19-05-2011
I cannot believe it but it is cold in Granada.
After some medication was willing to attempt a visit to the Alhambra. From not having heard of Granada till a week ago to finding out that the Alhambra is one of the most visited spots in Spain, I am astounded at my ignorance.
The Alhambra, the tickets to visit the Nasrid Palace were obviously sold out but the lady at the information showed us a way to get around it. Evening visit to the rest of the Alhambra and a separate night (2200) visit to the Palace. We got the last set of night tickets to the Palace, phew!
It is a massive place requiring time to see and admire it all. Built by the Arabic rulers many centuries ago and then taken over by the Christian kings. The sky was cloudy , drizzling at times, it somehow added to the charm of the Alcazar , the fortress. I am not exactly sure but it reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, the name as well as the place. A few towers that were open to visitors, one of them with a massive bell , had excellent views of the town especially the cathedral. The tower of Prisoners and the one of Princesses were shut but were big enough to have courtyards inside. Next was Charles the fifth's Palace, the acoustics due to which concerts are held here could be well appreciated in the first floor. Walked through well kept gardens, beds of roses and trimmed hedges to reach Generallife. This was the area where the royal family relaxed away from the prying eyes of the public. There is an abundance of fountains in the area ( I love fountains,flowing water has a very soothing effect) . Some nestled in the gardens, others filling courtyards.
Went down the hill to have dinner and then climbed back up at night for the Nasrid Palace visit. The lack of tour groups, restricted number of people along with the 90 minutes slot rather than the 30 minutes in the day made it a perfect time to visit. I am glad we did it at night, the palace is not bright and shiny but shadowy with a soft glow giving it a mystical feel( not so good for the photos). Each wall, ceiling , window is beautifully carved and decorated , at night no flaws are apparent. There are open courtyards with glistening pools of water. The lion fountain courtyard was under renovation , was disappointed about not seeing the lions till we came to the last room where the lions stood majestically having been restored to their formal glory.
Walked back to the hotel, past midnight, amazed at the bustling streets and open shops. No need to rush for a ticket to the palace tomorrow, looking forward to a late rise.
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