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The city of Granada was known by the name of Elybyrge over two millenniums ago. The city grew under Roman rule, while in 711 AD, Spain came under Moorish rule, and the population converted to Islam. The Muslim leaders were generally tolerant and cooperated with the locals. This resulted in the introduction of new fruits such as lemons, oranges, and peaches to the farms. The city, now known as Illiberis, started expanding to the south. The name Granada was first used around 1000 AD.

The Christian reconquest of Spain was largely a fact in the early 1200s. Granada, however, remained a Muslim state for more than two centuries after this. It was finally re-conquered in 1492.

Granada currently has around a quarter of a million inhabitants. It is a famous university city and tourist attraction. One of the main attractions in the city is the fortress of Alhambra, featuring well-preserved architecture. The fortress was built in the 1200s, and it has undergone many renovations over time. It features a number of additional attractions, such as the Nasrid Palaces and the majestic Generalife Gardens, where outdoor concerts and other cultural events frequently take place. The towers of the fortress, which are part of the wall surrounding it, are the oldest structure in the complex, dating from the 700s.

At the other end of the historic continuum, we have the Granada Conference Centre, a state of the art modern building with ultra-contemporary equipment and technology. A lot of the most important events in the city take place here, including art and sculpture exhibits, concerts, theatrical performances, fashion shows, and various local celebrations.

One of the lesser-known attractions is the El Sacromonte district, situated in the historic gypsy district of the city. This district is very lively and charming and regularly features Flamenco dancing and similar shows.

Granada boasts a rich and exciting nightlife, attracting tourists from all over. Options include fiestas, outdoor concerts, al fresco dining, and more. The best clubs are at the Paseo de los Tristes, which also boasts an extensive selection of typical Spanish restaurants and tapas bars.

The Historic Baths of Granada were built over a millennium ago, dating from Moorish rule. The building is believed to predate the Moors, featuring Roman architecture. In the past, the baths were an important place to socialize. Today they are one of the oldest and best-preserved buildings in the city.

Finally, you should go and see the Alhambra Palace, where the Moorish rulers of the Nasrid dynasty resided. Built in the 14th century, the Palace features a plain exterior, a complex, elaborate ground plan, and intricate decorations, a superb example of Moorish art. The decorations are typical of the Moorish period, but there are some Byzantine elements, reminiscent of the contemporary Abassid architecture. Artists from this period continuously reproduced the same trends and forms, helping to create a unique style during the rule of the Nasrid Dynasty.

Other sights in Granada include Albazyn, the old Muslim quarter of Granada and Palacio Nazaries, one of the most beautiful Islamic buildings in Europe. The building has an elaborate vaulting and exquisite wooden ceilings, all worked in geometrical and symbolic patterns. The Gothic-Renaissance cathedral was constructed by Diego de Siloe in 1563. It was not until the 18th century when work on the cathedral was finally completed.



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