Alhambra Fortress
13th–14th Century Nasrid · Islamic Palatial-Military
The supreme masterpiece of Islamic architecture in Europe, the Alhambra is a palace-fortress of unparalleled beauty. Its courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings represent the pinnacle of Nasrid art.
The Alhambra — from the Arabic 'Al-Qal'a al-Hamra' The Red Fortress — began as a small fortress in the 9th century before being rebuilt as a palatial complex by the Nasrid dynasty beginning in 1238. Muhammad I, founder of the Nasrid kingdom, established his court here, and successive sultans transformed it into the most spectacular palace in the Islamic world. The complex reached its zenith under Yusuf I 1333–1354 and Muhammad V 1354–1391 , who created the Court of the Lions, the Hall of the Ambassadors, and the Comares Palace. Every surface was covered in intricate geometric patterns, callig…