From the Alhambra to the Albaicínà district, our must-sees for visiting Granada

Nearly eight centuries. This is the length of time that Granada was Muslim. From 711 to 1492, the Umayyad, Almoravid, Almohad and Nasrid dynasties took turns in control of the city., last jewel of the kingdom of Al-Andalus. In addition to its culture, this presence has had a lasting impact on the town planning and architecture of Granada. There we come across marvelous Moorish remains, between medina-like streets, sparkling palaces and gardens inspired by the Paradise described in the Koran.

After the Reconquistacarried out by the “Catholic Kings”, local artistic traditions were able to continue thanks to the presence of the Moriscos – Muslims “converted” to Christianity –, giving birth to the style Mudejar, a Western art freely inspired by that of Al-Andalus. Our activities to discover this exceptional heritage, in the south-east of Andalusia.

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Alhambra, Nasrid palaces… an air of 1001 nights

Classified by UNESCO since 1984, the Alhambra palace has always fascinated writers. Théophile Gauthier saw him as the “dream of every poet“. It's difficult to contradict him today, despite the crowds of tourists who come to discover this marvel of Arab-Muslim art. Sporting caramel hues, this 13th century masterpiece^e and XIV^e centuries was raised by the Nasrid dynasty. Its construction is subsequent to that of theAlcazaba, powerful fortress which still dominates the city.

But if we rush here, it's mainly to admire the Nasrid palaces, where the emirs resided between audience rooms, courtyards refreshed with fountains and more intimate apartments. Everywhere, a dazzling decor made up ofazulejos colorful, finely carved moucharabiehs, cedar ceilings inlaid with gold or stucco calligraphy. Guarded by twelve felines, the fountain of the famous court of lions is preceded by delicate marble columns supporting aerial galleries. Magic !

The Generalife Gardens, iinspired by paradise

Located slightly above the Alhambra palace and clinging to a rocky spur, the fabulous Generalife gardens – understand “from the Architect” – are worth the trip alone, ranking among the most enchanting there is. Laid out on a terrace, the space is punctuated by countless fountains and ponds, cleverly separated by rows of cypresses or beds of roses.

With the five senses on alert, we stroll happily through the Acequia patio, crossed by an impetuous canal. As in most Islamic gardens, the control of water is impressive. Springing from everywhere and flowing in all directions, it seems omnipresent. These various arrangements were intended to cool the place during the summer heatwaves, when the emirs took up residence in the small palace adjoining the garden. The sovereigns organized large receptions and shows there in the mildness of the evening.

Get lost in the Albaicín district, medina air

On the hill facing the Alhambra, the Albaicín district offers a striking decor. Its narrow whitewashed streets, punctuated with stairs or delightful little squares, constitute a fantastic playground for dreamers. Its name comes from the activity of its former inhabitants, most of whom were masons. The area is still home to superb residences, Moorish but also Christian or Jewish: in the time of Al-Andalus, cohabitation was the norm.

In the Casa de Zafraconstruction of the 14th century^e century, we return to this “society of Three Cultures”. Not far away, the Casa Horno del Oro, from the Nasrid period, hides an interesting Hispano-Moorish decor. Just like the spectacular Casa del Chapiz, Mudejar style. Since 1932, it has hosted the School of Arab Studies. Further down, the street Alcaiceria remains invaded by oriental craft shops, in an atmosphere reminiscent of the souks of the Maghreb.

Hammam Al Ándalus, El Bañuelo… Experience the art of Arab baths

In Granada, several historic baths can be visited such as those ofEl Banuelospectacular set of the XI^e century. Its vast vaulted rooms have small openings allowing light to filter through. On the walls, Moorish decorations remain visible, sometimes embellished with reused Roman or Visigoth capitals.

But the must is still to treat yourself to a relaxation session in one of the city's rehabilitated oriental baths. With its walls covered in azulejos, its undulating arches and its different pools (cold, warm or hot), the Hammam Al Andalus displays a captivating decor. A welcome break of calm after a day wandering the streets of Granada, most often in the heat. To the sound of soft music and under subdued lighting, we treat ourselves to a massage and close our eyes, imagining ourselves back in the time of Boabdil, the last Nasrid ruler of Granada.

Hotels, paradores… our best places to sleep in a Moorish setting

It's every visitor's dream to Granada: to sleep in a palace reminiscent of Al-Andalus. Installed in a beautiful 15th century residence^e century which belonged to a Morisco family, theHotel Casa Morisca offers a magical experience. Its large patio lined with columns and topped with wooden galleries leaves no one indifferent; just like its cozy rooms with carved wooden ceilings, whose spaces are punctuated by marble arches. Breakfast is taken in a magnificent vaulted cellar.

Fans of historic residences can also book a night in the Granada Parador , this time located squarely within the walls of the Alhambra. We then reside in the former Nasrid Palace of the Infants, converted into a convent by the Catholic Monarchs. Made up of delightful courtyards, coffered ceilings and antique furniture, the hotel's decor does not disappoint. After a stroll in the garden punctuated with fountains, you can discover the ancient baths of the Alhambra palace, rediscovered in 1949.

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