Granada: The Alhambra, "Paradise on Earth" . . .

Before my trip I read somewhere that the Alhambra is considered the “Jewel” of Andalusia and now I know why. The use of space, light and water is so ingenious and the intricate detail of the wall carvings and beautiful tile work is beyond comparison to anything that I have ever seen. The rooms are airy and the beautiful arches gives way to the views of the city below. Patios and flowing water moves through the palace giving it a calming and relaxing feel. I can’t even begin to adequately describe my feelings as I walked through the Alhambra other than to say that it simply took my breath away.

And just when I think I’ve seen everything and I can now begin to catch my breath, I walk over to the General Life and find these gorgeous gardens and patios that have these well trimmed hedges, colorful flowers, well placed trees, fountains and reflecting pools. More arches . . . more views!

For my visit I purchased an Audio guide for $4 euros. As I walk through the Alhambra I can hear the words of Washington Irving brilliantly describing everything to me as I am seeing them. It inspired me so much that I picked up a special 175th edition of Washington Irving’s “Tales of the Alhambra” and decided to read it while sitting just outside the palace overlooking the city view below. How's that for being creative!

I wish I could be more descriptive but I am at a complete loss for words (and I’m talking both my outer and inner journey thoughts too).

I absolutely love Granada! I have such a great vibe here. The people are super friendly. The town is not too small and not too large…it has ample bars and restaurants to select from, shops and the bus system seems easy. There is an Alhambra bus that you can take for only $1.10 Euros between the Alhambra where my hotel is and the city center below.

I will say this for sure, if you decide to visit Southern Spain at all, you must include Granada in your plans. It is a must visit!

And for your enjoyment, a few photos of paradise . . .

The walls and towers of the Alcazaba . . .

Mexuar Room


Close-up of wall on the Patio del Mexuar

Close-up of one of the wall carvings and tile work, Interestingly, some of the calligraphic decoration on the walls of the Alhambra contain poems by three poets of the Court of Granada . . . Columns from the Patio de los Leones . . .

Patio de Arraynes...this patio was designed so that the pool would reflect the sun into the rooms surrounding it and to also make this patio larger than it really is.


Close-up of reflection . . .


Palacio del Partal . . .


Patio de la Acequia (Located in the General Life) . . .

The Alhambra from the Albaicin . . .

The entire grounds of the Alhambra had such great beauty. Sometimes when I was walking along a big gush of wind would come along and these beautiful fall leaves would rain down on us...it was pretty cool!

One of the many sweeping views of the city below as seen from the palace . . .

Alhambra at night . . .

And just so you know, the city of Granada is a wonderful place to go and hang out. And I managed to tear myself away from the Alhambra to do so . . .

Tommorrow morning I head for Ronda so I can stand top of the “New Bridge”. Not sure if my Hotel will have wi-fi or that I’ll find an internet café. If I do then I will blog from there. But just in case I don't get connected before Thursday, I just wanted to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

And I'll say goodnight with this precious look a like photo of AnnieNC's Lulu . . .