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Location Date Sat, 26 March 2011 1301138138 Mon, 07 February 2011 
1297092279 Tue, 01 February 2011 1296566958
The Alhambra
In order to reach the walls of the magnificent and enticing Alhambra, you need to trek up a steep and stony path. Once you have contributed some sweat and are regretting the fact you are not in better shape, the two tall wooden entrance doors to the Alhambra fortress appear. Suddenly, your breath is regained as you gasp at the ancient jewel. Beyond this threshold lies a sight you have never seen before nor will ever see again. Three descriptions come to mind when summing up my experience of the Alhambra; antiquity, geometric intricacy, and overwhelming beauty.
Antiquity
The Alhambra, literally "the red one," was built by the Moors in Granada in the 1300s. The palaces were built for the Muslim Emirs during the Nasrid Dynasty. This fortress was used by the Moors as a place of refuge during the Spanish Reconquista. Of course, the outcome of the Reconquista changed how the Alhambra was used, falling into the hands of Christian rulers. But the Moorish style still pervades the northern quarter of the city today.
Geometric Intricacy
The interior decoration of the Alhambra palaces represent the end of the era of Andalusian art. Every wall, ceiling, and floor are covered in geometric patterns, complementing colors, and interwoven textures which accentuate this superior artistry. It is hard to believe just how much work and expertise went into every inch of each palace. They are all alike in their grandeur, yet each has its own character in terms of architecture, geometric style, and overall feel given off inside. After seeing more than four palaces, it becomes almost overwhelming to be in such a place of mastery and prowess.
Overwhelming Beauty
In Moorish poetry, the Alhambra is described as "a pearl set in emeralds". Its ivory-colored walls and lush green gardens prove this description very accurate. The plans for the construction of the Alhambra included an aqueduct system that allowed water access to the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace called Generalife. This was the favorite part of my visit. I felt like the little girl in The Secret Garden, having just discovered an ancient, clandestine haven all to myself to enjoy. My nose filled with the subtle fragrances of flowers and my ears with the quiet sprinkle from the fountains as I quietly brushed my feet along the stone paths through the tall hedges. After a labyrinth of greenery, I came upon a sweeping view of northern Granada, speckled with the Andalusian white and blue houses. I was not only overwhelmed with the beauty, but also the peace.
I can understand clearly why people felt at ease in the Alhambra in times of war. Even today, I could feel the refuge the Alhambra has to offer.
______________________________________________________________
Shout outs of today's blog go to:
To all: 10 brownie points to anyone who can correctly guess what the Alhambra's literal name, "the red one," refers to!
Mary Catherine: I went to a doner kebab and it was the best late night snack I've ever had. Satisfied all my cravings!
Mom: When I showed my host mom Eloisa your picture, she said you are "buena gente," meaning a good person, or, a gentlewoman.
Hasta la próxima,
Rachel
- comments
Andrew Frantz Is it the red one because of the clay/brick that it's made of?
Kathy (Mom) I am going to guess that red is often a color associated with royalty. You said it was built for the Muslim Emirs in the 1300's. Perhaps it has a reddish tint, especially in the sunset. I am using my imagination a bit! Love, Mom
Michael I'm gonna agree with Andrew, but maybe my answer doesn't count, ;-) Your blog entry has only whetted my appetite to see the Granada - if it's as beautiful as your description and writing then I can't wait.
Mary Catherine your descriptions are beautiful!! I'm guessing it's red because they love the red sauce on the doner kebab which I am so glad you tried!
Savta Now you know why I so wanted you to go to the Alhambra. You are so fortunate that you have the opportunity to go back many times. Hopefully you will paint your interpretations of the palace and surroundings. LOL, Savta
Abba Great description and interesting question. Why is it that a structure named Al-Qal‘at al-Ḥamrā’ "the red fortress" is at the same time described as "a pearl set in emeralds?" After all, a pearl is not red. The fortress was painted (or whitewashed) to a pearl-like color when it was named. So I do not think it refers to the red clay bricks from which it was made. I will guess instead it is named for the most remarkable and poetic time of day, when the glow of the setting sun set it afire. Love, Abba
Me Alright, I think I have given you all enough time! I have really enjoyed reading all of your answers. Mom - good imagination and thinking outside the box. Abba - very creative and beautiful imagery. Mary - that would be an absolutely delicious answer. But the 10 brownie points go to... Andrew and Michael! The Alhambra literally means the red one because of the red bricks it was originally made from! Congratulations =) I will get you guys a brownie when I return haha. Miss you and talk to you all soon!
Atoz Glad you made it there too! It is indeed a rraaekmble place, as I'd mentioned in an earlier post. Can you imagine living there when it was at its cultural height? It seemed futile for the Reyes Catolicos to attempt to change Morrish splendor like this into any kind of celebration of the Church. It was just impossible to over-write the lush mid-eastern influence. It is a profound experience to enter the massive studded gates of the Hall of Justice and stand there below the immense gallery, open to the dommed roof, and imagine being hauled in there accused of anything to stand before judgement of the Sultan. His throne room was no less imposing. And those in contrast with the delicate screened passageways and elegant hidden rooms of the harem. What atmosphere!