Granada City Information
Facts: Granada is located in the eastern part of Andalucia at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains (only 60 km from the Mediterranean sea) and has a population of nearly 300,000. It has a diverse climate changing from a sunny Mediterranean summer to some snow in the winter. The town is also located near Sevilla and Malaga and is within a 4-hour drive from Madrid.
History: The history, monuments and architecture of Granada have been particularly influenced by the Moors who first settled in Granada in 711. Before this period Granada had been colonized by the Romans and was a Visigoth town at the time of the Moors invasion.
In the 9th century Granada became one of the most important Moorish towns in Spain and with the Nazari Dynasty founded in 1238 Granada reached its splendor. Granada was the last Arab city in Spain to fall to the Christians in 1492.
Today Granada is a modern city and one of the most important university towns in Spain with more than 60,000 students (also known as the intellectual center of Andalucia).
Attractions: Under the Nazari Dynasty the great Alhambra (see photo above), a fortress and palace in the same construction, was built. The Alhambra is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is a unique example of the splendid Moorish architecture, which has now been declared a world heritage site. Granada also hosts other interesting attractions such as the Generalife (a fortress), the Albazin (a historic part of Granada known for its unique mix of Arab and Christian architecture) and the cathedral where Isabel and Ferdinand lie buried (the Christian queen and king who expulsed the Arabs in 1492).
"Close to Granada lies the famous ski sport Sierra Nevada (see photo right) where it is possible to ski between December and April as well as rock climbing, trekking and mountain biking the rest of the year.
Going Out: Because of the many students living in Granada, it has a very active nightlife every day of the week. When the weather permits, students organize small fiestas (parties) in the streets and parks. Otherwise you can go for a tapa (Spanish snack) or enjoy one of the many cultural activities (musicals, theaters) held all year around.