Fascinating Facts about Alhambra
Fascinating Facts about Alhambra
Discover captivating facts about Alhambra Granada and uncover the truth behind this world-famous landmark. This page delves into two distinct sections, offering essential information about legendary Alhambra compiled as accurate quick facts, as well as some intriguing details and interesting tidbits, presented as fun facts that you won’t find in just any article about the city castle complex and that’ll make you go ooh and aah…
Quick Facts about Alhambra
- Address: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
- Recommended Entrance with Ticket: Puerta de la Justicia (Gate of Justice), C. Real de la Alhambra, 18, Centro
- Coordinates of Puerta de la Justicia: N 37° 10′ 34.1”, W 3° 35′ 25”
- Entrance without Ticket: Pabellón de Acceso a la Alhambra (Entrance Pavilion to Alhambra), P.º del Generalife, 1F, Centro
- Coordinates of Entrance Pavilion: N 37° 10′ 27.3”, W 3° 35′ 4”
- Original Arabic Name: Qalat al-Hamra (meaning Red Castle)
- Elevation: 2,300 feet (700 meters) above sea level
- Total Area: 13.2 hectares (33 acres)
- Construction Started and Finished: 9th century (Alcazaba Fortress) – 15th century (Nasrid Palaces)
- Architects: Unknown (Alcazaba Fortress, Nasrid Palace), Pedro Machuca (Palace of Charles V)
- Architectural Styles: Islamic (Nasrid Palaces), Renaissance (Palace of Charles V), Mudéjar
- Materials Used: Stone, brick, wood, stucco, ceramic tiles, gold leaf
- Number of Buildings: Over 20
- Number of Rooms: Over 100
- Number of Towers: 13
- Number of Gardens: 4 major gardens (Generalife, Partal, Garden of the Rauda, and Cypress of the Queen) and several smaller courtyards
- Renowned for: Intricate Nasrid Palaces (Court of the Lions, Comares Palace), Generalife Gardens, Alcazaba Fortress, Palace of Charles V, diverse architectural styles, historical significance
- Owner: Government of Spain
- Special Events: Concerts, exhibitions, cultural performances
- Number of Visitors per Year: Over 3 million
Fun Facts about Alhambra
Forget the usual tourist fodder! Here are some jaw-dropping facts about Alhambra that will leave you speechless!
Whispers in Water
The Alhambra’s intricate water system was more than just plumbing. Its ingenious design used gravity and hidden channels to create mesmerizing water features and even “whisper” messages through vibrations carried by the flow. Imagine strolling through gardens where the very water murmurs secrets of its ancient past!
The Mockingbirds’ Revenge
Legend tells of a jealous king who imprisoned all the city’s nightingales in the Generalife gardens. But the clever birds outsmarted him, mimicking the sounds of construction and escaping through unfinished walls. Today, listen closely as you wander the gardens – perhaps you’ll hear the echoes of their triumphant song.
Starry Secrets
Gaze upwards at the intricate designs gracing the ceilings and walls, and you’ll see more than just geometric patterns. Many are constellations mapped meticulously by astronomers, allowing the Alhambra to function as a giant astrological calendar, telling time through the stars.
The Lost Treasure of Muhammad V
Rumors whisper of a hidden chamber beneath the Comares Palace, built by the opulent Sultan Muhammad V to safeguard his most prized treasures. Did he succeed in concealing his riches? Could the legendary lost chamber still hold untold secrets waiting to be discovered?
The Alhambra’s Ghost
The haunting silhouette of a young woman, known as “La Dama del Agua” (The Lady of Water), is said to wander the halls near the Partal Gardens. Some say she’s the spirit of a princess yearning for freedom, while others believe she’s the ghost of a Moorish woman lost in the gardens. Keep an eye out for this spectral visitor during your exploration!
The Whisper of the Hand
Look closely at the intricate hand-carved decorations throughout the Alhambra. Legend whispers that some hands depict hidden messages, either political symbols or even pleas for help from imprisoned artisans. Can you decipher their silent cries for attention? One hand in the Hall of Ambassadors seems to point towards the ceiling, sparking debates about its meaning and symbolism.
Talking Trees
The lush gardens of the Alhambra are said to hold the whispers of past conversations. Some believe the ancient trees retain echoes of laughter, prayers, and even arguments from centuries ago.
The Hall of Two Sisters’ Mystery
The Court of the Two Sisters boasts mesmerizing columns seemingly identical. However, a closer look reveals one is 1.5cm wider than the other. Historians debate the reason – was it a mistake, a symbolic message, or a playful joke by the builders? The answer remains hidden within the stone.
The Alhambra’s Musical Soul
The very architecture of the Alhambra sings. The courtyards and arches are designed to create specific resonant frequencies, amplifying specific sounds and creating a harmonious acoustic environment. Close your eyes and listen. Can you hear the echoes of forgotten melodies woven into the very fabric of the building?
The Musical Archway
The Gate of Justice boasts an intricate horseshoe arch that, when tapped in a specific way, produces a musical chime. Was it a hidden communication method or a playful acoustic feature?
The Secret of the Lions
The iconic Court of the Lions features twelve lions surrounding a central fountain. But why lions? Theories abound, ranging from symbols of power and protection to astrological references. Is there a hidden meaning staring us right in the face? Legend says the 12 lions would roar when enemies approached, thanks to hidden water channels and whistles. Was it a clever defense mechanism or just spooky folklore?
The Time Capsule at Your Feet
The Alhambra’s very foundation holds secrets. Archaeological digs have unearthed pottery shards, tools, and even ancient coins, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who built and lived within these majestic walls centuries ago. Every step you take could be on top of a hidden story waiting to be unearthed.
The Missing Minaret
The Mosque of the Alhambra was never completed; its missing minaret stands as a silent testament to an unfulfilled dream. What prevented its construction, and what would it have looked like?
The Alhambra Cat
A beloved feline mascot named Salsa roamed the grounds for over a decade, greeting visitors and becoming a symbol of the palace’s welcoming atmosphere.
The Mysterious Inscription
An enigmatic Arabic inscription on a gate within the Generalife gardens remains undeciphered, sparking theories about hidden messages and forgotten stories.
The Moon’s Reflection
On certain nights, during the full moon, a perfect reflection of the moon appears in the water of the Partal Pond, creating a breathtaking celestial spectacle.
The Secret Garden
Hidden within the Alcazaba fortress lies a secluded garden known as the “Huerta del Secreto” (Garden of the Secret), accessible only through a narrow passage. What was its purpose, and who was allowed to enter?
The Alhambra’s Colors
While often associated with its reddish hue, the Alhambra was originally adorned with vibrant colors – blues, greens, and yellows – creating a dazzling spectacle that faded over time.
The Lost Palace
Legends whisper of a hidden palace beneath the Alhambra, built by the Nasrid rulers and filled with treasures. Could it be real, or just a figment of our imagination?
Secret Passages
Hidden passageways snake throughout the Alhambra, some leading to secret chambers and escape routes. These were used by royalty and officials for both practical and dramatic purposes.
Sun-Powered Calendar
The intricate designs on the Alhambra’s walls and ceilings weren’t just decorative – they functioned as a sophisticated solar calendar. By observing the movement of sunlight through the openings, astronomers could track the seasons and even predict eclipses.
The Missing Key
The main gate of the Alhambra, the Puerta de la Justicia, features an empty keyhole. Legend says that whoever inserts the right key will unlock a hidden treasure chamber, but the key itself remains lost to history.
Echoing Laughter
The Patio de los Machuca, with its perfectly symmetrical design, creates an unusual acoustic phenomenon. If you laugh in one corner, your laughter will echo multiple times before fading away, creating an eerie yet captivating effect.
Book Alhambra Tickets & Tours
Explore below our recommended Alhambra ticket options and pick from the finest selection:
Alhambra Skip-the-Line Tickets
3.3K Reviews
From €14.00
HeadOut
“Fortunately, I heard through social media that you needed to but tickets in advance to tour Alhambra.You need toickets only to tour the royal palce on the grounds of Alhambra.…
Granada: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces Entry Ticket
9.9K Reviews
From €24.59
GetYourGuide
“[…] I arrived 5 minutes late at the checkpoint from where they gave me the coupon in Nasrid palaces and it was all a real blast, everything was great, I would repeat again and trust get your guide”
Granada: Alhambra Entry Ticket with Audio Guide
4.3K Reviews
From €49.90
GetYourGuide
“The visit to the Alhambra is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have, the audio guide is very well done and will stay with you forever. […].”
All Alhambra: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Nasrid Palaces
5.9K Reviews
From €42.90
Headout
“The greatest part about the guided tour of the Al Hambra was truely our guide herself, ‘Mar’. […]
Explore the renowned Alhambra complex at your own pace with this skip-the-line Alhambra ticket. Admire the Alcazaba and the Candle Tower, and consider upgrading your tickets to gain access to the Nasrid Palaces.
“Fortunately, I heard through social media that you needed to but tickets in advance to tour Alhambra. You need toickets only to tour the royal palce on the grounds of Alhambra. Trust me, the palace is worth visiting. You will not be able to purchase tickets for the palance the day of. I am so glad I purchased mine early. […].” Rodney; Oct, 2023 [Source: Headout]
Experience the grandeur of the Alhambra with this Alhambra ticket, ensuring fast-track entry to the Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces, and Generalife. Additionally, enjoy entry to the Mosque Baths, the Palace of Charles V, temporary exhibitions, and the “Space of the Month.”
“[…] I arrived 5 minutes late at the checkpoint from where they gave me the coupon in Nasrid palaces and it was all a real blast, everything was great, I would repeat again and trust get your guide” Sergio – Spain; Jan 22, 2024 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Explore the iconic Alhambra at your own pace with this Alhambra Ticket, featuring skip-the-line daytime entry, and an audio guide with a GPS navigator. Witness the wonders of the complex, including the Nasrid Palaces and Alcazaba Fortress, using this exclusive self-guided audio tour available in Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian.
“The visit to the Alhambra is one of the most beautiful experiences you can have, the audio guide is very well done and will stay with you forever. […].” GetYourGuide traveler – Italy; Jan 7, 2024 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Explore the entire Alhambra complex during a 3-hour guided tour led by an English, French, or Spanish-speaking guide, with the chance to upgrade for exclusive nighttime access. Marvel at the Alcazaba Fortress, the iconic Nasrid Palaces, Generalife Gardens, Medina, and Carlos V Palace.
“The greatest part about the guided tour of the Al Hambra was truely our guide herself, ‘Mar’. […] I cannot advise more strongly that you organise a guided tour of the Al Hambra even if just to skip all the lines and take a bit more from your trip then you otherwise would!” 5* Ethan Jan, 2024 [Source: Headout]
Maximize your experience with this super-saver combo deal, featuring a Fast-Track Alhambra ticket with Nasrid Palaces access and a 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off tour of Granada. Explore at your own pace with 11 stops and a multilingual audio guide for a hassle-free sightseeing tour.
“It was easy to get tickets online in advance and they were inexpensive. I used it two days. The buses came by frequently and never had to wait long. […]” Cindy, Oct, 2023 [Source: Headout]
Save time and money with the Granada Card, offering 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour options. Enjoy access to key attractions like the Alhambra (with timed entry to Nasrid Palaces), Cathedral, and Cartuja Monastery, plus 9 bus rides in the Alhambra public transport network and one ride on the tourist train.
“Very difficult to find tickets for this fantastic site either locally or online…resigned to not being able to visit, we tried headout …incredible : within 2 hours and for a very convenient price we had a 48 hour granada card to visit several sites in addition to the alhambra + 9 rides on the bus x to the sites and 1 ride tourist train..cool, thank you I highly recommend it!” Alfredo Nov, 2023 [Source: Headout]
