Before leaving on out trip to Spain. I had very little time to research our trip. While visiting with Uncle Jim he had suggested that we must see the Alhambra of Granada. I had read a few things about it but didn't really know how amazing it was. The Alhambra was a fortress built by the Arabic in the 9th century. In the 13th/14th century it was converted into a Palace complex adjoined to a small town. After the Christan conquest of Granada the Mosque was converted into a Church. In the 18th century it was abandoned to thieves and beggars. In 1870 it was declared a national monument as a result of the huge interest stirred by romantic writers. It now enjoys a UNESCO World Heritage status.
In my experience it was truly amazing. The grounds were immaculately cared for. The Generalife Gardens were some of most beautiful I've ever seen. The Palacio Nazaries is definitely the highlight of the Alhambra. The rooms and courtyards are perfectly proportioned, with intricately molded stucco walls, beautiful tiling, fine carved wooded ceilings and elaborate stalactite like vaulting, all worked in mesmerizing, symbolic geometric patterns. When you buy your ticket for the Alhambra, which we did in advance over the phone, and is highly recommended. You have to chose AM or PM then you get 30 minute time slot to enter the Palacio Nazaries. They do this so you don't have to wait in lines and can enjoy the rest of the Alhambra while waiting for your window. The tile work and ceilings were what truly impressed me.
After six hours exploring the grounds we head out of town to cut the time of our drive towards Toledo tomorrow. We spent the night in Jaen and watch Spain win one of there world cup games. Watching the locals go crazy over the cup was a highlight of our trip. The whole city stooped and watched the game. It was a truly cool thing to see. I wish the USA had the passion of the worlds sport real Football.
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