The Alhambra, Granada, Spain-Nasrid Palace & the General Life Gardens

Until this day, I find it difficult to describe what it was like to see and experience the Alhambra in person. The incredible history, the detailed architecture, the great use of space which allowed for some incredible views of the City below and the creative use of flowing and reflecting water and gardens throughout the grounds is simply amazing. I would say that my visit here is probably one of the best experiences that I have had during my travels and something I will never forget.

When going through the Alhambra you should know that Islamic art does not use representations of living beings, but uses geometric patterns, especially symmetric (repeating) patterns. With this in mind you'll find that the palace is decorated with stone and wood carvings and tile patterns on most of the ceilings, walls, and floors. The design and structure in the Nasrid Palace is considered to be the finest examples of Islamic architectural art to be found outside of the Islamic world.

Nasrid Palace consists of several different palaces connected together. The first room that you enter is called the Hall of the Mexuar and it is the place where the administration of justice was performed



The Mexuar court stands out for the magnificent facade of the Comares Palace.


The Courtyard of the Mexuar, Fountain – The central fountain is a copy of that located in the Garden of Lindaraja.


Here in the oratory room, you'll find that the tiling is of a decorative glazed ceramic, used in the Nasrid Architecture.


Comares Court and Tower


The lions court is the most well-known part of the Alhambra. Its name comes from the 12 lions of the fountain located in the center of the courtyard. The lion sculptures are one of the rare representations in the Alhambra of living beings in all Muslim art. Unfortunately during my visit the lions were removed and the fountain enclosed.


Palace of the Lions – Columns - The gallery of the courtyard is supported by 124 columns in white marble. Each column is decorated with calligraphic inscriptions.

Dome of the Hall of the Two Sisters – Most impressive and recognizable architecture element of the hall is the dome of mocarabes, a decorative element present throughout the monument.


The Portico Palace with the Torre de las Damas (Ladies Tower) is the oldest palace in the Alhambra. It is surrounded by gardens and a reflecting pool.


The General Life Gardens was the recreational place for the Nasrid Kings.

The Acequia Real



The Mirador with some awesome view


Patio of the Sultan


I hope to create a photo Album on the Slow Travel Site for the Alhambra which will include these photos, the photos I posted earlier of the Alcazaba and others...

For Information on the Alhambra: Click here on the World Heritage Site or on the Wikipedia Site HERE.