ALHAMBRA

The Palace of Charles V and the Generalife Gardens

The Alhambra is a monumental fortress rich in art and culture in Granada, Spain, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The name Alhambra means “the red one” (Al-Ḥamrā) in Arabic, which is due to the reddish color of the outer walls.

The complex consists of fortress walls, palaces, churches and gardens that give us a clear idea of what life might have been like for the Arab sultans.

One of the most remarkable buildings in the Alhambra is the Palace of Charles V, a symbol of Christianity built alongside the fine Islamic art of the Alhambra. It is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture from the 16th century. However, the palace was never inhabited by Charles V and remained unoccupied until 1957.

The Generalife Gardens are another enchanting feature of the Alhambra. It was the place where the Nasrid sultans went to relax and contemplate. The name means “garden of the architect”. They are known for their lush gardens, impressive fountains and breathtaking views.