Granada
What's it like in Granada?
Southern Spain has considerably more than its fair share of impressive architecture and spectacular scenery. But none of the famous images associated with the region are as evocative - or instantly recognisable - as Granada’s magnificent Alhambra Palace, dramatically outlined against the towering, snow-capped Sierra Nevada.
Far smaller than the provincial capitals of Málaga and Sevilla, Granada is only 178 kilometres from Marbella and just a 90-minute drive. And whatever the captivating city may lack in size is more than compensated for by the sheer number and splendour of its many ancient palaces, churches, museums, art galleries and other places of interest, all of which – unique though they unquestionably are - are nonetheless overshadowed by the awe-inspiring Alhambra which, with some 8,000 visitors a day, is reputed to be the most popular monument anywhere in Spain, and is regarded by many as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
Mirroring Granada’s fascinating chequered history and multi-cultural traditions, the Alhambra – surrounded by the breathtakingly beautiful gardens of the Generalife – is not one building, but an imposing complex comprising a rich tapestry of architectural styles. Classified as a World Heritage Site, over the centuries the Alhambra has, quite literally, seen it all!
Originally founded in prehistoric times by native tribes, Granada was first known as Ilbyr. The Romans followed, christening the town Illibris, but its current name was bestowed upon it by the Moors crossing the Straits of Gibraltar in 711 to erect the walls and lay the foundations of their prosperous civilisation. Granada rose to importance after the fall of the Caliphate of Córdoba in the IX century and its splendour reached an all-time high in 1238 when the kingdom of Granada – established by Mohammed Ben Nasar – extended all the way from Murcia to Gibraltar. Ruled by Islam for more than 300 years, Granada was the last Muslim capital on the Iberian Peninsula until its reclamation by the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492.
The Alhambra itself was originally created for military use with the earliest building, a fortress dating from the IX century, and subsequently restored by the Nazari Dynasty responsible during the XIV century for constructing the lavish palaces, fortifications and resplendent gardens. After becoming a Christian court, the Church of St Mary was added, as was the vast Palace of Charles V, and several other buildings including the Monastery of St Francis, these days a luxurious and enchanting 4-star Parador.
During the XVIII and XIX centuries the Alhambra fell into neglect and was occupied by thieves and beggars, while between 1808 and 1812, the palatial buildings were turned into barracks occupied by Napoleon’s troops, and it wasn’t until 1870 that the Alhambra was belatedly declared a national monument and a much-needed programme of restoration was begun. Nowadays the Alhambra and Generalife gardens host the city’s long-established and widely acclaimed International Music and Dance Festival, the 54th annual edition of which was held in 2005.
Granada is a city best discovered on foot. The Albaicín, famed for its fascinating maze of narrow streets and typically whitewashed houses complete with intriguing patio gardens, are in marked contrast to the busy commercial district of Gran Vía de Colón and Calle de los Reyes Católicos close to the cathedral. Other monuments well worth visiting include the Capilla Real - the mausoleum housing the remains of Ferdinand and Isabella, as well as the Bañuelo Arab Baths.
But strong though its links with the past undoubtedly are, Granada is fully committed to the future, too. An example of this is its recently opened, state-of-the-art ‘Parque de las Ciencias’ Science Museum which features an inspirational series of hands-on, interactive exhibits, some aimed at children as young as three years of age, together with a fabulous planetarium offering night observation.
VIVA TOP TIPS
At 680 metres (2,231 feet above sea level), and given its proximity to the lofty peaks of the Sierra Nevada – normally blanketed in snow from December to April – winter temperatures can be as low as 7ºC, and in the height of summer Granada is considerably cooler than the Costa del Sol. You’ll need to wrap up warmly in the winter, and even on summer evenings may appreciate having a sweater or jacket with you. If you're visiting the Alhambra Palace, book in advance, you can do so by credit card online at: www.AlhambraTickets.com.
If you’re planning to visit the International Music & Dance Festival (held each year from late June to mid July), you should reserve tickets and accommodation well in advance.
Granada’s regional cuisine is much more substantial than that of the Costa del Sol and features many aromatically spiced, hearty soups and stews. The Sacromonte omelette and Grenadine-style broad beans are particularly recommended, as are locally-caught grilled trout (served with Spanish ham), quail and rabbit, and the highly-prized cured ham from nearby Trevélez.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Granada Tourist Information Offices:
Plaza Mariana Pineda, 10 - Tel: (+34) 958 247 128
Real de La Alhambra - Tel: (+34) 958 229 575
Calle Santa Ana, 4 - Tel: (+34) 958 225 990
Avda. Andalucía - Tel: (+34) 958 279 398
Granada Official City Hall Website: www.granadatur.com
Granada International Music & Dance Festival: www.granadafestival.org
Parque de las Ciencias (Science Museum): www.parqueciencias.com
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