The
city of Granada is the jewel in the crown of the Spanish southern region of
Andalusia. This city is mostly known for its architecture, which ranges from
Arab buildings to large Catholic churches.
Explore the Alhambra
The
Alhambra is one of the most visited places in Spain. This ancient fortress is
the symbol of this city, a structure renown for its beauty that was built by
the Moors. It was the residence of the Nasrid sultans, and on its territory you
will find the Nasrid palaces. Take a tour around these palaces, filled with
pieces of art and murals, and get lost in the many courtyards and patios
decorated with fragrant plants and water fountains.
Tour the Generalife
After
visiting the palaces, head to the Generalife gardens, a set of large gardens
located on the Cerro del Sol Hill. From here you will be able to enjoy views
towards the city.
Walk around the city center
Walking
around the city center you will find many traditional whitewashed house,
cobblestone streets and square filled with terraces. North of the river stands
the Cathedral, which was built on the site of an ancient mosque. Inside the
Cathedral you will find many chapels, most of them decorated with sculptures of
saints. The one chapel you must not miss is the Royal Chapel, the place where
the Catholic Kings Isabel and Ferdinand are buried. At the foot of the Alhambra
and a short walk away from the cathedral you will find the Bañuelo, a set of
ancient Arab baths worth visiting.
Visit the Albaycin and Scromonte
districts
Located
near the Alhambra, these two neighbourhoods are filled with history. Make sure
to book a hotel
in Granada in advance in order to be able to stay in the Albaycin,
where many of the hotels have views towards the Alhambra. By staying in this
area, you will be able to walk to most of the city’s main landmarks. The
Albaycin is located on a hill, offering views of the city. The Sacromonte
district is a traditionally gypsy district, with narrow streets and caves that
have been transformed into flamenco bars.
Enjoy the city’s tapas
Granada
might be known for its architecture and its history - and yet its food scene
should not be overlooked. The tradition of tapeo,
going out for tapas, is common in
this city, where the tapas are known
for their generous sizes. For each round of beer and wine you order, you will
get a complimentary dish of tapas.
These can range from Spanish meatballs albóndigas
and patatas a lo pobre potatoes
cooked in olive oil with peppers to gambas
al pil-pil shrimps cooked in olive oil and garlic and calamares fritos deep fried squid.
Contributed by: Marina Sukhoparova _____________________________________________________________________________________________
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