The Generalife
Bordering the Alhambra, these Moorish gardens were designed to recreate the Paradise depicted in the Koran; lush, tranquil gardens with abundant running waters, linked by walkways and open terraces, where the Moorish royals and courtiers could rest in peaceful seclusion.
The main walk leads to the Patio de la Acequia at the heart the palace grounds. It is bordered by a gallery of 18 arches on the western side. The northern entrance the Mirador has five marble arches in front and three behind, and leads to the Patio de los Cipresos.
The Patio de los Cipresos - a particularly dark, concealed garden of sculpted junipers - houses a 700 year old cypress tree, marked with a plaque. According to legend, the Sultana Zoraya and her lover Hamet, chief of rival tribe the Abencerrajes held, beneath its boughs, their illicit liaisons that led to the gruesome downfall of his entire tribe.
If you are feeling energetic, a climb of the nearby Camino de las Cascadas should expend some energy. A staircase, with water flowing down its ornate stone balustrades, leads towards a charming fantasy palace where magnificent views of the surrounding area spread out before you.
Contact Details: Address: Avenida del Generalife s/n, 18009 Granada. Tel: 958 220 912
Website: For information: http://www.alhambradegranada.org/ ; For ticket purchase: http://www.alhambratickets.com/
Opening Hours: 1st November to 28th February: de Monday to Sunday, 8:30 to 18:00.
1st March to 31st October: from Monday to Sunday, 8:30 to 20:00.
Closed: 1st January and 25th December.
Entrance: Generalife Gardens only: €5.00. Visitors over 65 years and retired EU citizens: €3.00. Children under 8 and the Disabled free.
Getting there: Part of the Alhambra Complex. It is well signposted from all main road entry points into the city and from the city centre. Buses run regular shuttle services from the city centre.
Bookmark Attraction Add To Itinerary
There are currently no reviews of this attraction - why not write one!