Second time around. After eight or so years I found myself back at Alhambra. This most gorgeous remnant from the Moorish empire in Granada, southern Spain. As I stroll around I contemplate that they must have selected this spot for their fortress/palace with great care. At the very foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the view of the surrounding landscape is extraordinary. Both for pleasure and for keeping an eye out for approaching enemies. It’s also basking in sun from early morning to late evening.
Alhambra revisited (view from Generalife)
The Moors begun building Alhambra in 1238. It was to be the last Muslim state of Andalucia. The Catholics conquered the site in 1492. That they didn’t knock down this paradise on earth can only be interpreted as them realising its value. And doing generations in subsequent centuries a massive favour. We should be so lucky.
Marble columns Patio de Los Leones.
Alhambra (specifically Palacios Nazaries and Generalife) is about Moorish architecture inside and out. They knew how to rock this lifestyle – a floating and seamless existence between indoors and outdoors. Only works this well in the right climate. I found it rather exciting sitting on a bench underneath a palm tree taking in the view of the snow covered tops of Sierra Nevada. Here are some photos from my visit.
Famous fountain – Patio de Los Leones – Palacios Nazaries
Generalife
Generalife
