The Alhambra Palace is set against the magnificent backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains and its name originates from Arabic roots meaning red or crimson castle.

The Alhambra Palace was originally created as a fortress for military purposes in the 9th century.  It was also a palace and a small city, and there are many distinctive features which can still be seen today, to confirm this. However the original fortress, castles and palaces of the Zirites, the first Kings of Granada, no longer exist. The Nasrite dynasty were probably the Emirs who started the restoration of the old fortress in the early 13th century, their founder was Muhammed-al-Ahmar. The restoration was continued by his son Muhammed II and carried on by his successors. The palace construction dates back to the 14th century and is the work of two great kings Yusufi and Muhammed V (his son).

The Alhambra Palace was conquered along with the city of Granada in 1492 by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand & Isabella and various structures were built for prominent civilians along with a military garrison , a church
and  Franciscan Monastery.  In the 16th century Emperor Charles V spent several months in Granada building the Palace which bears his name and also altering some interior buildings causing interminable controversy between politicians.  There are some discreet impressions left by the Austrian Habsburg Kings after Charles V abdicated.  During the 18th century the Alhambra Palace fell into neglect and was used by thieves and beggars who converted it into taverns and rubbish tips.

In 1808 Napoleons troops marched into Granada and held it for four years, they used the Alhambra Palace as a barracks for their soldiers.  Two of the towers were damaged when they were mined during a retreat and were left in ruins. This neglect continued until 1870 when Alham - Bra was declared a national monument after artists and travellers from all over Europe rallied against this neglect of arguably their most beautiful and historical building. From then until today  the Alhambra Palace has been protected and restored by all the rulers of Spain to the delight  & appreciation of all.

Written by K Hill