Torre de la Vela of Alcazaba Fortress in Alhambra Granada
The Alcazaba, the oldest and most fortified part of the Alhambra, located at the western tip of the complex beckoned us as we exited the Palace of Charles V. Its thick stone walls, narrow pathways, and sturdy towers immediately commanded attention, a reminder of its military might. This ancient fortress once guarded the entire Alhambra, and now, it was guarding a piece of history we were eager to explore.
We had set our sights on the Alcazaba before our much-anticipated visit to the Nasrid Palace. Our ticket for the Nasrid Palaces had a strict entry time—6 PM sharp—and we needed to be at the gate at least half an hour beforehand. This looming deadline lingered in the back of my mind the entire time, making it hard to fully relax and take in the Alcazaba’s beauty. We had to move quickly through its impressive sights, making sure not to miss the Torre de la Vela, the tower that once kept watch over Granada.
History of Alcazaba Fortress
Alcazaba existed even before the Muslims arrived here in Granada Spain. The place is believed to have several constructions, probably some from Roman times. As I stood at the Alcazaba, perched on the western tip of the Sabika hill, I imagined the centuries of history that unfolded here. Nestled against the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the natural defensive position of the fortress made perfect sense. This strategic location had been fortified since the 9th century.
Flipping through the pages of history—or rather, scouring the web for more details—I discovered that a fortress once stood on the south side of the Darro River, known as Ġarnāṭa. This settlement, mainly Jewish, was called Gharnāṭat al-Yahūd. During the first Taifas period in the 11th century, Granada rose to prominence as the centre of the Zirid kingdom, whose rulers lived in a citadel and palace atop Albaicín hill, known as the al-Qaṣaba al-Qadīma—the Old Palace.
This ancient citadel was connected to two other fortresses, one on the Sabika hill, where I now stood, and another on Mauror hill to the south. The fortress here was once known as the al-Qasaba al-Jadida, or the New Citadel. In those days, it was likely far more modest than the grand Alcazaba we see today.
Alcazaba was first built in 9th century by Sawwar ben Hamdun during the fights between Muslims and muwalladins (Christians who converted to the Islam and lived among the Muslims).
Today what we get to see was built by Mohammed I. He built 3 new towers: Broken Tower, Keep and Watch Tower and constructed the ramparts around the previous castle. The site got the look of fortress and was used for military purposes.
Muslim reign from here lasted for more than 7 centuries. The Christians who took over the city used Alcazaba fortress as state prison during French occupation.
Alcazaba Fortress Alhambra hides all the beauty of the Nasrid Palaces
Interesting Facts of Alcazaba in Alhambra Granada Spain
Here are some interesting facts about the Alcazaba fortress in the Alhambra of Granada, Spain:
Ancient Origins: The Alcazaba, oldest part of the Alhambra complex, dates back to the 9th century. Alcazaba was originally constructed as a military fortress by the Zirid dynasty and served as a strategic stronghold during the Islamic period.
Impressive Architecture: The Alcazaba showcases a combination of Moorish and military architectural styles. Its robust defensive walls, towers, and bastions demonstrate its strategic importance and reflect the military engineering of the time.
Double Defensive Walls: The Alcazaba features a unique double wall system. The outer walls form an irregular polygon, providing an additional layer of protection. The inner walls, built with ashlar masonry, surround the heart of the fortress, reinforcing its defensive capabilities.
Tower of Homage: The central feature of the Alcazaba is the Torre de la Vela, also known as the Tower of Homage. It served as a watchtower and a strategic point for communication through the lighting of fires or the ringing of bells. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Granada and the surrounding countryside.
Water Supply System: The Alcazaba had an elaborate water supply system to sustain its occupants during sieges. It included wells, underground cisterns, and a system of channels that brought water from the nearby Darro River. The Patio de los Aljibes (Courtyard of the Cisterns) within the Alcazaba housed large water reservoirs to ensure a reliable water source.
Historical Events: The Alcazaba witnessed several historical events. In 1492, the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella entered the Alcazaba after the conquest of Granada, symbolizing the end of Muslim rule in the region. Additionally, during the Spanish Civil War, the Alcazaba served as a military outpost.
Conservation Efforts: The Alcazaba has undergone extensive restoration and conservation work to preserve its historical and architectural significance. These efforts have helped maintain its structural integrity and allowed visitors to experience the fortress as it once stood.
Gateway to the Alhambra: The Alcazaba serves as the main entrance to the Alhambra complex. Passing through its fortified gates and walking its ancient paths provides a captivating introduction to the grandeur and beauty of the entire Alhambra site.
The Alcazaba fortress in the Alhambra stands as a testament to the military prowess and architectural achievements of its time. Exploring its walls and towers was like stepping back in time. that helped appreciate the history and heritage of Granada, Spain.
Tour of Alacazaba Fortress
The tour of Alcazaba Fortress rewarded us with exotic views of Granada city and plenty of exercise. Steep stairs to top, breezy enough to blow your hair on your face, pleasant evening sun and then wonderful views to photograph, the tour was worth every second of it.
We walked through the remains of ruins, mostly uneven terrain towards the biggest tower. It is a huge complex and the tour ideally takes one hour even if you decide to skip some of the steep parts. However, my time frame for this sight in Alhambra was just 30 minutes, after which I had to hurry to the Nasrid Palace gates. Take water and snacks along, there is no water source inside and climbing can be tiring on a hot day.
A small legend I read on this fort is:
When Christians took over the fort, the fleeing Moorish King looked back and wept, when his mother chided him saying, “You weep like a woman for what you couldn’t defend like a man!”
view from Alcazaba Fortress Alhambra Granada
What to see in Alcazaba Fortress Granada?
In the Alhambra complex, the Alcazaba is the oldest and most fortified part of the site. Here are some notable features worth seeing in the Alcazaba:
The Alcazaba is characterized by its impressive towers and defensive walls. The main towers, such as the Torre de la Vela and the Torre Quebrada, offer breath taking panoramic views of Granada and the surrounding areas. We hurriedly climbed to the top of these towers and were well rewarded with scenic views of the Alhambra and the city.
As a military stronghold, the Alcazaba showcases defensive structures and architectural elements designed for protection. The thick walls, battlements, and fortified gates that once guarded the entrance to the fortress would speak stories only if I had the time to stand and listen.
Within the Alcazaba, you’ll find courtyards that offer peaceful retreats. The Patio de los Aljibes (Courtyard of the Cisterns) features beautiful gardens and two large water reservoirs, highlighting the importance of water supply in the fortress. In earlier days the water supply was guaranteed by a cistern on site as well as by a wall with towers that descended down to the Darro River, allowing soldiers to safely collect water and bring it back up to the fortress.
View from Alcazaba Fortress Alhambra Granada
If you have time enough explore the Archaeological Museum located within the Alcazaba. The Archaeological Museum here displays a collection of artifacts that provide insights into the history and evolution and the cultures that inhabited the Alhambra complex over the centuries.
The Alcazaba is a historically important site as it represents the Moorish presence in Granada and the period of Islamic rule in Spain. While the Nasrid Palaces often steal the spotlight, the Alcazaba is an essential part of the Alhambra complex. Its defensive structures, courtyards, and historical significance contribute to the overall charm and allure of the Alhambra in Granada.
4 Flags on Torre de la Vela
There are 4 flags on top of the Torre de la Vela (watchtower) at the Alcazaba of the Alhambra in Granada. The tower’s 4 flags represent: the Andalusian flag, the Grenadian flag, the European flag, and the Spanish flag.
- blue of the European Union
- the green and white of Andalucia
- red and yellow of Spain
- red and green of Granada
Which part of Alhambra is the Alcazaba Fortress located?
The Alcazaba is situated at the western tip of the Sabika hill, a promontory projecting from the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. It is in the west end of the monumental site.
How much time required for touring Alcazaba Fortress?
Ideally the fortress requires one hour for exploring it well.
Alcazaba Fortress Alhambra Granada Tickets
There are no separate tickets to Alcazaba Fortress in Alhambra. Keep your Alhambra Entry Tickets safe while you tour and enjoy the different sights of Alhambra. You will have to show the tickets at the entrance to Alcazaba.
If by any chance you miss out the daily quota of tickets to Nasrid Palace you can buy day tickets for Visit to the Gardens, the Alcazaba Fortress and Generalife Palace and Gardens. The tickets without Nasrid Palace entry will cost:
• Adults: 7.00 €
• Children under 12: Free entry.
More Travel Blogs on Alhambra Granada
Alhambra Tickets Last Minute Adventure
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such a lovely narration indrani di..i felt i walking with you!!
You got wonderful views from the fort and I could understand how tough it must be climbing to the top that too in hot weather cond. nice detail on history and existence.
The first two pictures provide the indepth of the magnificent fort with so much history gone into it.The next two pictures captured from top are incredible and awesome.
I had forgotten that the Moors were in Spain for so many centuries!
Amazing shots! I loved the third one, captured from a perfect angle! 🙂
The photo of the city and the other one of the flags, both are magnificent!
What a great fortress, it certainly looks like it's got a deep history to it.
Magnificent images, an impressive area.
So the tower was put to good use by the Christians. Good view of the city from the top.
Wonderful shots. The last one is my favorite with those four waving flags in front of the clear blue sky.
Superb images Indrani.
Such grand history and such a grand monument.
Interesting. Beautiful clicks!
Very informative post and lovely pictures Indrani 🙂
Went through your complete Spain Odyssey. It must have been a fantastic journey. I loved all the churches, The lamps posts , the journey photographs all clicked beautifully.
Thanks for sharing this interesting piece, good to know!! 🙂
Beautiful !!!
Gorgeous places well captured!
Hello Indrani, what a wonderful tour of this historical place. Your images are all wonderful. Thanks for sharing your visit. Happy Friday, have a great weekend!
Interesting Post describing the historical information. awesome photos Indrani Ji
I especially loved the third picture… 🙂
The third picture is spellbinding!
very informative post…. loved it 🙂
lovely picts.
Awesome photos,
Nice informative post.
Very interesting. And lovely pics. Thanks for sharing.
Ami
Great post with interesting info and lovely shots.
It was so many years ago that I visited the Alhambra – your beautiful photos bring back good memories.
Beautiful historical place. I always get to brush up my archaeological knowledge from your blogs 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Beautiful captures and interesting information.
Thanks for sharing these beautiful views!
This is one heck of a tour.
informative post & awesome pics !
Beautiful photo, nice narration. The name Andalucia takes me to the past. So dreamy, so romantic.
Interesting Post describing the historical information.. Thanks for sharing!
Loved the Beautiful composition of the 3rd image!
Indrani all pictures are beautiful but 4th one is amazing 🙂
Amazing place and wonderful history!! Great post/photos for the day, as always, Indrani!! And thank you as always for sharing!! Hope your week is going well!! Enjoy!!
Very beautiful !
Beautiful realization of the challenge. The Alhambra is one of the most beautiful things in the world. And you know that we have been there several times. Greetings from us.
really loved the third picture 🙂