Sights of Granada that are worth visiting. The best attractions of Granada with photos and descriptions. Palace of Charles V

This ancient Spanish city with its unusual and interesting architecture surprisingly combines modern achievements, ancient beauties and breathtaking landscapes. All the sights of Granada in one way or another tell about the glorious two-thousand-year history and what the people managed to achieve during this time. Walking along city streets leaves a strong impression on any tourist, no matter how experienced he is in travel. So, what to see in Granada for those who come here for the first time?

What to see first in Granada

The concept of interesting places is different for every tourist. We offer a list of the best attractions in Granada according to people with completely different interests, passions, income and amount of free time.

1. Alhambra

Panorama of the Alhambra against the backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains

Truly, describing the sights of Granada , This one is impossible to miss. Everything about the Alhambra is beautiful: the location on the top of the rock, and the rich content of the complex. It includes palaces, a fortress and gardens of the rulers. The buildings have a stunning view against the backdrop of rock formations and forest thickets. Reviews note magnificent terraces with graceful arches, wonderful fountains, ponds, and cozy courtyards. Everywhere the eye stops at the bright mosaics, carved ornaments made on stone and wood, and beautiful ceramic tiles. This place is one of those places you simply must visit.

2. Albaicin Quarter

Albaicin quarter with Moorish buildings on a hill above the Lower Town

The Moorish Quarter, part of the UNESCO list, is located on a hill. It is famous for its many ancient settlements: old Moorish houses (“carmen”), ancient baths with capitals and domes, workshops and shops. If you need souvenirs, you can buy items made by local craftsmen here. A very colorful and memorable place. It is thanks to such objects, which people come from all over the world to see, that hotels in Granada are never empty.

3. Sacromonte Quarter

The cave houses descend in terraces from all the hillsides of the Sacromonte quarter

Another distinctive quarter, this time gypsy. Don’t know what to see in Granada in 1 day, when you’re running out of time and still have few impressions? Come here! The caves in Sacromonte alone are worth it! Interesting fact: it was the Spanish gypsies who settled here who gave the world the legendary sparkling flamenco. Today, bright and impressive shows are staged in the crevices of the hill. A cave-museum here is dedicated to Gypsy culture and life. From the hill you can see the whole of Granada, including the red walls of the Alhambra.

4. Granada Cathedral

Granada Cathedral - a symbol of the victory of Christianity in Spain

The main cathedral of the city fully justifies its status both with its exterior and interior decoration, completely dotted with gilding. Going on a trip here , be sure to check it out here. You will be fascinated by the soaring carved columns, paintings by famous artists, the beauty and sound of two organs. Thanks to the huge stained glass windows and high vaults, the cathedral is always flooded with light. To the side of the cathedral is the Royal Chapel.

5. Basilica of St. John of God

Sculpture of John of God on the facade of the church

The Spaniards never spared money on the arrangement of holy places. Listing the main attractions of Granada briefly , It is worth remembering this basilica. Built in the Baroque style, it is lavishly decorated with gold and silver, decorated with beautiful altars, mirrors on the walls, and picturesque paintings. Don't be fooled by the massive, austere facade - the inside of the temple is very beautiful.

Feel the atmosphere of Granada in this beautiful video!

6. Abbey of Sacromonte

View of the Benedictine monastery on the “Holy Mountain”

The abbey is located on the top of the mountain of the same name, and only they will be able to most fully tell the very unusual history of this object. Travelers are advised to visit the museum here on site. The most valuable exhibit in it, besides paintings and sculptures, is the world's oldest map of Grenada. The abbey also includes a church, under which there are ancient catacombs.

7. Monastery of St. Jerome

Renaissance features of the royal monastery of St. Jerome

After the Spaniards recaptured the city from the Moors at the end of the 15th century, they persistently began Christianizing the conquered territories. We recommend visiting this monastery in Granada, which was the first to be built. The interior is impressive with a huge altar, generously decorated with relief images covering the entire wall. The courtyard is also beautiful. The style of construction is late Gothic, with the inclusion of marine motifs.

8. Carthusian monastery

Courtyard and orange garden of the Carthusian monastery

The monastery is located on the outskirts, but don’t let the distance scare you – it’s worth it. Despite the striking discrepancy between the modesty of the façade and the rich interior decoration, we recommend visiting this monastery. The interior is a true example of Spanish Baroque. There is a bench installed along the wall; sitting on it, you can admire the interior paintings of the domes and sculptures. Interesting collection of paintings. In some places, multi-colored marble is used in the decoration. No photography is allowed inside.

9. Granada Madrasah

Granada Madrasah - palace-university founded in the 14th century

If anyone is interested in Moorish art, we will advise you on what to visit in Granada. It was in this Madrasah that the Academy of Fine Arts found its refuge, while the changes hardly affected the prayer hall. The brightly painted stone patterns, Arabic mosaics and carved wooden ceilings are impressive here. The Royal Chapel and the Cathedral are nearby, so we recommend going there right away.

Sights of Granada: what else to visit inGranada

It doesn't matter for what purpose you went on a trip. Even if you don’t plan to stay here for a long time, we recommend that before you start, you look at the sights of Granada, photos with names and descriptions on the Internet and listen to your feelings. What object “hooked” you? What photo of a place made you want to get to know it better?

10. Arab baths

Tall stone structure with domed vaults in an Arab bath

11. Caravanserai Corral del Carbon

Courtyard surrounded by galleries at the Corral del Carbon caravanserai

It is also called the Coal Yard. In tourist reviews, the khon is described as an ancient building that was once an inn for merchants. Today tourists are greeted by an amazingly beautiful arch with stucco, in the shape of which the main entrance is made. The entrance hall, topped with a dome, leads to the courtyard. Three floors of the building are equipped with galleries with stone columns.

12. Park of Sciences

Science Park - a modern museum and experimental site Jose Jiménez López

This park can rightly be called . The authors of the project were able to construct an organic natural ecosystem with a comfortable layout of the landscape. It is convenient for visitors to view animals, birds (some of them live in open nature) and underwater fauna. The museums presented on the territory are equipped with interactive exhibits, and there is a planetarium. The variety in the exhibitions is amazing: it is interesting to look at modern robots and ancient steam engines, collections of butterflies and shells and man-made accidents, a museum of toxidermy and a bird show. Master classes and temporary exhibitions are held here.

13. Generalife Gardens

A long pool surrounded by flower beds, fountains and colonnades in the Generalife gardens

Do you want to see how the Moorish rulers rested, tired of the bustle of the city? In fact, visitors attribute the high rating to the gardens, since the residence itself is very modest. But a walk through the garden will surely impress anyone: bright fruit trees, beautiful oriental fountains, rare flowers, shady courtyards where you can sit on a bench, enjoying the splendor blooming around you. On the territory of the gardens there is a stage where concerts are held. Thanks to the large number of plantings, it is always cool here.

14. Viewpoint Mirador de San Nicolas

Beautiful view of the Alhambra from the Mirador de San Nicolas viewpoint

We’ll also advise where to go in Granada and admire the views of the city’s largest architectural landmarks. From here you have a magnificent view of the Generalife and the Alhambra, which rise on a nearby hill. The perimeter of the site is surrounded by old walls, from which it is convenient to view the surroundings. It is better to go here by transport, because... climbing on foot will be too long and difficult, especially in the heat.

15. Coal yard

Inner open courtyard with well, surrounded by galleries, in a 14th century inn -JvL-

A couple of minutes' walk from Granada Cathedral, the route passes through the Coal Court - the only surviving inn in Spain, the appearance of which has remained untouched for centuries. It was built back in the 14th century during the Nasrid era and at that time was in the possession of Muslims. There was a market in the courtyard, merchants stayed here, and later the courtyard was sold at auction and began to be used as a camp for coal miners - hence its name. Then the inn changed owners several times, and at the beginning of the last century it came into the possession of the state and was restored several times - the last time was quite recently, in 2006. The courtyard has a square shape and is surrounded by 3-story galleries; the interior of the interior halls is now equipped for office space. In addition, performances, conferences and flamenco performances are regularly held here.

16. Bib Rambla Square

Fountain and flower stalls in the central square of Spanish Granada Martin Furtschegger

The main city square, which was once the site of jousting tournaments and later Christian festivals and bullfights, is Bib Rambla, Granada. A 1-day itinerary should definitely include a visit to this iconic part of the city - you often end up here during an excursion after visiting the Cathedral. The location of the square was historical - the Alcazaria silk market, Madrasah and the city mosque were located nearby. Over the course of its 5-century history, Bib-Rambla repeatedly changed its appearance until it acquired its current appearance. Today, the whole life of Granada revolves around this place, and when visiting the interesting places of Granada, you will somehow end up in this square at some point in your journey through the city. On the lower floors of the historical buildings surrounding the square there are many restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. The center of the square is crowned by the 17th century Giants' Fountain with a marble sculpture of Neptune.

17. Royal Chapel

View of the Royal Chapel and the Cathedral in the center of Granada
Marble tombstones of the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella in the tomb of Javi Guerra Hernando

In terms of architectural monuments of antiquity, of particular interest is the ancient ensemble of buildings of the 9th century called Alhambra. Granada has another significant monument of particular historical value - the Royal Chapel, one of the most important shrines of Granada and all of Spain. The fact is that here are the burial places of two monarchs who played a huge role in the history of Spain - Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon. The completion of the Reconquista is associated with their names. At the beginning of the 16th century, Isabella issued a decree on the construction of the chapel, and after some time a beautiful structure was erected in the Flamboyant Gothic style on a foundation in the shape of a Catholic cross. The facade is interesting with the image of Isabella; at the entrance you are greeted by statues of two patrons of the chapel - John the Baptist and John the Evangelist. A key place inside the chapel is occupied by the tombstones of great royalty.

18. Bullring

Bullring of 3 floors in Granada Vitorino m

Despite the fact that the birthplace of spectacular bullfighting is Seville, attractions Granada also preserves the spirit of incendiary fights - one of such places is the Granada bullring. It must be said that the history of this competition goes back to the ancient past, when the Iberian Peninsula was inhabited by Iberian tribes. After the end of the Reconquista, brave warriors who had previously been able to show their strength in battles with the Moors now demonstrated their courage by fighting a bull. Over the years, bullfighting has become an official and regulated competition. In Granada, the bullring first opened in 1928 - it was a building in the neo-Mudéjar style, very original and elegant. Today this oh the best place where you should definitely go to get a taste of the excitement and feel the warlike soul of Spain. The three-story arena seats 14.5 thousand spectators, and the action takes place during the main Spanish holidays.

19. Rodriguez Acosta Foundation

Massive building from the 30s, gardens, terraces - Rodríguez Acosta Foundation in Granada Pepepitos

While the developed beach holiday infrastructure is offered to its guests by the sunny Malaga, attractions Granada preserves the richest cultural heritage of Spain. Thus, the building of the Rodriguez Acosta Foundation stands out from the background of other houses in Granada, where the works of a talented artist who worked at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries are stored. During a creative crisis, Rodriguez Acosta devoted himself to building a beautiful mansion that was designed to embody his aesthetic ideals. The interior interiors of the foundation are decorated with objects brought from different parts of the world - sculptures, drawings, and Greek ceramics. The building is surrounded by a garden with cypress trees and reproductions of ancient sculptures. In one of the courtyards you can even see a reproduction of Psyche, personifying the poet’s soul - it is presented in the form of ruins, which was probably explained by the period of the master’s creative crisis. From some corners of the garden there are wonderful panoramas of the old town in Granada.

20. San Vicente Estate

The house of the brilliant poet F. G. Lorca, surrounded by a cozy green garden, in the estate of San Vicente Alimanja

Downtown Granada tourist bus stops near the San Vicente Estate, oncebelonged to the great poet of Spain - Garcia Lorca. Here, surrounded by greenery and blooming orchids, the poetspent every summer for 10 years, where he created a number of famous works that became famous throughoutworld. From the balcony of his estate, Garcia admired the magnificent scenery of his city and relaxed withfriends. On one of these days, the poet was arrested and subsequently executed. The collection of the house-museum containssome of the poet's everyday items - some furniture can be seen, including his personala desk and piano, as well as a number of other memorabilia and drawings. Here you can see andan exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Lorca. There is also a shop with souvenir paraphernalia -bags, cups, T-shirts and magnets, complemented by books or drawings by the poet.

Complement this list of beauties with the friendliness and hospitality that the people of Granada surpass their counterparts from other Spanish cities, and you have the perfect option for your next trip. Read also about and get inspired for your further travel to Spain.

Only when you get to Granada and feel the harmony in which white houses merge here with brick-pink ancient architecture, and the azure sky with the emerald green mountain slopes, crowned with white caps of snow that does not melt even in summer, you can understand why this city has always been considered one of the most beautiful in Spain. It's not so much about the sights of Granada, but about the amazing, original atmosphere of the ancient narrow, winding streets, saturated with the aromas of orange and lemon trees.

About invaders and liberators

The history of the city as a Phoenician settlement of Iliberra begins long before our era. In those ancient times, it was under the rule of the Romans, Vandals and Byzantines. In the 6th century, as a result of the great migration of peoples that went down in history, started by the Visigoths, the city became part of the Iberian state they created.

In the 8th century, the settlement, along with most of the Iberian Peninsula, was captured by the Moors, who subsequently formed the Cordoba Caliphate in the conquered territories. Resistance to the invaders, which involved the northern regions of the peninsula - the kingdoms of Aragon, Castile and Navarre, marked the beginning of the Reconquista liberation movement.

As a result of incessant wars, the Cordoba Caliphate disintegrated in the 11th century into separate independent emirates, and after 2 centuries, the Muslim Moors had one last stronghold in Andalusia - the Emirate of Granada, which was in their power until the 15th century. The capital at that time bore the Arabic name - Kalat Garnata. Many of Granada's landmarks date back to that time.

As a result of a long siege of the city in 1492, the Islamic ruler of the Nasarid dynasty, Muhammad XII, capitulated to the combined forces of Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. Granada lost its position as a capital city, and subsequently its commercial and cultural importance decreased markedly.

After the expulsion of the Moors, who moved to North Africa to the territory of modern Morocco, the entire remaining Muslim population - Moriscos - was forcibly converted to Christianity. Today, Moroccans, descendants of their former owners, cross the Strait of Gibraltar in boats to hire Andalusian peasants for agricultural work. Apparently this is the will of Allah!

Western "Damascus"

“The star of Mohammed that fell to earth,” as Granada was called, shone for Muslims for eight centuries. It still bears the imprint of seclusion characteristic of Arab culture.

This is a city in which today, both in everyday life and in the minds of people, Islam and Catholicism, Spanish arrogance and refined Eastern sensuality coexist peacefully. Notice boards offer a mix of flamenco and belly dancing classes, and Moorish architecture houses icons of Jesus and the Virgin Mary.

Despite the fact that the Spaniards are ardent supporters of coffee, the eastern tradition of tea drinking has been preserved here.

Its rituals are observed by many local sitios, decorated in Moorish style, with an amazing backdrop to ancient Arabic architecture.

Albaicin – minarets converted into bell towers

On the slope of one of the hills that strew the foothills of the Serra Nevada mountain range, lies the most ancient landmark of Granada, which was once the city center - Albaicin district. This Moorish heritage is listed by UNESCO.

Numerous temples attract attention with their architecture. The bell towers of Catholic churches, called “iglesias” in Andalusia, were built in the late Middle Ages on Muslim minarets. This distinctive style is called Mudejar and is most often found in Spain.

Under the Moors, Albaicin was surrounded by a double row of fortress walls, of which now only isolated fragments and gates, built in the form of arches in the 11th century, remain.

• Puerta de Elvira

• Puerta de Monaita

• Puerta Nueva

Legend has it that through the main gate of Puerta de Elvira, Their Catholic Majesties Isabella and Ferdinand entered the city as winners.

The stone structure topped with eastern domes also attracts the attention of tourists. This El Bañuelo – Moorish baths.

Traditionally, they consist of 3 rooms. The first was rectangular in shape and contained bathtubs with cold water, the second, square and larger in area, contained bathtubs with warm water, and the third, main room contained bathtubs with hot water.

The interior decoration of the ancient hammam does not exactly correspond to the Moorish style: the columns supporting the vaulted ceilings are reminiscent of the Romanesque architecture present in Granada even before the arrival of the Moors.

The ancient residential buildings that have been preserved in Albaicin, surrounded by small gardens, bear the strange name “carmen”.

Unusual and a little mysterious, they create an amazing impression: as if time here once froze in place forever.

The last architectural wonder of the Moors - the Alhambra

At the top of al-Sabika hill, just opposite Albasiyin, lies the medieval palace complex of the Alhambra.

It includes:

• Nasrid Palaces;
• Generalife Gardens with summer palace;

It was built long before the reign of the Nasarid dynasty, but even today it is surrounded by powerful, high walls, and its towers, each of which has its own name, offer a magnificent view of the surrounding area.

Nasarid Palaces include 3 buildings.

In Mechoir Palace receptions, audiences and trials were held. This is the oldest part of the complex. Its walls, like those of other palaces, are decorated with Arabic openwork carvings on plaster.

In the Palace of Lions there were private chambers of the emirs. It was built in the 14th century under Muhammad V. Christian notes are woven into the Moorish style of this building. The guides claim that the emir’s friendship with King Pedro of Castile, nicknamed the Cruel, had this effect on him.

WITH Palace of Lions There are many legends associated with it. One of them claims that the Abencerrach family was beheaded in the palace hall; neither more nor less – 100 people. What crime led to the destruction of this family? Of course, love! One of the Abencerrachs dared to fall in love with the emir's concubine. In memory of the feelings of the daring young man, the hall is named after this executed family.

The central courtyard is decorated fountain in the form of 12 lions holding a huge twelve-sided bowl on their backs.

Another legend says that the number of royal beasts was not chosen by chance: 12 lions supported Solomon’s throne. And the emir learned about this from his Jewish vizier ibn Nagrella, who advised Muhammad to equal the biblical king in wisdom.

Palace Comares was the official residence of the Nasarid dynasty. In front of it is the Myrtle Courtyard, popular among tourists.

Majestic arches and jagged towers, as if in a mirror, are reflected in the water of a huge rectangular fountain, and the whole picture is reminiscent of an oriental fairy tale.

Here is the famous Golden room.

It got its name thanks to the inlaid carved ceiling made of wood and covered with gilding. The room was decorated already under the Spanish rulers; it embodies the best traditions of the Mudejar style. Once upon a time, the wife of Charles V, Queen Isabella of Portugal, stayed here.

Not in vain Generalife called "Gardens of Eden". Against the backdrop of the snowy peaks of the Serra Nevada, palm trees, cypresses and orange trees grow, near which there are flowering flower beds. And all this splendor is observed under the melodic murmur of water, shimmering in the splashes of fountains, breaking down in cascades and simply flowing along arranged channels.

The gardens look the same as the “gardens of paradise” described in the Koran.

It was built in the 16th century at the request of the king.

Charles V ordered the demolition of part of the Moorish buildings and in their place a new palace with an adjacent church to be built.

The structure was designed by Pedro Machuca, who studied the craft of an architect in Italy, perhaps even from Michelangelo himself. He is one of the few Spanish architects who managed to work in the mannerist style.

The massive building does not fit into the overall light architectural ensemble, but thanks to it, the Alhambra was not wiped off the face of the earth in the past.

Now the palace houses two art museums.

The skillful, almost jewelry-like work of Moorish architects, carved patterned windows, arches, vaults, graceful columns, carefully thought-out arrangement of courtyards, ponds, cascades and fountains - such a synthesis rightfully allows us to consider the Alhambra a masterpiece of Moorish architecture that has no analogues in Europe.

Granada Cathedral - the celebration of Christian victory

To perpetuate the triumph of the victory over the Moors, in Granada's medina, in 1518, it was decided to build a cathedral on the site of the mosque.

Note! Due to the duration of construction, which is as much as 200 years, there is a noticeable mixture of styles in the architecture of the cathedral.

The first architect of the cathedral was Enrique Egas, who strictly adhered to the Gothic style. But after a few years, control passed to Diego de Siloe; the Gothic style seemed too boring to him, and he diluted it with details in the spirit of the Renaissance. The cathedral was completed by the architect Alonso Cano. Being an adherent of classicism, he introduced his own stylistic features. Construction was completed in 1703.

The interior of the cathedral is designed in white and gold tones, which gives the room a special solemnity. Such famous artists as José de Ribera and El Greco worked on its design.

Its walls are decorated with numerous medallions and round windows - roses, and statues are installed on the cornices of the second tier. The walls are almost completely covered with decorative reliefs.

In the main chapel, called the Royal Chapel, rests ashes of victorious kings: Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. These rulers are highly revered in Spain.

For those who have not seen Granada...

Poems by Federico Garcia Lorca, who was born here, are dedicated to Granada, who wrote that this city was created for music, and everything in it sings, even fountains and foliage of trees, and those who have not seen Granada have not seen anything at all.

Video

Exciting flamenco to the sounds of a soul-tearing Spanish guitar, the fading heart of a matador; the Islamic spirit hovering within the walls of the Alhambra, the hot sun and snow... Bright, emotional, contradictory, delightful Granada with a subtle aroma of oriental incense in the air.

Of course, this is a city that you need to visit at least once in your life. Incredible in beauty and number of historical places and architectural structures, infinitely friendly, very original and at the same time quite modern tourist center, where it is almost always sunny, spectacular and incredibly tasty.

Let's get our bearings. Location and climate of Granada

Granada is located in the south of Spain, in the Sierra Nevada mountainous region, at an altitude of 700 m above sea level. In summer the weather is pleasant here - +25. It can, of course, get a little hot (it reaches +35). In winter it’s also a plus: 5-6 degrees. During the day the temperature difference is quite noticeable. And this is a good reason to “walk” your entire resort and holiday wardrobe. And let’s face it, there are a lot of holidays in Granada. So, even inveterate lovers of tranquility here want to feel involved in a colorful show of good mood.

The sun in Granada in summer is bright and baking. Therefore, it is imperative to take products that protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation with you! For fans of the ski resort, Granada is ideal: 32 km from the city there is a famous holiday destination called Sierra Nevada. The best time to come for snowmobiling and feel yourself in the grip of a winter fairy tale is from March to December.

Let's get settled. Choosing accommodation in Granada

Granada has a completely democratic approach to the issue of settling its international tourists. Where you want to live: in a historic 17th-century mansion or in a medieval castle, a friendly family-type hotel or a youth hostel in the city center - depends only on your personal desires and capabilities. The main thing is that when choosing a hotel, you focus on your personal route for future trips. The fact is that the city “sins” with steep descents and ascents. This is undoubtedly a good strength load for the legs, but not for the older generation or children. Although, who’s stopping you from using a comfortable bus for €1.5?

Let's refresh ourselves. Features of local cuisine

The issue of nutrition is being resolved in Granada with the same multilateral approach. There are cafes and restaurants with reasonable prices and a high level of service, as well as oriental sweets and real Arabic coffee. Granada has real Arab neighborhoods. In such places you can try mint tea with lemon or order, for example, a Moroccan meat dish with vegetables, nuts and a lot of aromatic spices.

The hallmark of Spanish cuisine is: gazpacho soup, fried fish combined with various seafood in all kinds of culinary variations, tortilla, remojon salad, tapas appetizer and sangria as a drink. For dessert - almond or honey cookies, pressed figs, polvorones, fried pumpkin pies and, of course, Andalusian wines.

Don't be surprised if you order alcohol and are offered a free snack. This is a tradition that dates back to medieval times. Overall food prices are average. Dinner will cost you about €15-30.

If you want to get acquainted with the national Spanish cuisine or try something similar, or just relax in a hookah bar and eat delicious food - in Granada all your desires can be fulfilled in one sitting.

Attractions. The main feature of Granada

Granada is one of the last cities liberated from Arab rule. Therefore, many objects inherited from the Moorish era have been preserved here. The most famous is the Alhambra Castle. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Millions of tourists come here every year to visit this impressive museum of Arab culture. It began to be built by Muslims in the 13th century and this action lasted, as often happens in history, for several centuries. The result is a combination of several eras that were reflected in the architecture of the castle. The complex consists of a fortress, palaces, museums and a park area with green gardens and alleys. You can get to this place by booking a tour. It costs €50, which includes transfer to the complex, entrance fees, a three-hour excursion with a non-Russian speaking guide, and some free time to catch your breath. By the way, children under seven years old are admitted free of charge.

The second attraction is located next to the Alhambra - the former residence of the Moorish monarchs of the Generalife. It is also included in the UNESCO list and is an architectural medieval complex with a palace and beautiful gardens. They are considered the oldest surviving gardens from the Moorish era.

The third famous landmark of Granada that cannot be ignored is the current Cathedral. It was built in honor of the victory over the Arabs on the site where a mosque used to stand. The Cathedral has a museum of paintings by Isabella, whose ashes rest in the local tomb along with other royals. We recommend taking a guide with you so that the walls of this majestic historical monument come to life in your imagination, and fragments from the past appear before your eyes. Entrance to the cathedral is €4, to the royal chapel – €3.5.

In the north of the city there is a Carthusian monastery. It took almost half a century to build! It is famous for its treasury of black and red marble. The walls here are also made of marble. A very beautiful Gothic structure with fancy Baroque architectural elements.

Continuing the religious theme, we will mention another beautiful historical and cultural monument - the Sacramonte Abbey. At the place where it now stands, the remains of the murdered Saint Cecilio, the patron saint of the city, were once burned. In the local museum there is a furnace in which other martyrs for the faith were killed. In this place you can also get acquainted with the ancient map of the city, paintings and sculptures of Granada. Entrance €3.5.

Corral del Carbon is a very interesting building. This is the only ancient Arab hotel in Europe that has survived to this day with a market nearby.

In general, you can walk around the city for an infinitely long time. Wherever you wander, a curious cultural object will surely appear in front of you, keeping the secrets of past centuries. Be it the main Albaicin Mosque or the Frederico García Lorca Museum, an Arabic coffee shop with tapas bars, a hammam with an excellent tea room next door or a lively market selling fresh vegetables and fruits...

Entertainment. Cultural and not so

The most popular entertainment in Granada are bullfighting and flamenco. To attend bullfights, it is advisable to book tickets in advance. Otherwise, instead of €30, you will have to pay three times as much.

There is an interesting place in the suburbs of Granada. It's called Sacromonte. There are many caves here, where gypsies settled since the 16th century. Many have not yet left these places, but they live here in a “modern” way. Some caves have been converted into original bars and restaurants. It is in Sacromonte that the best flamenco performances are held. By the way, the first lady of America herself came here once.

One of the buildings of the former theater today houses the popular club Granada 10. And at Pata Palo you can have fun in the Spanish style: salsa and the “crush” typical of Spanish youth are guaranteed. You won’t be bored in this city after midnight: there are a lot of nightlife establishments here.

If you're passing through at the end of autumn, stop by for a look. The Jazz Music Festival takes place every November.

How to get there. Three options

You can fly to Granada by plane. A small airport is located 17 km from the city. Often tourists prefer to first land in the neighborhood, where a large international airport is located, and then get to their final destination by land. The third way is traditional: fly to one of the cities in Spain and transfer to a flight to Granada.

On the track

A few nuances that will not allow you to ruin your mood on vacation:

• Local residents speak English poorly. So try to learn a couple of simple phrases like “how much does it cost?” or take a phrasebook with you. If a situation arises in which you need outside help, try to turn to the younger generation: there is a chance that they speak English.
• There are many gypsies and Arabs in Granada. As we already know, this is due to the historical past of the city. Keep your bag, money, documents with you. It is better to leave valuables in the safe, which is located in your personal hotel room (we are talking about 4* hotels). And if necessary, which is unlikely to arise, present a photocopy of your passport or a document that has less value (a discount card with your data, a student ID).
• Smoking in Spain is allowed in designated areas. Setting up a smoke screen at public stops, in parks and in front of a person passing by is prohibited. Some hotels have smoking rooms.
• In the center of Granada there are two large hospitals with decent service and doctors who understand English.
• From 14.00 to 17.00 shops are closed. The exception is large shopping centers.
  Taxis can be found either at a special parking lot or caught in the city. If the car is free, its display lights up green or the inscription “libre” is on.
• As a memorable souvenir, we recommend buying a Spanish guitar made by local craftsmen.

Aftertaste

Granada is an ideal destination for history buffs, creative people and young people. And, of course, for those who like to actively relax, doing winter sports.

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One day in Granada. What can you see in Granada if you are in the city for just one day? What are the most interesting sights? Granada is one of the most beautiful provincial cities in Spain, which has retained its individuality over many centuries. The Spaniards named Granada the most beautiful city in the country in 2016.

Holidaying at any time of the year on the Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca, you can always find one day to visit Granada. A lot has been written about this city; the legendary Alhambra (the main attraction of Spain) has great fame among tourists.

A little history

Granada, Grenada, ... Remember the famous poems of Mikhail Svetlov? These poems were written about Granada, the Granada in Spain. With its capture, Christians celebrated the victory of the Cross over the Crescent; history announced the end of Western European Islam and the Middle Ages. After the surrender of Granada, there was no more land where people professing different religions knew how to negotiate and simply live side by side. With the capture of Granada came another expulsion of the Jews, the discovery of America and the strengthening of the Spanish Inquisition.

Until the end of the 15th century, Granada was a Moorish city, “heaven on earth,” “a piece of heaven that fell to earth.” This is what the Moors called Granada, who ruled here for 800 years, who turned it into a thriving oasis, who created an amazing culture and created the era called the Nasrid. In the 16th century, Granada became the center of Christian history. The Catholic Kings - Isabella and Ferdinand, and then their grandson Carlos V, are trying to turn it into the capital of a new empire that united half of Europe and open America, “on which the sun never sets.”

Albayzin Arab Quarter

Viewpoint of St. Nicholas

If time allows and you already have tickets to visit the Alhambra, then first visit. How to get there. From the New Square (Plaza Nueva) or from the Cathedral (Catedral, Gran Via de Colon) there is a small shuttle bus C1 (Albayzin), stop Mirador de San Nicolas. Enter the bus at the front door, fare 1 ,20; pay the fare from the driver). A taxi ride from Plaza Nueva will cost only 5-6 euros.

The Arab quarter of Albayzin is the quarters of the old city. Here, in the 6th century BC, the Phoenicians founded the settlement of Iltruir, then the Roman settlement of Illiberi, and the Muslim settlement of Kalat Garnatha. Albayzin in the past was a prosperous Arab city: mosques, schools, houses of the nobility, cobbled streets, fountains, wells, markets, workshops... And today it is a quarter of Granada, where palaces of the local nobility, estates of wealthy Granadians, Catholic monasteries and modern hippie shacks.

Patio Carmena

You can get acquainted with the Albayzin estate, which history gave the name “carmen” (not to be confused with the female name Cármen), and that each carmen, like a street, has its own name, by visiting the carmen museum “Museo Max More” (Camino Nuevo de San Nicolás , 12, 18010 Granada Opening hours: Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 13.30 and 16.00 - 18.00)

The observation deck of St. Nicholas is the most popular place among tourists visiting Granada. The observation deck offers amazing views of the Alhambra and Granada. A popular photo - the Red Alhambra Castle against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada - is taken here. On the observation deck there is sometimes flamenco dancing or local gypsy performers performing. Be careful when you are on the observation deck, there are different people hanging out.

You can go down from Albaicin to the historical center to the Cathedral along Cuesta de San Gregorio.

Royal Chapel

Royal Chapel

The era of the first half of the 16th century was marked by the great construction of temple architecture. In the historical center of the city, even if you are in Granada for just one day, be sure to take a look. The great monarchs Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabela of Castile, Juana the Mad and Philip the Handsome of Habsburg are buried here. In the Chapel Museum you will be pleasantly surprised by a collection of Flemish, Italian, and Spanish paintings from the 15th century that belonged to Queen Isabella. (Calle Oficios, Monday - Saturday 10.15 - 18.30, Sunday and holidays 11.00 - 18.30. Ticket price 5 euros).

Next to the chapel stands the Granada Cathedral, which also deserves attention. If you are a fan of El Greco, then in the cathedral you can get acquainted with the artist’s work “Saint Francis”. (Monday - Saturday 10.00 - 18.30, Sunday 15.00 - 18.00, ticket price 5 euros

From the Arab past, the following have been preserved: the Alcazaria Arab market, the House of Coal (formerly an Arab hotel), and a madrasah. These attractions are located near the Cathedral.

From 13.00 to 15.30 it is time for lunch. There are many restaurants and restaurants in the center. The best of them is Real Asador de Castilla (Plaza Gamboa 10), which is located near the Hesperia Granada hotel and not far from the monument to Christopher Colub and Isabela of Castile.

Alhambra

Alhambra

And, of course, even one day in Granada should not be left without a visit to the Alhambra, a unique architectural monument of Arab-Spanish architecture of the Middle Ages. A visit to this monument must be planned in advance: buy tickets online on the website of the Patronato of the Alhambra //tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/ Pay special attention to the time of the visit (entrance is indicated separately).

You can only purchase tickets on the day of your visit at the Alhambra box office. During the high tourist season - spring and autumn, during the Christmas holidays - the number of tickets is limited, so you need to get in line early in the morning.

This is how eventful and interesting your day that you decide to spend in Granada can turn out to be. Believe me, this city is worth setting aside one day of your vacation. The Spaniards say: “Whoever has not seen Granada has not seen Spain.”

This is also interesting:

Granada is a Spanish city that is the capital of the province of the same name, which is part of Andalusia. The favorable location and fertile lands allow scientists to say that life on the territory of modern Granada existed long before the appearance of the city of Iliberra recorded in Iberian sources in 500 BC.

Iberians, Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Visigoths, Moors, Berbers, Spaniards - at different stages of its development, Granada belonged to each of these nationalities. This is precisely the reason that there are many architectural monuments in the city, and they are also very different.

Thus, the luxurious ensemble of architectural and park art, the Alhambra, is one of the most striking monuments of the period of Moorish rule, both in Granada itself and throughout Spain. It was built in the 14th century and was a truly grandiose structure. Two centuries later, King Charles V of Spain issued a decree to erect a palace on the site of the Alhambra, which partially absorbed the buildings of the Moors. Until now, excavations at these sites have not been carried out only because the Spaniards honor the memory of their king and do not want to destroy the palace built on his orders.

Calendar of cheap flights to Granada

Attractions in Granada

Red Alhambra Castle (Alhambra)

In many guidebooks, the Alhambra is called one of the wonders of the world. This architectural complex was built in the 14th century. The emirs of Granada lived in the Alhambra. The castle itself was a huge complex, in which, in addition to the fortress, there were gardens, houses, baths and even a cemetery.

Address Alhambra Castle

18009 Granada, Spain

Generalife - country residence of the emirs(Generalife)

Generalife in XIII-XIV served as a suburban residences of the emirs. It was originally connected to the Alhambra complex. In addition to the marvelous palace, the Generalife also has a perfectly preserved garden, which was designed in such a way that it symbolizes paradise.

Address Generalife

C/ Real de la Alhambra, s/n 18009

Sacramonte - district of Granada(Sacromonte)

R Sacramonte is located three kilometers from the city of Granada. It is believed that gypsies originally lived there and created the passionate flamenco dance. The area then became a refuge for fugitive criminals who hid in caves created in the mountains. Today flamenco is danced in these caves.

Address Sacramonte

Calle Verea de Enmedio

Albaicin Quarter (Barrio del Albayzin)

Albaicin is a wonderful example of a Moorish quarter, the main period of development of which was in the 13th-14th centuries. Today, walking around the neighborhood, you can see the original houses of that era, as well as admire many attractions, such as the Church of St. Salvador.

Abbey of Sacromonte(Abadia del Sacromonte)

The Abbey of Sacromonte has an amazing history. In 1594, the relics of the disciples of Saint Thesiphon were found at this place, after which believers erected more than 1000 crosses on the mountain. As a result, at the beginning of the 17th century, construction began on the church, which was then rebuilt several times, and the abbey was founded.

Address abbeys

Paseo del Sacromonte, 4

Granada Coal Yard(Corral del Carbone)

The coal yard is a place where merchants who traded coal stayed; there was also a market in its yard. The building was built back in the 14th century. This monument of Arab architecture is interesting for its details, including the stucco molding on the entrance arch that deserves special attention.

Address Coal yard

Calle Mariana Pineda, 12

Navas street(Calle Navas)

It is impossible to imagine Spain without its colorful national cuisine, including such dishes as tapas, which means a variety of hot or cold snacks to accompany drinks. You can try the best tapas on Navas Street in hospitable cafes and restaurants.

Granada Cathedral (Catedral de Granada)

Granada was considered a key city for Muslims in Spain. When the Reconquista ended, it was decided to build a grandiose cathedral in Granada. It was erected on the site of a former mosque, which was supposed to symbolize the triumphant success of Christianity.

Address cathedral

Gran Via de Colon, 5

Monastery of Saint Jerome(Monasterio de San Jeronimo)

The territory of Granada was under Muslim rule for a long time. During the Reconquista, Spanish lands were gradually conquered by Christians from the Moorish emirates. The construction of the monastery of St. Jerome was supposed to help the more successful and rapid spread of Christianity.

Address monastery

Calle Rector Lopez Argüeta, 9

Grenada Science Park(Parque de las Ciencias)

One of the most interesting modern attractions of Granada can be called the Science Park. Here you can learn about the structure of the earth and the human body, visit the planetarium, observatory and butterfly garden, and take part in amazing scientific experiments.

Address parka

Avd. de la Ciencias

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Granada city center(174 hotels)