Spain

Alhambra

Alhambra

Welcome to Granada, Spain! The Alhambra is a huge palace and fortress on a hilltop, famous for its beautiful courtyards, splashing fountains, and walls covered in delicate patterns.

Why is it famous?

It is one of the finest palaces from the Islamic Golden Age still standing anywhere in the world.

Its intricate carved patterns and peaceful courtyards have amazed visitors for over 700 years.

How was it built?

Construction began in 1238 under a Muslim ruler named Muhammad I, and later rulers kept adding beautiful new rooms and courtyards.

Craftsmen carved swirling patterns into plaster and wood, and covered walls with colorful tiles called zellij.

Amazing facts

Its name means "the red one" in Arabic, because of the reddish clay used to build its walls.

The famous Court of the Lions has a fountain held up by 12 carved marble lions.

Quick facts

  • Its name means "the red one" in Arabic, because of the reddish clay used to build its walls.
  • The famous Court of the Lions has a fountain held up by 12 carved marble lions.
  • It sits next to the Generalife, a huge palace garden full of fountains and fruit trees.
  • It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.