Alhambra
|
Posted On :
Jun-11-2010
| seen (744) times |
Article Word Count :
417
|
|
Alhambra, meaning red fortress in Arabic is a royal palace constructed by Moorish rulers during 14th century in the city of Andalusia, Spain. After being subjected to repairs it was left unnoticed for hundred of years and brought to light by European scholars and travelers in the later part of 19th century.
|
Alhambra, meaning red fortress in Arabic is a royal palace constructed by Moorish rulers during 14th century in the city of Andalusia, Spain. After being subjected to repairs it was left unnoticed for hundred of years and brought to light by European scholars and travelers in the later part of 19th century. Alhambra is now the World’s Heritage Site by UNESCO and also one of the major tourist attractions in Spain. It exhibits most distinctive features of Islamic architecture, attracting thousands of visitors each day.
The plateau where Alhambra is situated is 2430 feet by length and 670 feet by width, covering a huge 142,000 square meters. It comprises a citadel, enclosed by fortified wall, with thirteen towers, thus providing great defense for the palace inside. The unique feature of this fortress lies in the integration of Muslims, Jewish, and Christian architectural skills, and it stands as an evidence of Moorish culture. During the period of Nasrid dynasty, irrigation system for the palace was set up which provided water for the Generalife gardens also.
Alhambra encompasses important courtyards, and royal halls, Alcazaba fortress, the Myrtle courtyard, the Hall of La Barca, the Ambassadors Hall, the Lions Courtyard, the Royal Baths, the Hall of Abencerrajes, and the Palace of Charles V. If you are visiting this palace for the first time, the stunningly beautiful and breathtaking architecture will take you back to historical period. You will definitely wonder the quality of the architecture which stands as the Spain’s pride, even after several hundred years of its origin.
Alhambra looks a lot like Christian monopoly in its three fold arrangement as a palace, as a castle and as a residence for subordinates. The citadel of this palace is the oldest part which underwent many repairs and additions after its construction. After passing through the main entrance, you can see a horseshoe archway, which was called Gate of Judgment. After this, a narrow channel leads you to an open space which separates Alcazaba from the Royal palace. There is a small door which connects to the Court of Blessing or Court of Pond. It was believed that the pool had mystical powers that its water never evaporated.
The Hall of the Ambassadors in Alhambra served as grand reception room, containing nine windows, and the ceiling is decorated with circles, and stars of various colors. Other important places in this palace are Hall of Justice, Court of the Vestibule, Queen’s Robing Room which are lavishly decorated.
|
|
Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Alhambra_21804.aspx
|
Author Resource :
Read About Vakantiehuis Costa Brava and Vakantiehuis Mallorca and also read
royal palace , palace constructed, royal palace constructed, alhambra encompasses,
Category :
Travel and Leisure
:
Travel Tips
|
|
|