The Alhambra is a 13th- and 14th-century palace and fortress complex built by the Nasrid dynasty on a plateau above Granada. The Nasrid Palaces are the highlight — rooms like the Court of the Lions and the Hall of the Ambassadors showcase Islamic decorative arts at their most refined, with intricate stucco work, carved wooden ceilings, and tile mosaics covering every surface. The Generalife gardens next door, with their terraced walkways and water channels, offer a quieter counterpart.
The complex also includes the Alcazaba (the oldest fortified section, with panoramic views from the watchtower), the Renaissance-era Palace of Charles V, and several smaller structures scattered across the grounds.
Book tickets well in advance — entry to the Nasrid Palaces is limited to timed slots and they sell out days or weeks ahead, especially in spring and autumn. Morning light is best for the palace interiors, but late afternoon has the advantage of smaller crowds and golden light on the walls. Allow at least three hours for a proper visit.