About Granada

At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, between the rivers Darro and Genil, lies one of the most interesting cities in Eastern Andalusia: Granada. As well as its impressive Al-Andalus heritage, there are Renaissance architectural gems and the most modern facilities, fit for the 21st century. Granada has an unmistakable Moorish essence, due to the fact that it was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. The gastronomy, craftwork and urban planning are influenced by its glorious past. Fountains, viewpoints and "Cármenes", houses surrounded by typical gardens of this city, create unforgettable corners in the city. It is no surprise that one of its old neighbourhoods, the Albaicín, has been awarded the World Heritage designation, together with the Alhambra and Generalife. It was an important cultural centre for many centuries, under the Moors and the Christians too, and nowadays it boasts a broad cultural and leisure programme. Film, music or theatre festivals are complemented with permanent or travelling exhibitions on all fields of knowledge. Old Renaissance palaces hold seminars, conferences and discussions, while the most innovative infrastructures are prepared for great events.

Get to know Granada by neighbourhoods

Albaicín:

It is hardly surprising that UNESCO declared the Albaicín World Cultural Heritage in 1994.

Alhambra and surrounding area:

The Alhambra complex is the world's most spectacular Arab citadel and the symbol of Granada. It comprises several visitable areas.
Tickets to visit the Alhambra (specially the Nasrid Palaces) must be purchased at least three months in advance.

Genil and Ronda:

This pleasant area is only a few minutes from the city centre and boasts one of the broadest range of cultural and scientific attractions in Europe.

Historical centre:

The monumentality of the Catholic Monarchs' favourite city is felt in impressive monuments like the Cathedral, a symbol of Granada’s Christianity, the Royal Chapel, the Monastery of San Jerónimo.

Realejo:

Realejo is the old Jewish neighbourhood of Granada, or Garnata al-Yahud (Granada of the Jews).

Sacromonte:

Sacromonte is Granada’s most distinctive neighbourhood, known worldwide for its houses in caves and stunning views.

Granada and its surroundings

In addition to the provincial capital and the region of Granada, there are a number of towns historically linked to the city of the Alhambra. These towns share its rich heritage and are located in the town’s so-called green belt, surrounded by carefully tended gardens and green spaces. Some municipalities have played a crucial role in world history and culture, such as Santa Fe, a town created by the Catholic Kings to besiege Granada and where the Capitulations for the discovery of the Americas were signed by Christopher Columbus. Another example is Fuente Vaqueros, the birthplace of Federico García Lorca, one of the most important Spanish poets and playwrights.
Click here to learn more