Travel to Granada: A Guide to Spain’s Architectural Capital

Travel to Granada: A Guide to Spain’s Architectural Capital

Granada is a city steeped in rich culture and storied history, making it a must-see destination for anybody visiting Spain. Located in Andalusia, along with cities like Sevilla, Malaga, and Cordoba, Granada is seen by many as being the Iberian peninsula’s architectural capital. It plays host to countless incredible gems that you need to really see to believe.

Whether you’re a fan of gothic and renaissance architecture, want to learn more about the city’s Arabic lineage, or simply want to learn more about one of Spain’s lesser-known cities, Granada has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey, telling you everything you need to know before you book your next trip — which you’ll be itching to do after this!

Understanding Granada’s Rich History

If you really want to appreciate Granada and its unique charm, you must first understand its history. With strong Moorish roots and Renaissance period inspirations, Granada is a true melting pot that has had an evident influence on its architecture and traditions. This has made Granada a popular destination for tourists eager to learn about this historic mix. So, whether you’re a history buff or an art collector, Grenada will welcome you with open arms. Whether you fly in via a private jet charter if you’re visiting on a business trip or enter the city on a leisurely road trip with your friends and family, you won’t be disappointed by the beautiful ice white buildings and tall forestry which surrounds them.

The Moorish Influence on Granada

Standing as one of the clearest examples of Granada’s Moorish history, the Alhambra is arguably the city’s most incredible landmark. The Alhambra is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Islamic architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking details, such as hand-made carvings. A leisurely stroll through the Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Gardens will take you back, helping you imagine life as a wealthy or influential citizen during the Nasrid dynasty.

Translated as “the red one” in Arabic, the Alhambra was built as a fortress in the 9th century AD but was later transformed into a royal palace by the Nasrid dynasty. Their empire ruled over Granada for almost 300 years. During that time, the city underwent a process of Islamification, which explains the surge in Islamic art and architectural styles within the Alhambra and the surrounding area.

Granada’s Role in the Spanish Renaissance

Looking beyond Granada’s Moorish history, it’s clear that the Renaissance played a vital role in the city’s evolution and development. Built in the 16th century, Granada’s landmark cathedral is a clear example of Spanish Renaissance architecture and design, featuring intricate sculptures and breathtaking chapels within. This cathedral highlights just show how much the city has changed over just a few hundred years, going from the celebrated seat of an Islamic empire to becoming a shining light within the Christian Spanish Renaissance movement.

The cathedral served as a symbol of the Catholic Church’s literal and spiritual victory over the Moors and their growing Islamic following, helping to establish Christianity as the Iberian peninsula’s dominant religion. The cathedral is incredibly grand in almost every way, and while there are other examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture in the city, none do it quite as well as the city’s special cathedral. What’s more, it’s also home to the Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II, are buried.

Must-Visit Attractions in Granada

If you’re planning a trip to Granada, make sure that you visit these and the many other incredible landmarks and attractions around the city. Here’s our list of the top things to see and do.

The Alhambra: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

As we mentioned earlier, the Alhambra is a cornerstone of what makes Granada such an incredible place to visit and is undoubtedly the shining jewel in Granada’s crown. Complete with lush gardens, beautifully decorated palaces, and viewpoints that provide great sights of the city, the Alhambra will leave you in awe. In order to fully appreciate Granada and the Alhambra itself, you should try to book your tickets in advance as it’s a very popular spot that attracts many tourists.

The Sacromonte

As you continue exploring Granada, you’ll be sure to stumble upon the Sacromonte neighborhood, which is located in Valparaiso Hill, in the northeast of Albaicin. This formerly gypsy-dominated neighborhood is famous for its troglodyte houses, also known as “Cuevas.” These hillside homes are now open to the public and are known to host local cultural events, such as flamenco dance shows.

If you want to learn more about this unique neighborhood, including its history and the traditions of the local gypsy population, you can visit the Cuevas del Sacromonte museum. If you prefer to be on the move, you can opt for a guided tour of the Sacromonte Abbey and the catacombs within. During this time, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the Alhambra, including the Albaicin and Sacromonte neighborhoods.

The Hidden Gems of the Albaicin District

The Albaicin neighborhood is special in almost every way, well-known for its narrow streets and winding alleys. It’s also UNESCO-listed, largely due to the traditionally whitewashed houses and traditional squares that are still cultural hotspots today. The narrow alleys attract interest and beg to be explored — as you do so, keep an eye out for hidden courtyards and traditional teahouses, where you can enjoy a cup of flavourful and aromatic Moroccan tea.

Planning Your Trip

As we’re sure you know by now, Granada is a must-see city for anyone planning a trip to Spain and, more specifically, Andalusia. Remember to leave enough time for you to truly appreciate the city and its many quirks, and take care when choosing your accommodation — each part of the city has its own unique charm and style. If there are any spots you think we’ve missed, get in touch and let us know. 

Featured Image: Source: User 12019, via Pixabay