The Alcazaba is a palatial fortification built by the Hammudid dynasty in the early 11th century.
This is the best-preserved alcazaba (from the Arabic al-qasbah meaning citadel) in Spain.
There’s an abundance of beautiful Moorish architectural details including decorative archways, irrigation channels, ornate fountains and cool courtyards.
I love this tiny little window arch, edged with decorative stone frills. These small details cover the structure.
As you head up into the complex itself we were captivated by beautiful trees with purple blossoms that we’d never noticed before.
The stunning violet flowers turned out to be those of the jacaranda tree.
The Alcazaba is built on a hill in the centre of the city and has views overlooking the port, and comprises two walled enclosures.
A series of courtyards and alleyways reveal ornate details and beautiful gardens. All perfectly designed to keep inhabitants cools even in the height of the summer heat.
Here’s Neil about to take a bracing dip in one of the main water features dotted about!
When the heat gets too much you can sit and cool down in one of the shaded squares and formal gardens where sparkling fountains and greenery takes the edge of the temperature.
There are examples of the sophisticated irrigation channels throughout the complex.
Shady courtyards offer a glimpse of the luxuries of the past including Cuartos de Granada (Quarters of Granda) the home of the kings.
As the palace is Moorish with its roots in Islamic traditions, artwork is comprised of intricate geometric patterns.
