ANDALUSIA

If you can only visit one place during your trip to Andalusia, it should be the Alhambra in Granada. The Alhambra is a massive complex of watchtowers, ornate palaces and lush gardens where sultans and kings lived and where European history was made. It is indeed one of the best examples of Moorish architecture in the world.

Some parts of the Alhambra date back to the 9^th century, however, its golden era is exemplified in the Nasrid Palaces from the 13^th century. When you wander through the numerous palaces, you will understand why they were considered to be the crown jewel of the Moorish world and why, after the reconquest, Ferdinand and Isabella made it their primary residence. The amount of detailed tile work, ornate geometric stuccos, and hand carved wood work will certainly leave you impressed. Inside, you will also find the Patio de los Leones (Patio of the Lions), which is the Alhambra’s crème de la crème and the most photographed area.

The Alhambra is much more than just the Nasrid palaces and it spans an enormous space. There is a lot to see and a lot of history to take in. For that reason, we definitely recommend to take part in a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Córdoba’s majestic mosque is one of the world’s greatest works of Islamic architecture as well as a symbol of the sophisticated Islamic culture that flourished in Cordoba while it was the capital of Al-Andalus.

The mosque, which commenced construction in 785 AD, is truly special because it was never destroyed by the conquering Christian forces, who took control of the city in 1236. Instead, it was repurposed as a church and added onto, leaving behind centuries of history in a single building. The best example of this is the massive cathedral that was built in the center of the mosque complex in the 16^th century. In many ways, the building itself is a collaboration of all the one-time rulers on the Iberian Peninsula.

Apart from the impressive interior of the mosque, its courtyard, known as the Patio de los Naranjos (The Patio of the Orange trees), is always free to visit. Next to the patio is the 17^th century Bell Tower which was built over the remains of the mosque’s minaret. With its height of 54m (177ft), it offers some of the best views of the city.

Flamenco is a passionate art form of music and dance that has developed over the centuries in Andalucia. This ancestral art is still very much alive today. Flamenco is at the core of Andalusian culture. It’s part of festivities, celebrations and also every day life. It’s in their blood.

You will see Flamenco’s influence just about everywhere in Andalucia. You may even see an impromptu show on the street. But to really experience it, you should definitely check out one of the many flamenco venue’s found throughout the area. Shows are performed by professionals who live the flamenco lifestyle to the fullest. There is a lot of improvisation as well as jaleo, which can be translated as “fuss” or “disturbance” and it is made up by a lot of hand clapping, foot stomping and shouting. Shouts like “¡Olé!” and “¡Guapa!” (pretty) are very common. A good flamenco show is highly entertaining.

In 2010, flamenco was declared one of the Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. If you are interested in seeing some flamenco while you are in Andalusia check out our flamenco page which has recommendations for every city.

The picturesque white town of Ronda is famous for its fascinating cliff-side setting along the Tajo gorge and the monumental New Bridge that spans across it. If it looks impressive in photos, wait until you see it in person – it will take your breath away.

Ronda’s old Moorish quarter is surreally perched on the side of a cliff, which surrounds the town in almost 360 degrees. This exceptional location made it perfect for a fortified enclave, even having its own water source from the Guadalevín river below. Besides the bridge and the gorge, Ronda is also the birthplace of modern bullfighting and home to one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. Its bullfighting museum tells the interesting story of how bullfighting grew from the need to train horses for war.

Beyond the New Bridge and bullfighting heritage, Ronda still retains its historic charm and is a pleasure to get lost in. Its extraordinary location, along the walls of the canyon, makes for a myriad of amazing views waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s by wandering the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoying a cold drink on a veranda next to the New Bridge, or just watching the birds glide through the canyon – Ronda is a town that begs visitors to slow down, take in its beauty and relax.