Granada (Spain)

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Southern Spain is the Andalusian gem known as Grenada. This former Moorish city has churches that were once mosques, bakeries that were public baths and shops that were tea houses. The city is Spain’s biggest attraction and the Alhambra is Granada’s biggest draw.

The Alhambra is the most visited site in all of Spain and with 2 million visitors a year; the place was first built in the 9 century and additions were made in the 13th and 14 centuries by the Moorish Nasrid Dynasty. After re-conquest, the Spanish re-decorated its interiors and replaced the mosque with a church. Entry is restricted to a limited number, so book your ticket in advance.

The Albaicin was the Moorish town and you can still see remnants of that culture. The Carrera del Darro which runs beside the modest Darro River has numerous small arched bridges. Most streets are too narrow for cars, so wear comfortable shoes.

Sierra Nevada National Park is Spain’s largest and stretches 320 sq. miles. The park has ski resorts and Spain’s tallest mountain, the 11,000ft Mulhacen. The Dehesa del Generalife is another nearby wildlife preserve and has trails that lead to old ruins and offers some great views.

Arab baths were public baths and much frequented by the Moors. Most were turned into bakeries by the Spanish as they all had large boilers. El Bañuelo is the last Arab bathhouse to remain intact in all of Spain but its non-operational. If you are looking to use one, visit Al Hammam Al Andalus, which is active.

The Flamenco is as Spanish as the bullfight and Sacromonte is the place this dance was born. The Sacromonte caves, or Zambras as they are called, are just a couple of km from Granada. The caves were initially created by the Arabs but taken over by the Gypsies in the 15th century. Ticket prices range between 20 to 30 Euros.

Historical Center is a small neighborhood next to the Albaicín, and the main attractions here are the basilicas and churches. This area is also filled with cafes, tapas bars, and shops. Nearby is the Federico García Lorca Center, dedicated to the writer and his possessions and other international artists as well. The Basilica de San Juan de Dios has its interior patio almost all covered in gold and is a stunning sight when lit by natural light streaming through the windows.

The summer rush will begin soon so make preparations now if you are planning to go in the near future. Last minute rush will only cost you more and will not get you the kind of deals that make a journey pleasant. Get Centrum’s Multi-Currency forex card with its pin and chip security for your travel expenses and don’t forget to pick up travel insurance from www.buyforex.com as well.