La Alhambra, Part 1 of 3

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The name Alhambra means "Red Castle." Built for military purposes, it contains a fortress (or alcazaba), a palace (or alcázar), and a small city (or medina). The oldest parts of the complex date to the 9th century. The current realization as fortress-palace-city dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. The Alhambra is situated atop a mountain, giving it a fabulous view of the surroundings. Alhambra fell into Christian hands in 1492 when Granada was conquered. Later, Emperor Charles V built a palace inside the complex.

Map showing the fortress (left), palaces, and large gardens (in green).

Detail of a colorful column.

     

Windows of distinctive Moorish design.

Wall decorations.

Ceiling.

Detail of ceiling.

         

Decorated alcove.
       

The Court of the Lions.

The four rivers of Paradise (see Genesis, Ch. 2, and the Qur'an).

Twelve lions suppport the central fountain.