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The Alhambra

Splendid Moorish Fortress in Spain

By , About.com Guide

The Alhambra is a fabulous fortress in Granada, Spain, built between 1248 and 1354. The name Alhambra is Arabic for "red" and may be derived from the color of the outer walls. Though the exterior of the fortress is mostly square and even dull, splendid Islamic art and architectural design is notable in many interior rooms, courtyards and gardens.

For a detailed history and description of this splendid palace, be sure to visit the extensive article from the 1911 encyclopedia.

Do you have photos of the Alhambra or another historic location you'd like to share at the Medieval History site? Please contact me with the details.

Images 1-12 of 19

Exterior view of the fortressAlhambra BuildingsNice shot of a tower, taken from the shelter of tree branchesAlhambra TowerIntriciate Islamic carving surrounds an archwayWall DetailStriking architectural features reflected in a still poolThe Partal
Marble lions support a fountainCourtyard of the LionsA red stone Alhambra tower among the treesAlcazaba TowerPanoramic ViewCourtyardSummer PalaceGeneralife
Inside the summer palaceGeneralife InteriorFountains in a garden of the GeneralifeGarden of the SultanaIntricate carving of an arched alcoveDetail of Wall CarvingThe city and the surrounding countrysideView of Granada

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