Granada: A Vibrant Mix Of Moorish, Christian And Jewish Influences
Holiday accommodation options are unique in Granada with the possibility to stay in the luxurious Alhambra Palace Hotel, pensions in the old Arab-Jewish quarter orconverted gypsy cave houses.
Granada is situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains where the three rivers, the Beiro, the Darro and the Genil converge. It is said that if you have time to visit only one city in Spain, Granada should be the one. Its natural beauty and fascinating history make it a popular tourist destination for all cultures.
Granada was ruled by the Moors until the late 15th century, when it was surrendered to the Catholic monarchs, Ferdinand II and Isabella I. There was also a strong Jewish presence in the city until the Alhambra decree was enforced and the new rulers expelled all of the Jews from Spain in 1492. There is much evidence remaining today of Granada's Moorish and Jewish past, but many churches were built in the Moorish areas and the Jewish areas were leveled in order to build new Christian neighborhoods.
When visiting Granada, you cannot miss the "Jewel of Moorish Spain," the Alhambra. The Alhambra is a Moorish citadel and palace. Its building began in the 13th century, but it evolved over time with new construction and developments. Its site is home to the Alcazaba (the military fortress), the Palacios Nazaries (the stunning Nasrid royal palaces), the Generalife Gardens (which contain many exquisite gardens, fountains and patios of Moorish style) and the Medina (the Moorish town containing the workshops of craftsmen, houses and baths).
There are many plazas, as well as a botanical garden within the city that are worth a visit. Churches are in abundance in the area and their architecture tells much about the history of the city. Try to visit the Church of Santos Justo and Pastor, as well as the hospital and church of San Juan de Dios. The hospital patios and staircase above are outstanding to view. Make sure that you spend some time in the notable districts of Granada such as the historic old quarter, the Realjo district, El Albaicin and the Sacromonte area.
Other popular landmarks in the city of Granada include the historic Moorish baths that date back around 1,000 years, Murallas del Albayzin which are the remains of the surrounding wall of Granada, the Palacio del Mexuar which is an ancient palace of a wealthy sultan and the Mirador de san Nicolas. From here you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
There are a number of different accommodation options in Granada. You can stay in anything from the luxurious Alhambra Palace Hotel to a gypsy cave. There are plenty of five, four and three star hotels to choose from, as well as hostals and pensions. Pensions in the old Arab-Jewish quarter of Albaicin are a popular choice among tourists for their charming mix between modern facilities and old-style courtyards. Youth hostels are also available if you are happy to share a room.
Self-catering holiday rental apartment can be found around the city. The gypsy cave houses can be found in the area of El Sacromonte. They have been converted into self-catering apartments and provide a unique opportunity for tourists.
Related Tags: spain, andalucia, granada
Granada Accommodation with Get Ready Rentalsapartments in granadaGranada accommodationGranda Holiday apartment
Your Article Search Directory : Find in ArticlesRecent articles in this category:
- Top Things to do in Rabat, Malta
There are plenty of things to do in and around Rabat when you travel to Malta. 5 star luxury in your - 4 Sightseeing Highlights of Malta
Malta is a country with many things to see and do, as you will realise when you go on your Malta 5 s - Vacation Rentals - Something For Everyone!
There is no shortage of information on the vacation rental. I've written several articles on the top - Vacation Rentals - a Few Facts
Most everyone has some knowledge of the vacation rental. What I'd like to do here, in the confines o - Exotic Vacation Rentals
Travel is an adventure. In fact, that is why some us travel. Not for the relaxation, not for the cha - Vacation Rental Vs. Hotel
And the winner is….Well, read this, then decide!First, the ubiquitous hotel. Swathed in branded name - Tropical Vacation Homes - Investment or Destination?
Buying a vacation home for investment may be a great idea in these troubled economic times. Be certa - How to Choose a West Rim or South Rim Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
If you want to take a Grand Canyon helicopter tour, you must choose between the West Rim and the Sou - Albuquerque Downtown Hotels Discounts, Deals and Reservations
Providing their guests with the best possible service available, Quality Inn & Suites in downtown Al - Hotel Suites Albuquerque - Online Reservations and Specials
Located in the center of the beautiful and historic town of Albuquerque New Mexico, Clubhouse Inn &
Most viewed articles in this category:
- Brazil's Tourist Attractions
Despite its popularity, Brazil is largely unknown to a lot of people. Other spots around the world h - Visit Ancient Persia, Greece, and North Cyprus with Clearchus of Soli
Tour the Hellenistic remains of Soli in North Cyprus with Clearchus, a student of Aristotle. As he - Exotic Trips - Vacation In Venezuela
Venezuela is a favorite vacation destination. No wonder! For instance, Venezuela is home to the worl - Some Advice When Buying A Travel Cot
A cot is a piece of furniture that is used for babies, infants, campers and travelers. Baby cots are - Marriott Hotels Varied History and An Overview of Properties
Marriott International was established in 1993 when the Marriot Corporation split into two different - Holiday In Cape Town
If you are interested in one of the top vacation destinations in the world, Cape Town may be right f - Hawaii Honeymoon Vacation Packages: Why You Should Purchase One
Are you about to be married within the next year or two? If so, have you started planning your honey - Cancun Weather
Cancun is one of the most well known tropical destinations in the world. Because Cancun is located j - Golf Lovers: Save Money With Hawaii Vacation Golf Packages
Are you one of the millions of Americans who enjoys playing the game of golf? If so, there is a good - Old Town San Diego
The Old Town San Diego Park serves as a way to recreate life in both the early American and early Me