View	Nasrid Palace	Carlos V Palace

Details

Built o­n the Sabika Hill overlooking the city of Granada this magnificent fortress and palace was the home of the Nasrid Dynasty (1238-1492), the last Islamic Sultanate in Spain.

An original Ziridian fortress had existed here from the 11th Century known in Arabic as Al Qal'a al-Hamra - the red fort. When the Nasrid King Ibn al-Ahmer chose Granada as his capital he began adding to the existing structure by building towers and walls. The construction of a palace was begun although it was his 14th Century successors Yusuf I and Mohammed V who were responsible for the building and decoration of most of the rooms.

The main points of interest within the grounds are:

The Nasrid Palace - Royal palace consisting of beautifully designed and decorated function rooms, courtyards and living areas of the Muslim rulers.

The Palace of Carlos V - Renaissance style structure that adjoins the Nasrid Palace. Built by the Emporer Carlos V. A whole section of the original palace was demolished to make way for this building which consists of an outer square containing a circular central courtyard.

Tha Alcazaba - Fortress built o­n the highest part of the hill overlooking the surrounding area whose function was purely militaristic.

The Generalife - Consists of beautiful gardens, patios and fountains this is also the site of the Muslim rulers summer palace.

The Medina - A small town within the fortified walls used to house craftsmen who served the needs of the court. Remains of houses, baths and workshops can still be seen.