WELCOME TO GRANADA
If you want to understand the allure of Granada, the Legend of Boabdil says it all.
Boabdil was the last Moorish King of Granada, and Granada was the last Arab stronghold on the entire peninsula. In 1492, after more than 700 years of Muslim occupation, the Christians took Granada, the final bastion of a glorious domain, and exiled Boabdil from his exquisite palace, the Alhambra. As he was leaving the city, Boabdil - a strong, sturdy and proud leader - began to weep like a little girl.
This legend has gone down in history in countless works of art and poetry, an impressive image of a powerful man diminished by his lament for a city, riches and beauty lost. What sort of magic could a city contain to bring such a leader to his knees?
La Alhambra
Considered one of the word's modern wonders, the Alhambra is a spectacular Muslim fort-palace, a majestic reminder the city's rich Arab history. Intricately detailed ceilings and walls, beautiful fountains, unique sculptures and a vast garden make this Europe's most exotic destination and Spain's most visited.
The Cathedral and Around
The Catholic half of Granada's history is emobodied by its vast Renaissance-style cathedral. Buried in the adjacent Royal Chapel are Fernando and Isabel, the "Reyes Católicos" who famously financed Columbus's voyage to the new world. Surrounding streets are closed to traffic, so you can discover enchanting alleyways while listening to flamenco guitar players that dot the sidewalks.
El Albaicín
Spain's largest surviving Moorish barrio, the Albaicín's rambshackle medieval streets hold more character than entire cities. Its narrow, winding paths hold flamenco locales, outdoor cafes, a variety of restaurants and great hilltop views of the Alhambra.
