the Comares and the Palace of the Lions.

While exploring the Alhambra the visitors will enjoy a thrilling experience discovering space that filter through ornate screens, a classic concept used in Islamic Architecture. Wafting scents from the nearby garden and the calm breeze  will guide  the visitors passing  between rooms to explore more of the palace’s open plan.a pleasant combination of nature and pragmatism is evident in every corner of this majestic monument. Water has played a significant role in the concept of this monument, right from the running water flowing through hidden stone channels to exquisitely decorated fountains.