alhambra

La Alhambra

In the early 700s AD, the south of Spanin was invaded and conquered by Muslems. For over seven hundred years, the muslims reigned over this large territory. In fact, it was not until the year 1492 (the same year that Colombus arrived at the Americas) that the Reyes Catolicos forced the Muslims out of Spain and reconquered the south. In their 700 year reign of Al Andalus, the Muslim name for their Spanish kingdom, the Musims created great cities and infused thier culture into southern Spain.

In the thirtenth century, the last reigning Muslim dynasity in Spain began the construction of what is now know as one of the great wonders of the world., La Alhambra. Many people believe that La Alhambra is merely a Muslim palace within the city of Granada. However, La Alhambra was actually the royal city that lied within the city walls of Granada. It consists of several palaces, barracks for the guards, and even a huge garden for the royalty to relax and spend some free time.

This is an excellent view of La Alhambra from the Albaicin nieihborhood that neigbors La Alhambra. From this view, one can see the city walls and towers that were used to protect the city.

La Corrida de Toros