La Alhambra [1], located above the Spanish city of Granada is one of the most important relics in Spain.

Today, the monument is divided into four main areas: the Palaces, the military zone or Alcazaba, the city or Medina and the agricultural estate of the Generalife. All of these areas are surrounded by woods, gardens and orchards.

Understand

The Alhambra was a palace, a citadel, fortress, and the home of the Nasrid sultans, high government officials, servants of the court and elite soldiers (from the 13th to the 14th century).

Other notable buildings belonging to a different time period are also included, such as the Renaissance style Palace of Charles V, which houses the Alhambra Museum (most of the items are from the site of the monument) and the Fine Art Museum.

See

In order to fully appreciate the unique architecture of the Alhambra set within the surrounding landscape, it is advisable to visit an area of the Albaicín called the Mirador de San Nicolás, or go to Sacromonte. From both of these places the Alhambra's spectacular location, lying just above the city of Granada, can really be admired.

Visiting

The Alhambra is a busy attraction and the number of visitors allowed is limited. You should book your tickets at least one day in advance:

• on line
• phone: 902 22 44 60 calling from Spain, 00 34 91 537 91 78 from outside Spain.

General admission is €10. You may also consider the Granada city pass which is available for €22.50.

Timing

Visiting hours are split into 3 periods: morning, afternoon, and evening. Tickets are issued for a specific period and access to monuments will not be granted outside those hours. However, once inside visitors may remain until closing time. In addition, each ticket is scheduled for access to the Nasrid Palaces for only a 1/2-hour time window (shown on the ticket) within your visiting period.

Evening visits only include the Nasrid Palaces!

Opening hours

Ticket office closes one hour before attraction.