Hiding behind forestry and sitting amid the foothills lies the beautiful and historical castle-like Islamic structure, the Alhambra (an Arabic word meaning The Red One).
One main reason I chose to study in Granada compared to the other cities was the opportunity to live in a historically-rich setting; the Alhambra dates back to the 9th century! Since then, it has been ignored, renovated, and rebuilt in the 13th century. I literally was standing in a monumental piece of history.
My explanations do no justice to give you a descriptive idea of what the Alhambra is like— you MUST visit yourself!
The common characteristics of the Alhambra are BEAUTIFUL gardens (the Generalife), fountains, palaces, and courtyards with walls adorned with intricate, symbolic, geometrical mosaics. Inscribed into them are Arabic poems that praise the beauty of the palace.
The Generalife
One interesting story was told about the history of the Court of the Lions (Patio de los Leones). In the center stands the Fountain of Lions, which is surrounded by 12 lion figures symbolizing perfection, power, and strength. What's unique about these lions was that there was something different about each one. At the edge of the fountain is a poem inscribed by Arab-Andalusian poet Ibn Zamrak, reflecting on the beauty of the courtyard and lion fountain.
The Court of Lions
I'm leaving the rest of the photos from the Alhambra in my Photos Gallery. CHECK IT OUT!!!! You should know it was FREEZING when we went, so my hands eventually lost feeling and I had to stop taking photos. I would love to go back when it is a lot nicer and warmer so I can enjoy the experience even better.