As mentioned in my previous blog post about Granada I really love this place. From the Albaicin neighbourhood, with the artistic shops and great restaurants, to the more modern city centre, Granada has something for everybody. And, sitting on top of a grand hill, awaits the Alhambra and Nasrid Palace. Because you definitely can’t give those a miss.
The Granada Castles History
The fortification and castles of Granada have a long history, starting with a small fortress left behind during the Romans time (AD 889), through to the renovations by the Emirates of Granada, mid 13th, (the Nasrid emir Mohammed ben Al-Hamar). The most stunning building, the Nasrid Palace, was built for the last Muslim emirs in Spain during the decline of the Nasrid dynasty (who were increasingly subject to the Christian Kings of Castile).
(source Wikipedia).
The Alhambra Complex is quite grand and you can walk around freely. You do need tickets for the two main palaces however. The Alhambra and the Nasrid Palace. (See below for more)
Nasrid Palace
The Nasrid emir, Mohamed ben Al-Hamar definitely had some taste back then. It is one of the most amazing buildings and palaces I have seen. The details, the colours, the engravings are just breathtaking. Such a unique design! You could spend hours walking around this palace, taking it all in.
(Well, it goes a bit quicker when you have to rush to get to the Alhambra Palace before the ticket expires at 6pm (for the night shift)).
my little friend from London 
Important tip
Get your tickets to Alhambra in advance. There are only certain (and punctual) time slots for accessing the Nasrid palace, due to limited amount of people allowed inside at one time. And the only website I found to book tickets without a guided tour is here. The ticket will get you into all the important sites, as well as the Alhambra Palace.
Alhambra Palace
The Alhambra Palace might not have the same details in architecture and design as the Nasrid Palace, but being there closer to sunset, it certainly impressed with the stunning views over Granada and Albaicin (looking back the the people looking at the palace). The lighting was perfect and I took plenty of photos. What else is there to say?
Looking at Albaicin 
The Cathedral 
Summary
The three days in Granada were amazing. I am glad I decided to come to here. Also, the overall complex as well as walking the cobbled streets reminded me a little bit of Cesky Krumlov. I have visited this tiny town in Czech Republic during winter season as well, so it had the same feel. Both worth a visit (but maybe not in the same trip)… xx
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