Travel to Spain

By Hannah RollmakerOf all the glorious cities that permeate Spain, perhaps none is as simultaneously fascinating, gorgeous, diverse, and historical as Granada. Resting at the foot of the incredible Sierra Nevada mountain range, Grenada enjoys one of the most supremely transcendent natural cityscapes known to man. Adding to the grandeur is the fact that, in the same vein as other Mediterranean cities like Nice in France, the Mediterranean Sea and its pristine beaches lie less than an hour away on the other side.

Granada may have a landscape similar to some other Riviera cities but there is definitely no equal to Granada when it comes to diversity. A trip around the many amazing sites will belie the town’s impressive history. Countless nations have fought over Granada for centuries and evidence is found today in sites like the Albaicin (erected by the Moors) and the Salmanca (of Spanish Descent). The most popular attraction in Granada, though, is without a doubt the famed Alhambra. This palace is of great historical and religious significance to Islam and countless Arabs flock to Granada each year in pilgrimage to lay hands on this sacred site. Some of them decide to stick around, apparently, as Granada has one of the largest Arab populations in Spain.

Granada was under Muslim control for centuries but the Alhambra is one of the few Arab buildings that remain in the city. This is largely due to the takeover of Grenada by the Catholic Church. Once Christianity spread into Granada, nearly all the Islamic-themed buildings, statues, and mosques were destroyed. Adding insult to injury, modern day Grenada uses as its water source the ancient underground wells built by Arabs. Either way, we can be comforted in the fact that there is an astonishing array of beautifully crafted Christian architecture all throughout Grenada. The Basilica San Juan de Dios, for instance, is one of the most cherished sites as it is considered the resting place for the beloved Saint John. The Santo Domingo Church is also a big draw, founded in 1512 during Spain’s most prolific and powerful period.

One of the most interesting areas of Granada, though, is the area that few, if any, tourists ever get to see. The “Zaiden” is a busy neighborhood that is home to over one hundred thousand citizens. This working class burg is the largest neighborhood in Granada and countless Africans, South Americans, Chinese, and Gypsies make up what is easily the most colorful part of Granada. The weekly mercadillos are a sight to behold: Each Saturday, Gypsies gather to sell their goods and offer dancing, drinks, and entertainment in a gigantic market square. Any visiting tourist would do well to check out this area if they truly want a taste of the “real Granada”. Sadly, most of the outsiders who pass through Granada are either skimming over in during a backpacking journey or making a pilgrimage to one of the many important religious figures. Neither pursuit offers much time to wander the city, which is a sad situation indeed.