GARDENS OF THE ALHAMBRA
Wander Through The
Greneralife
Generalife Gardens: history and curiosities
Have you ever wondered what the Generalife is? In this article, we briefly explore the history and interesting facts about its gardens. Join us on this journey to discover the secrets that make this place a unique and fascinating destination for the many tourists who have visited it over the years.
What is the Generalife?
It is one of the most emblematic and beautiful corners of the city of Granada, together with the Alhambra. and where you can visit the Patio de la Acequia, the Patio del Ciprés de la Sultana and finally the Jardines Altos by the Escalera del Agua.
Did you know that the gardens of the Generalife, along with those of the Alhambra, are the oldest gardens in Europe? To give you an idea of what the Hispano-Muslim gardens were like, the Generalife in Granada is the only example that remains today.
Today, it remains a authentic symbol of Andalusian architecture and is one of the most visited areas of the city by a multitude of tourists who want to know what the Generalife is and learn more about it.
Today, it remains a authentic symbol of Andalusian architecture and is one of the most visited areas of the city by a multitude of tourists who want to know what the Generalife is and learn more about it.
Generalife Gardens: history
Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Generalife is a palace that is located on the Sabika hill and was used as a country house and resting place by the Muslim kings. It is also surrounded by orchards and fruit gardens that were used in the Nasrid period to supply the Alhambra.
In 1984 it was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco.
Acequia Courtyard
Data from the Nasrid period although it has undergone various modifications over the years and is one of the most emblematic spaces in the Generalife.
In it you can find the Acequia Real, it was responsible for bringing the water from a dam to the Generalife and then distributing it to the Alhambra.
Sultana Cypress Courtyard
This space was originally intended for the palace’s bathing facilities, so virtually nothing remains today, except for the canal’s water inlet.
In 1584, the porticoed building that houses the present-day Patio del Ciprés de la Sultana was erected. and the result of the transformation is a baroque-style garden.
Lower Gardens
Built between 1931 and 1951, interpreting the Muslim garden. Originally this was a supply area for the whole palace and was later transformed into the current Lower Gardens, with the aim of unifying the Alhambra with the Generalife in a more visual way.
High Gardens
Landscaped in the 19th century the gardens are accessed by a steep staircase that starts from the Patio del Ciprés de la Sultana (Sultana’s Cypress Courtyard). From these gardens you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Alhambra.
In the Altos del Generalife Gardens the transition of landscape art between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance can be observed.
Why are they called the gardens of the Generalife?
Now that you know what the Generalife is, what is its name? The origin of the name of the Generalife (in Arabic Jannat al-‘Arif), although of dubious provenance, has been the subject of different interpretations, one of which says it comes from the ‘Garden of the Architect in a clear poetic-religious symbolism that alludes to God, Allah, as architect, creator of the Universe, and another says it means ’Garden of Paradise”.
How long does it take to see the Generalife gardens?
The length of the visit to the gardens of the Generalife will depend on the visitor’s interest and pace, but in general, it is recommended that you spend at least between 1.5 and 3 hours to tour and get to know its main areas.
This work made it possible to recover hidden details and ensure the preservation of one of the most valuable pieces in the monumental complex.
See The Generalife For Yourself
Are you thinking of visiting the Generalife Gardens? Although they’re open every day and you can visit any day of the week, remember to plan your visit in advance if you don’t want to miss out on tickets due to high demand.
It’s not enough just to know what the Generalife is. It’s a place you have to see to believe, so book your visit with us and immerse yourself in its history.