Overview
The magic of this UNESCO World Heritage Site cannot be imagined.
There is no bigger draw for visitors to the Costa del Sol than Alhambra. Inland about 2 hours from Almeria, the Red Castle, or Alhambra, is one of the most remarkable fortresses ever built. Its commanding views of the town, the mountains, the hillside, and gardens are indescribable.
The period of its construction was one of high sophistication during the Nasrid or Granda architecture of 14C to 15C. The masterpiece was not as innovative in actual architecture, but its designs of stucco and ceramic cover walls, doorframes, and windows were masterful. The surrounds of doors and windows became the focal point for every room's design and the spaces between them were filled by perfectly proportioned panels. Arch outlines were simplified and its stilted round arch became the norm for the time, along with the detailed lacework ornamentation used as borders.
All the stylistic elements that had been created and developed during eight centuries of Muslim rule in the Peninsula, including the Caliphate horseshoe arch, the Almohad sebka (a grid of rhombuses), the Almoravid palm, and unique combinations of them, as well as innovations such as stilted arches and muqarnas (stalactite ceiling decorations) are integrated into the architecture. Though the exterior of the fortress is not decorative, the interior vastly makes up for that.
Alhambra's Islamic palaces, as we know them today, were built for the last Muslim emirs in Spain and the court of the Nasrid dynasty. After being allowed to fall into disrepair for centuries, Alhambra was rediscovered in the 19th century by European scholars and travelers. Restorations began. It is now one of Spain's major tourist attractions, exhibiting the country's most significant and well known Islamic architecture, together with 16th century and later Christian building and garden interventions. Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the inspiration for many songs and stories.
To tour this famous piece of history is worth the ride, but you must be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to understand the significance of this monument and its place in the history of Andalusia and Spain. Your tour will include the Generalife Gardens, an amazing extension of the outlying buildings connected to the Alhambra. This small villa, called the Palacio de Generalife, is of as much interest as Alhambra itself.
- Alhambra entrance fees of 20€ are not included.
- The interior of Alhambra requires easy walking.
- Please dress comfortably.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 08:00 AM, duration: 9 hours
- 09:00 AM, duration: 9 hours
