Population: Approximately 240,000
Time zone: GMT +1 hour
Currency: Euro
Language: Spanish
Int. dialling code: +34
Religion: Predominantly Christian
Tourist board
Graham Parker
Head of Creative Direction, Harrods Ltd
"Granada, Spain - on a hot summer night sitting in the 15th-century Parador in the middle of the Palace of the Alhambra, overlooking the Sierra Nevada. Languid, still, time-worn and truly moving."
Granada
At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the southern Spanish province of Andalusia, the city of Granada is renowned for its Moorish citadel, the Alhambra Palace, and the presence of the prestigious University of Granada. Granada has been an integral city throughout the course of European history, with the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks and Romans each establishing a significant presence in the region.
Alhambra Palace: Undoubtedly the prime attraction for visitors to Granada is the fortress complex of the Alhambra Palace, located atop a hilly terrace in the Albaicin district of the city. Dating from the Nasrid emirate of Granada in the 14th century, the Alhambra - 'red fortress' - was so-called for the red clay used in its construction.
Generalife Gardens: As part of the Alhambra, the spectacular summer palace, known as the Generalife, and its gardens are as compelling and unforgettable as the citadel itself. The gardens on display today date from the mid-20th century and were completed by Francisco Prieto Moreno in a traditional Granadian style.
Palace of Charles V: Also set within the Alhambra is the Renaissance-era palace of Charles V, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire from 1519-1556. The palace boasts grand inner circular patio and was designed by Spanish architect Pedro Machuca, reputedly a pupil of the great master Michelangelo.
Did you eat at a fantastic restaurant or stay in a wonderful hotel in Granada? Maybe you discovered a hidden sight or you have a Spanish travel tip that you want to share with other visitors?