Granada Vacations, Granada Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Granada was first settled by native tribes in prehistoric times, and later Romans built their own city there, which was later ruled by Moors. Granada was the last Muslim city to fall to Christian conquest in 1492, at the hands of Queen Isabel and her husband Ferdinand. One of the most brilliant jewels of world architecture is found here, a witnesses to the Arab golden age: the Alhambra palaces and gardens.

Apart from this masterpiece, Granada is famous for its university, its ideal location (close to both sea and mountain), and the two main old quarters, Albaicin and Sacromonte. These were built upon a hill and offer majestic views over the city, surrounding (snow-covered) mountains and the Alhambra.

The name Granada is ancient and mysterious. It may mean great castle, for the Roman fortress which once stood on the Albaicin Hill. When the Moors came, the town was largely inhabited by Jews, for which they called it Garnat-al-Yahud - Palace of the Jews. But these days, the name most certainly makes one think of the beautiful Alhambra palace, one of the most precious architectural treasures in Spain (and the entire world).

There is an old saying regarding the Alhambra - Si has muerto sin ver la Alhambra, no has vivido! (If you have died without seeing the Alhambra, you have not lived.)

Granada is also a university city with over 50.000 students and therefore it has a great night life with small cafés and good restaurants.