Granada Spain (October 24, 2024)

At first look, I was not impressed by what I saw after leaving the train station and arriving at our hotel. So much graffiti and run down buildings. Even our hotel left a little to be desired upon first look. 

Graffiti

Then however after walking a lot during the day, I appreciated how close our hotel was to the train station and the fact that we did not have to lug our backpacks around more of the city than was necessary. Anyway…

On our way to the Alhambra

We had an open ticket to tour the Alhambra which back in the day consisted of 6 palaces, many gardens, fortress and towers. It was built beginning in 1238 on top of Roman ruins by the Nasrid Dynasty. They were the last Muslim dynasty in Spain. In 1492 they finally surrendered to the Catholic monarchs- King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella and handed over the keys to their city.

Our entrance into the Alhambra
The pathways inside leading to the palaces and gardens at the top
The Sumtans palace
The beautiful gardens at the palace
Amazing watering system flowing alongside steps as part of handrail

After a refreshing nap back at our hotel, we headed out for an evening walking tour. We met Carmen who was the most passionate guide I’ve ever had! She was amazing and loves her city of Granada. We visited two neighborhoods, the Albaicin and Sacromonte. They were both so different but I’m so glad we chose this tour as it made Granada the most interesting city I’ve been in.

Former watering system. Water was kept behind the small door in cisterns which would be filled. Not sure how that process worked but it allowed those living below to access water
Along the Albaicin hill route where there are many very expensive homes with view of the Alhambra
We ran into every tourist in the city here at this viewpoint! It was nearly impossible to get a good view which was ok because later in our tour we had better vantage points.
Down the hill we go towards Sacromonte, the Gypsy quarter where you can find intimate small venue flamenco shows
Getting to the good views…
Looking towards Alhambra
Flamenco anyone? This would so amazing. Another trip…
cave homes…
A maze of streets in Sacromonte
Entrance to a cave establishment

After 2.5 hours and at least 2 miles of walking and climbing stairs we came to the end of the tour. It was time for food as that’s simply how our day and evening went. Tonight we eat like the Spanish and have a 10 pm meal!

My favorite dish tonight was warm hummus. I always eat it cold… why?
And back home we go (hotel) down the very colorful streets

And that my friends is one day in Granada. An additional day or two would have been ideal but we’re on a discovery mission here. Goodbye until next time!

#Spain2024

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