Granada

The Alhambra is a gem in Southern Spain.  It is a palace, or was a long time ago, built in the 14th century.  It was the last Moorish holdout until it finally fell to the Christians during the reconquest of 1492.  After which, it fell into disrepair and laid dormant until it's rediscovery in the 19th century by English travelers who began to refurbish it.  Today it is a wonderfully preserved landmark with beautiful sprawling gardens to wander.

What we found here was not anything like other palaces we've seen thus far.  It is very old, charmingly rustic, and an architectural masterpiece.  The stonework and woodwork are phenomenal. The people who built it were true masters of their crafts.  It is a feast for the eyes with its iconic Moorish arches found over every walkway, doorway and window.  The carvings around them are so beautiful, it's hard to describe them with words.  Some of the rooms had entire ceilings that had been hand carved.  The designs are intricate, symmetrical and absolutely incredible!

The Alhambra overlooks the city of Granada.

I love this photo.  It's so European.  The town is built upon itself and smashed around the church, who needs empty space anyway?

The city of Granada had an urban, gritty feel to it.  It is a true melting pot of cultures.  We saw Arabics, Christians and Jews all together (which seems to be a reoccurring theme here, in Southern Spain).  I really loved the city's vibe and can't wait to go back because we were only able to explore a tiny portion on this first visit.

We stayed in the old part of town that is walled off from the rest of the city.  It's a neighborhood of tiny streets layed out like a maze.  At first it feels overwhelming, but it doesn't take too long to get the hang of it.

These guys were playing these instruments and the sound was pretty cool.  Luke and Emry really enjoyed it!

Inside the cathedral

This is a view of The Alhambra from near our apartment.  We had an excellent view, and I thought I took night photos from our window, but they are no where to be found???  Hmmm?  Maybe I'm finally loosing my marbles.

I fell in love with the graffiti all over town.  It was everywhere.  I realize it is defacing proprty, but it can be edgy, raw and cool at the same time.

had to snap me a little mario bro love!

We walked past so many doors like this one...and each time I wished I could peak over the wall into the courtyards!

We stayed in that yellowish-orangish building down the alley

A market street

This is one of the entrances to the old market.  Once upon a time it was in the outskirts of town and used to house the merchants and their camels as they traveled through.  Today it's full of shops.  One after another...all selling the same things.

until next time.....