Interesting Facts About Alhambra - Fun Facts About Alhambra Spain

Alhambra is the name of a palace and fortress complex that forms one of the most popular tourist attractions of Spain. It is situated on hill al-Sabika, on the southeastern border of the city of Granada. It was constructed by the Nasrid rulers of Granada, in order to serve as a fortress for military purposes. Later, mainly with the arrival of Mohammed ben Al-Hamar, it was transformed into the royal residence. If you want to know some more fun and interesting facts about Alhambra, go through the lines below.

Fun and Interesting Facts about Alhambra

The complete name of Alhambra is "Qal'at al-Hambra", which means "The Red Fortress".
Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex situated on the southeastern border of the city of Granada, Spain.
Alhambra is perched on top of hill al-Sabika, along the left bank of River Darro.
The strategic location of Alhambra allows a view over the whole city as well as the meadow (la Vega).
Constructed by the Nasrid rulers of Granada, Alhambra was initially intended to serve as a military fortress.
It was with the arrival of the first king of the Nasrid dynasty - Mohammed ben Al-Hamar, in 13^th century, that the royal residence was established in Alhambra.
Watch Tower (Torre de la Vela) and the Keep (Torre del Homenaje) of Alhambra were built after the arrival of Mohammed ben Al-Hamar.
Yusuf I (1333-1353) and Mohammed V (1353-1391) can be credited with building most of the impressive structures in Alhambra.
The architecture of Alhambra, as it stands today, is a blend of Islamic (initial) as well as 16^th century Christian (later additions) styles.
Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, got a Palace of Charles V erected within Alhambra, in 1527.
The terrace or plateau that serves as the foundation of Alhambra measures about 740 m (2430 ft) in length and 205 m (674 ft) at its greatest width.
The feature of Alhambra that is the most westerly one comprises of the Alcazaba (citadel); a strongly fortified position.
The foundation plateau of Alhambra, apart from Alcazaba, comprises of a number of palaces, enclosed by a relatively weak fortified wall.
Thirteen towers, some defensive and some providing vistas for the inhabitants form the other structures of Alhambra.
Alhambra was completed towards the end of Muslim rule in Spain, by Yusuf I (1333-1353) and Muhammed V, Sultan of Granada (1353-1391).
Though the buildings of Alhambra were initially whitewashed, they are now seen as reddish today.
The first reference to the Alhambra is found during the battles between the Arabs and the Muladies, during the rule of ‘Abdullah ibn Muhammad (888-912).
The complex of Alhambra stands surrounded by ramparts and has an asymmetrical shape.
Alhambra has valley of the river Darro on its northern side, valley of al-Sabika on its southern side and street Cuesta del Rey Chico on its eastern side.
The castle of Alhambra was added to the city's area, within the ramparts, in the 9th century.
A part of Alhambra was blown up during French domination, but the repair and restoration was carried out as late as 19th century.

How to Cite

Facts About Alhambra

Related Articles

See also

More in 'Travel'