72 Hours In Granada
Apart from being one of Spain’s great historical cities, Granada is also situated in beautiful surroundings on the edge of the Sierra Nevada mountains. While spending just 72 hours in Granada, there are four must see places. Plan ahead and see the best of this Andalusian city.
The Alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the most notable examples of Moorish architecture anywhere in Spain. A palace and fortress complex, the complex was neglected for a few hundred years, after the building of the Palace of the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V, was added in 1527.
However, European scholars in the 1800s realised its historical significance and it was subsequently restored to some of its former glory. An impressive combination of both Islamic and Christian architecture, the Alhambra has achieved UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
A wood of English elms surrounds the complex, while the Alhambra‘s park is a natural wilderness that is heavily populated by nightingales. A number of fountains are also to be seen in the park, and the Fountain of Lions, in the Court of the Lions, are situated at the centre of the complex.
Because the Alhambra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the whole of Spain it’s advisable to purchase your tickets well in advance.
Granada Cathedral
A cathedral that took the best part of two centuries to complete. Granada Cathedral is made up of a variety of architectural styles, from classical Greek and Roman to the Baroque. The cathedral was also designed partly by one of Granada’s most famous sons, Alonso Cano. In the Chapel of the Trinity there is work by El Greco. The main chapel contains prominent effigies of Isabella I and Ferdinand II. Closed to visitors on Sundays and public holidays, tickets can be purchased on the day you plan to visit the cathedral.
Royal Chapel of Granada
This is a mausoleum for Spain’s kings and queens prior to the reign of King Charles V. The chapel has widespread appeal because of the sculptures, paintings, tapestries and ornaments it houses. Designed by Enrique Egas, work started on the chapel in 1505. Which was over a decade earlier than for the nearby cathedral.
The building’s cultural importance was recognised as long ago as 1884, when it was classified as a Historic Artistic Monument. You can also book a guided tour to visit the Chapel.
Opening times are the same for all days of the week. Except Sundays and public holidays.
- Mon-Sat: Mornings 10.15am to 1.30pm / Afternoons 4pm to 7.30pm
- Sundays: Morning 11am to 1.30pm / Afternoons 2.30pm to 6.30pm
If you only have limited hours in Granada make plans to ensure you cover the main sights.
Sacromonte
Situated on a hill, Sacromonte is an area of Granada that you can walk around for free, and it is a place that really conjures up some of the traditional images and sounds of Spain, such as flamenco music and dance.
Sacromonte Abbey is notable for its fine collection of art and the views across to the Alhambra and Generalife. As well as its underground catacombs and religious chapels.
While the typical caves that have been whitewashed to make unique homes for local residents and tourist accommodation.
Great piece, thanks. The title picture is of Palacio de las Cordobas, is it not? But it looks like an old shot, before a lot if the garden was planted. Where can i get more if these old pics of that building?
The header image is the Parador of Granada, located inside the Alhambra grounds. There is more information about this building here> https://www.piccavey.com/parador-granada-spain/ The Palacio de los Cordovas is at the end of Paseo de los Tristes below the Alhambra. There are photos of this building here > http://alhambracadabra.blogspot.com.es/2012/07/palacio-de-los-cordova.html This is used for weddings and events at the moment but the gardens are open to the public.