10 must-see rooms on your visit to the Nasrid Palaces
The Nasrid Palaces complex is one of the major attractions of the Alhambra and Generalife Monumental Complex, and a must-see on your visit to Granada. The Nasrid Palaces consist of three palace complexes from different periods: the Palace of Mexuar, the Palace of the Lions and the Palace of Comares. Together, they form the most majestic palace complex in the whole of Al-Andalus.
The Courtyard of the Lions at the Alhambra
The Courtyard of the Lions, situated in the Palace of the Lions, is one of the best-known and most beautiful rooms in the Alhambra, and represents the architectural highlight of the complex. This courtyard stands out for its beautiful fountain, supported by lions, which is representative of the palace’s construction technique and a true symbol of the importance of water within the Alhambra complex.
Hall of the Abencerrajes
The Hall of the Abencerrajes, also situated in the Palace of the Lions, is one of the most beautiful rooms in the Alhambra. It stands out for its spectacular muqarnas dome, which takes the form of an eight-pointed star as it opens out over muqarnas ribs.
The Hall of the Two Sisters at the Alhambra
The Hall of the Two Sisters is part of the Palace of the Lions and is one of the most beautiful and spectacular rooms you’ll see on your visit to the Nasrid Palaces. Its geometric decoration and the tiled plinth, featuring an interlacing of colours, form one of the most original compositions in the entire Alhambra.
Patio de los Arrayanes
The Patio de los Arrayanes, also known as the Patio de Comares, is situated in the Comares Palace. Its central pool reflects the structures of the monumental palace, lending a new dimension to the space, and is surrounded by clumps of myrtle that contrast with the white marble.
The Hall of the Kings in the Alhambra
The Hall of the Kings is the main hall of the Palace of the Lions, used for receptions and festive events. Its impressive décor blends Renaissance and Islamic elements, with its three muqarnas domes and the paintings adorning the vaults being particularly striking.
Golden Room
The Golden Room, situated in the Comares Palace, stands out for its beautiful Mudejar ceiling, painted during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs. In the past, it was used by the administrators and secretaries of the Nasrid Court.
The Mexuar Hall in the Alhambra Palace
The Mexuar Hall is one of the oldest rooms in the Alhambra. Its décor was adapted by Yusuf I and Muhammad V, transforming it into a key space where justice was administered and the Sura – the equivalent of the Cabinet – met.
Hall of Ambassadors
The Hall of Ambassadors, located in the Comares Tower, is the most majestic room in the Comares Palace. Its cedar wood dome, covered in tracery, and its decorative inscriptions make it a masterpiece of Nasrid woodcarving.
The Comares Baths at the Alhambra in Granada
The Comares Bath, known as the Alhambra Hammam, is the only medieval Islamic bath preserved almost intact in the West. Due to its fragility, it can only be viewed from other areas of the Alhambra.
Comares Façade
The Comares Façade, opposite the Golden Room, is a perfect example of the harmonious blend of geometric, epigraphic and plant-based decorative elements. It was built by Muhammad V in 1370 as part of his project to embellish the Alhambra.
