Wednesday, 21 May

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Dolora and I toured the Alhambra today. After breakfast it was up, up and steeper up to the Justice Gate entrance to the Alhambra. The complex consists of palaces, a fortress and gardens on 35 acres. Most impressive with Moorish architecture was the Palacios Nazaries with sections dating from the 13th century. The architecture made use of water fountains and reflecting pools. The path to the Generalife Palace had beautiful gardens with roses of every color. The Alcazaba, the fort, was the least inspiring although it had the highest view of the city. The snow covered mountains were visible in the distance. We tried to find the restaurant where we dined last night but there were a bunch of possibilities looking from this side. We finished with the Palace of Charles V, King of the Holy Roman Empire.

There is a statue of Washington Irving on the way to the Alhambra and a room within the Palacios Nazaries dedicated to him. He stayed at the Alhambra in 1829 and wrote “Tales of the Alhambra”. His book kindled interest in the Alhambra.

On the way back to town we passed a shop with a man making wood inlaid boxes. This seemed to be a good chance for a souvenir made in Spain and not having to make sure it did not say “Made in China”. Since Granada offers some Moroccan dining options it was off to Arrayanes. The food was tasty with large portions and wonderful lemonade with mint on this warm afternoon.

After a quick stop in our room, it was over to the Capilla Real, Royal Chapel. The chapel holds the bodies of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand. No photos were allowed. Wikipedia has a couple of photos. Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand have marble tombs which were carved from death masks and considered accurate. The coffins are beneath the tombs and can be seen by descending stairs. As important as they are to Americans, Isabella and Ferdinand are more important to Spain. Their marriage united the country and created Spain and they finally drove the Moors out. The chapel is not large but well worth a visit. Isabella’s crown and scepter are on display.

Since our ideal weather continues, sunny and over 80 today, it seemed like a gelato would be a good idea before our late afternoon siesta. It may be too warm for my hot chocolate and churros so Barcelona will have to continue as the reigning champion of hot chocolate.

It was nearby Bodegas Castañeda for dinner. Dolora and I were looking for tapas. We selected outdoor seating. The waiter rudely informed us that tapas were only served at the bar and we should order from the menu. Granada is known for a free small tapas when you order a drink. No free tapas but we did order a medium Tabla Castaneda Caliente, Castaneda Warm Assortment, which was delicious and had more than enough food for two. The restaurant is known for their vermouth so I gave that a try. Very good.

Off to Ronda tomorrow for only one night.