Top 15 Attractions in Granada

Andalusia is the heart of the south of Spain, its blood, soul and history. Granada is the heart of Andalusia, which still holds memories of the power of yesteryear. The city attracts tourists with passionate flamenco rhythms, the splendor of Catholic cathedrals, the magnificent architecture of the old quarters and the restless gypsy spirit, as if floating in the air.

The grandiose Alhambra - a witness to the heyday of the Emirate of Granada, the amazing caves of the Sacromonte quarter, the tomb of the famous Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile - these are just a small list of Granada's attractions. Here, since time immemorial, the gardens of the Generalife have blossomed against the backdrop of the snow-capped ridges of the Sierra Nevada, and in the evenings, hospitable taverns light their fires and invite spectators to enjoy a spectacular flamenco dance.

What to see and where to go in Granada?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.

Alhambra

An impressive palace complex surrounded by landscaped gardens, an ancient fortress of the Moorish rulers of the Emirate of Granada. The Alhambra is the pinnacle of architecture from the Nasrid period, which ruled southern Spain from 1230-1492. The architectural ensemble of the Alhambra includes palaces, mosques, gardens, artificial reservoirs, residential buildings and administrative buildings.

Sacromonte quarter

A unique gypsy quarter that is part of the Albaicín Historic District. Since the 15th century, gypsies have settled in the caves located on the slopes of one of the city hills. It is believed that it was these Spanish "gitanos" who created the beautiful art of flamenco. The caves are still inhabited, they are equipped according to modern realities. Some are inhabited by people, others are adapted for flamenco concerts and museums.

Albaicin quarter

The ancient Arab quarter, the historical center of Granada. It is located on a hill overlooking the Alhambra and the city's surroundings. Albayzin has existed for more than 700 years, but over the past time it has changed little - all the same white houses, narrow stone streets covered with paving stones, and small taverns. The first settlements on the site of Albayzin existed in the era of Antiquity before the arrival of the Moors.

Cathedral of Granada

Cathedral of the XVI-XVII centuries, built in honor of the victory of the Reconquista and the liberation of Spain from Mauritanian rule. Granada became the last stronghold of the weakening caliphate, and after its conquest in 1492, the Catholic kings decided to build a grandiose Christian church. In the appearance of the Cathedral of Granada, the influence of several architectural styles is noticeable: Gothic, Baroque, Classicism and the Renaissance.

Royal Chapel

The chapel is part of the architectural complex of the Cathedral of Granada; it was erected at the beginning of the 16th century according to the project of E. de Egas. The place is famous for the fact that the Catholic kings - Isabella and Ferdinand are buried here. It was thanks to these rulers that Spain was liberated from Arab rule. Also next to the crowned spouses under the vaults of the chapel is the tomb of their daughter Juana the Mad and her husband Philip the Handsome.

Abbey of Sacromonte

The abbey is located outside the city limits of Granada on the slopes of the Valparaiso hill. In the XVI - XVII centuries. these lands became a place of mass pilgrimage for Christians, since tablets were discovered here describing the martyrdom of some saints, as well as their relics. Some time later, with the approval of the Pope and his confirmation of the authenticity of the finds, an abbey was erected.

Monastery of Saint Jerome

Monastery of the XV century, built according to the project of D. de Siloe. The monastery of St. Jerome was the first Christian monastery built after the expulsion of the Moors. There is evidence that the decision to build it was made even before the victory over the Arabs. On the territory of the monastery there is the grave of the famous commander of the Reconquista - F.G. de Cordoba. For his brilliant victories, he was awarded the title of Grand Captain.

Carthusian monastery

The building of the monastery complex is a prominent representative of the architectural era of the Spanish Baroque. The construction of the monastery began in 1506 and lasted almost 300 years. For such a long time, the appearance has incorporated elements of several architectural styles. As a result of the sale of the surrounding land in the 19th century, the monastic cells and the abbot's house were lost, but otherwise the monastery retained its original appearance.

Basilica of Saint John of God

The church is located near the monastery of St. Jerome. The basilica was built in the 18th century at the expense of the Hospice Order, whose patron and founder was Saint John of God. It was decided to name the church in his honor. The relics of this saint are kept inside the temple. The interior is richly decorated with gilding, wall paintings and mirrors, massive chandeliers and other elements.

Granada Madrasah

Former Moorish school founded by Emir Yusuf I in the 14th century. Now on the territory of the madrasah is the Academy of Fine Arts, which is part of the University of Granada. In the Middle Ages, a wide range of disciplines was taught in the madrasah: law, mathematics, history, medicine. Some of the best thinkers of their time worked here. The school was closed in 1500 at the urging of the Catholic clergy. The building passed from owner to owner until it was in the hands of the University.

Arab baths

Operating baths located on the ruins of a medieval hammam at the foot of the Alhambra. The baths were reopened in the 17th century and were the first in Europe. Inside, visitors are invited to fully indulge in the ancient Moorish ritual of al-andalus bathing amid magnificent historic interiors. In addition, you can order a relaxing massage or swim in the pool.

Corral del Carbon

Former Moorish caravanserai, located near the cathedral. The complex was built during the heyday of the Nasrid dynasty in the 14th century; it is an exemplary representative of the Mudéjar architectural style. In the 16th century, for some time the inn was used as a coal warehouse, hence the name. In the 20th century, Corral del Carbon was restored several times.

science park

A modern museum and a platform for experiments, where you can find out how many physical processes “work”, what happens during natural disasters, how the planet is arranged and what the human body consists of. In addition to the theme rooms, the science park has a planetarium, a tropical butterfly garden, and an observatory with an observation tower. It is better to come here with children, as many attractions are designed for the inquisitive mind of children.

Gardens of the Generalife

Historical complex consisting of a palace and landscaped gardens. In the XIII-XIV centuries, the residence of the rulers of Granada was located here. Since 1984, this object has become part of the UNESCO Historical Heritage List. The complex is the apogee of the Arab park art. Everything here is designed taking into account the harmony of space - cypress alleys, small fountains, rose gardens create a unique feeling of privacy and tranquility.

Viewpoint Mirador de San Nicolás

The observation deck is located on the territory of the Albaicin district. All excursions in this historic quarter necessarily include a visit to the Mirador. It offers excellent views of the Alhambra, especially romantic and fascinating in the evening. Street musicians and souvenir vendors become frequent guests on the site. The place is popular with couples in love; at night, a lot of them gather here.