Alhambra: Guided Tour of the Public Areas

Discover one of the most special spaces surrounding La Alhambra with this guided tour of its historic forest. This walk will allow you to get to know a natural environment full of history, ancient trails and corners with unique views of Granada During the tour you will walk among centuries-old trees, ditches and roads that for centuries have led travelers and inhabitants to the Nasrid palatine city. Along the walk you will discover emblematic places such as the Puerta de la Justicia, one of the most impressive entrances of the monumental complex. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover curiosities, legends and historical details that make this walk a unique experience. A perfect way to approach the Alhambra from a different perspective, combining nature and history

The Puerta de la Justicia is one of the most monumental and symbolic entrances of the Alhambra. It was built in 1348 during the reign of the Nasrid Sultan Yusuf I of Granada and served as one of the main approaches to the Palatine city. Today, the Puerta de la Justicia is one of the most photographed points of the Alhambra and a must-see stop for those visiting the monument, as it combines history, Nasrid architecture and some of Granada’s best-known legends.

The Plaza de los Aljibes is one of the largest and most emblematic open spaces in the Alhambra. It is located between the Alcazaba and the entrance to the Nasrid Palaces, becoming a fundamental point of passage within the monumental complex. Its name comes from the large cisterns (water tanks) built in the 16th century during the reign of Charles I of Spain. These underground tanks stored water to supply the fortress and its inhabitants, demonstrating the importance of the hydraulic system inside the Alhambra. Today, the square functions as a large transitional space from which you can contemplate stunning views towards the Albaicín neighborhood and other parts of Granada. Its breadth and history make it an ideal place to stop, imagine life in the fortress and understand the magnitude of the palace complex.

The Wine Gate is one of the oldest and most unique gates in the Alhambra. It is located in the Plaza de los Aljibes, marking the entrance to the ancient medina or inner city of the Nasrid palace complex. It was built during the period of the Nasrid dynasty, probably in the 14th century under the reign of Muhammad V of Granada. Its architecture reflects the refined Andalusian style, with a defensive structure that combines functionality and beauty. Its pointed horseshoe arch, decorative bricks and epigraphic inscriptions that adorn its walls stand out. The origin of his name is not completely clear. One of the most accepted theories indicates that, after the Christian conquest of Granada in 1492, wine was stored or sold here without paying taxes, hence the name “Wine Gate”. However, some historians believe that this could be a linguistic deformation of an Arabic term.

The Palace of Charles V is one of the most unique buildings of the Alhambra monumental complex. It was built in the 16th century by Emperor Charles I of Spain after the Christian conquest of Granada, with the aim of establishing an imperial residence within the ancient Nasrid palatine city. The palace represents a clear break with the Islamic architecture of the rest of the ensemble, as it is designed in Renaissance style. His project was commissioned by the architect Pedro Machuca, who had worked in Italy and was inspired by classical Renaissance models. The building stands out for its square exterior plan and impressive circular interior courtyard surrounded by columns, considered one of the most important works of the Spanish Renaissance. Although its construction began in 1527, the works lasted for centuries and the palace was not completely completed until the twentieth century.

The Church of Santa Maria de la Alhambra is located in the heart of the Alhambra complex, next to Calle Real. It was built at the end of the 16th century on the former site of the main mosque of the Nasrid palatine city, after the Christian conquest of Granada in 1492. The temple was designed by architect Juan de Herrera, also known for his work on the Monastery of El Escorial. The church presents a sober Renaissance style, with a unique nave structure and side chapels, following the architectural models of the time. Inside it stands out the Baroque main altarpiece, as well as various religious images of great artistic value. The church is dedicated to the Virgin of Anguish, patron saint of Granada, whose image is processed every year from this temple during special celebrations.