Spain's Alhambra is a lesson to us all about the power and beauty of simplicity and the importance of blending architecture with nature. In a beautiful hilltop setting of natural gardens, this haven for Sultans that dates back to 1238 takes you into another world - where architecture joins with nature to create one of the world's wonders.
If you are thinking he must mean like the clipped, formal gardens at Versailles in France - think again. No this is a garden that nature intended - fun of flowers, trees, pines, roses - all allowed to contribute to a wonderful backdrop for the buildings and palaces. So, as you stroll about the site (not for people with walking difficulties i am afraid) - heading as untold numbers of diplomats, government officials and even citizens did to see the almighty Sultan - you pass beautifully crafted windows time and time again with breathtaking views over these lovely gardens. Water also plays a vital part in the original plan.
Beautiful little fountains are everywhere - and just before the entrance to the Suntan's reception room - a long pool reflects the beauty of the entire scene. Stand behind in the Kings Hall and behold the wonder of it all. Our trip up and back from Malaga took three hours - and with the tickets and guide was costly - but the experience was priceless.
Fiona* writes:
Today we drove to Granada and spent several hours exploring The Alhambra that I remember reading about as a youngster and hoping I'd see one day. I don't know why it's taken us so long to get here but thrilled we finally experienced it.
Every way you turn is a beautiful 'picture' through arabesque windows, through screens, through gardens, through archways and pathways...even a forest. Behind us the mighty Sierra Nevada acted like a defence wall. It must have been glorious in its day when this palace was populated and furnished. I could imagine a sultana reclining on cushions, eating sweet treats and gazing out of her special balcony across the city.
Granada means pomegranate and is the symbol of the city, famous for its Grenadine.
The Catholic monarchs adopted the pomegranate as their official emblem when they finally overthrew the last Muslim ruler. It took just a matter of weeks for the invasion of the Arabs and Berbers to conquer Spain. It took the Christians another 800 or so years to claim it back.
So much history to absorb! A day isn't enough but it was marvellous, as was our guide. Anyone looking to do a private tour to this UNESCO site should use Juan Antonio. I'll put details into the newsletter for anyone interested. His English is perfect and his knowledge enormous.
* Fiona McIntosh is an English-born, internationally bestselling Australian author known for her historical adventure novels, fantasy fiction, and a crime series featuring DCI Jack Hawksworth. She has sold well over a million books worldwide across various genres.
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