Granada is a city situated in the south-east of Andalucia
and lies at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Set between two hills, the
Albayzin and the Alhambra, Granada is a beautiful city full of history.
Granada´s most internationally known monument is the Alhambra, which is located
on the Alhambra hill. It was the palace-fortress of the Nasrid Sultans, rulers
of the last Spanish Moorish kingdom, and in its construction Moorish art reached
a spectacular and serene climax.
It is one of the most exciting, sensual and romantic of all European monuments
and the most visited in Spain with more than 2 million visitors each year.
The Albaycin, which is situated on the opposite hill, was the Moorish quarter
enclosed by immense walls to protect the people within. This enclosed area
was called Alcazaba and eventually became too small for the growing population
and the inhabitants started to build their houses outside the city walls.
The Arabian influence has left numerous monuments, a moorish quarter, gardens
(Generalife), Moorish mansions (Corral del Carbón and Casa de los Tiros),
Moorish public baths, dozens of squares, fountains and a history full of magic
and enchantment.
South from Granada rise the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, a startling backdrop
to the city, snowcapped for much of the year and offering skiing from November
until late May. The coast is a short drive from Granada where one can enjoy
the tropical fruits and beautiful beaches.
