When you have ever been to the Spanish city of Granada, you will certainly have seen the impressive Alhambra. This building is an ancient fortress that remains one of the city’s most remarkable attractions today. Learn the most interesting facts about this palace in the top 10 facts about the Alhambra.
10. The beginning was made by the Romans
Before the Alhambra was built, the Romans had already established a small settlement at this location. That changed when the Moors came to power in this Spanish region. They conquered the area and immediately saw that this spot was perfect for a tactical fortress. It took years before the building was finally completed, as it was not finished until the fourteenth century.
9. It has been constantly renovated
When you visit the Alhambra today, you will see a historic fortress. However, you do not see how the palace originally looked. Over the years, there have been continuous renovations and expansions at the Alhambra. Some parts of the building date back to the ninth century, while there are also rooms that were only built in the fourteenth century. This allows you to clearly see how architecture has changed over the years.
8. There are thousands of inscriptions to be found
During a tour of the Alhambra, it is worth taking a close look at the walls and ceilings. They are not only decorated with numerous ornate ornaments but are also almost all inscribed. Arabic script can be found in various places in the fortress. The builders of the palace decorated the walls with poems, personal wishes, and passages from the Quran.
7. Just one palace for two religions
Originally, the Alhambra was built by the Moors, who followed the Islamic faith. Most of this palace is therefore decorated with symbols associated with this faith. This changed when the Alhambra was taken over by a Catholic ruler in 1492. He immediately ensured that parts of the palace were modified so that it was possible to practice the Christian faith in the building as well.
6. Intentional imperfections were made
During the construction of the Alhambra, Islamic norms were adhered to. This means that it was not allowed to strive for perfection, as this would be an insult to God. Therefore, here and there, you will see some decorations that are not as perfect as you might expect. Think, for example, of geometric shapes that are not entirely symmetrical and parts of the palace that are not as lavishly decorated.
5. It is one of the largest Spanish attractions
Spain has many remarkable buildings, but the Alhambra is one of the most popular in the country. The fortress welcomes more than 6,000 visitors daily, making it one of the most visited attractions in Spain. Therefore, it is always wise to arrange your tickets well in advance, or you risk not being allowed to enter the fortress.
4. Part of it was destroyed
When the French occupied Spain, they destroyed part of this centuries-old palace. They mainly did this with bombs, which destroyed large sections of the building. Locals worked hard to renovate the building as much as possible until the late nineteenth century. Entire walls had to be rebuilt, and authentic tiles and historical inscriptions had to be replaced.
3. It was originally white
After the construction of the Alhambra, it was decided to make all the walls white. It was hoped that this would help preserve the building, as well as the artworks in the Alhambra. Over the years, the color changed because the sun slowly but surely turned the palace its famous red color.
2. It has an ancient cooling system
When you walk through the Alhambra, you will notice that there are fountains and pools everywhere. This has an important reason. This water ensured that life in the palace did not get too hot. Residents could always find cooling in the water, and the water also made the inner gardens feel cooler.
1. The tiled walls are mathematical marvels
There are a total of 17 wallpaper groups, and in the Alhambra, you can find them all in the beautiful Islamic ornaments on the palace walls. A mathematical marvel, especially for that time!
