Alhambra

One very special place that we were fortunate enough to visit was a place called Alhambra.  When we arrived in Granada (our first stop in Spain) everyone told us it was the one place in town not to miss--and it did not disappoint.

Alhambra is a Muslim "palace fortress" built in the mid-10th century.  According to Wikipedia the palace was built for the last Muslim Emirs in Spain.  When the area was reconquered by the Christians, more modern, Christian influences were incorporated into additions and gardens.  The palace is enormous--it took the better part of the entire day for us to explore the entire complex, and I'm sure there are hidden treasures that we missed.

-Sean

The people in the picture below with us are our new friends Carlos and Claudia (who were from Argentina and simultaneously visiting their old friend, and Mateo's Dad, Roberto)--this is us in front of a gate near the entrance of Alhambra:

This incredible stonework covered much of the paths through the complex:

Hedge terraces--made me think of looking into a double mirror:

It's hard to convey the depth of detail that the ceilings, window, and practically every wall showcased in the complex:

The complex was also something of a "walled city."  These are the remaining foundations of houses:

The Pateo de los Leones (Court of the Lions).  You can just make out the fountain surrounded by 12 lions.  The fountains and aqueducts were filled and running with water throughout the complex.  A truly ingenious system for transporting water.

This gives you some idea of how big the place is.  This is just a section of the complex, as seen from one of it's many towers:

The palace was located on top of a large hill above the city, and offered incredible views of Granada below: