The heart of the Alhambra complex is undoubtedly the Nasrid Palace, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture that delights visitors with its unique beauty and richness of detail. It is here, in the maze of halls, courtyards and gardens, that one can best feel the spirit of ancient Granada and understand why the Alhambra is considered one of the wonders of the world.

As you stroll through the palace, look out for the masterful decorations on the walls and ceilings, where arabesques and calligraphic inscriptions create mesmerizing patterns. Each room has its own history and symbolism. The Courtyard of the Lions, with its fountain supported by stone lions, is considered one of the most beautiful places in the entire complex. Legend has it that these lions once roared to warn of intruders.

The Hall of Two Sisters impresses with its dome decorated with thousands of small protuberances that symbolize stars in the sky. In the Hall of Ambassadors, where the sultans received foreign guests, you can admire the impressive cedar ceiling, which represents the seven heavens of Islam.

Remember that you enter the Nasrid Palace at the specific time stated on your ticket. It is recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid possible delays. It takes about an hour to tour this part of the complex, but it is worth reserving more time to fully appreciate every detail.

Alhambra ticket prices vary depending on the season and type of tour. A general ticket, which includes admission to the Nasrid Palace, the Alcazaba fortress and the Generalife gardens, costs about 20 euros (as of 2024). However, it is worth checking current prices on the Alhambra's official website, as they are subject to change.

The Alcazaba Fortress, the oldest part of the Alhambra, is an impressive example of Moorish military architecture. Built on a steep hillside, it offers unforgettable views of Granada and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Climbing its walls and towers, you can imagine what life was like for the guards guarding the palace's security.

The most distinctive feature of the Alcazaba is the Torre de la Vela, a massive watchtower that offers a panoramic view of the city. According to local legend, the bell at the top of this tower would toll to warn residents of danger or announce important events.

Moving on to the Generalife gardens, you are transported to a world of peace and harmony. Designed as a resting place for the sultans, these lush gardens are full of fountains, ponds and carefully trimmed hedges. Walking through the alleys of the Generalife, you may feel like you're in paradise on earth, just as the medieval architects imagined.

One of the most enchanting places in the Generalife is the Patio de la Acequia, where a long pool is surrounded by flower beds and fountains. Legend has it that the sultans liked to relax here on hot days, listening to the soothing sound of the water.

The Generalife Gardens are open longer than the rest of the complex, allowing for a leisurely visit at the end of the day. During the fall season, they are open until 6pm, but the hours can change depending on the season, so it's worth checking the current information before visiting.

A tour of the Alcazaba fortress and Generalife gardens can take about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the tour and your desire to delve into the details. It is advisable to plan a rest in the gardens to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.

When planning your visit to the Alhambra, keep in mind a few key points that will help you fully enjoy this remarkable journey through time:

1. booking tickets: It is strongly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, preferably 1-2 months before your planned visit. Tickets can be purchased through the Alhambra's official website. Alternatively, you can consider purchasing the Granada Card, which offers access to the city's other attractions in addition to admission to the Alhambra.

2 Sightseeing Time: You should reserve at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the complex. Remember that the Alhambra is a sprawling complex, so comfortable footwear is essential.

3 Opening hours: Different parts of the complex have different opening hours. The Nasrid Palace can only be visited at the specific time stated on the ticket, while the Generalife gardens are available for longer periods.

4 Guides and audio guides: Various tour options are available, including guided or audio-guided tours. These can greatly enhance the experience by providing fascinating information about the history and legends of the Alhambra.

5. night tour: For a unique experience, consider a night tour of the Nasrid Palace. The Alhambra illuminated at night creates a magical atmosphere.

Now that you know the practical aspects of the tour, it's time for some fascinating legends related to the Alhambra:

• Legend of the Abencerrajes Hall: It is said that in this hall Sultan Boabdil ordered the murder of members of the influential Abencerrajes family. It is said that the red stains on the marble fountain are traces of their blood that cannot be washed away.

• The mystery of the lion fountain: According to legend, the lions supporting the fountain in the Lions' Courtyard once roared to warn of danger. They were also supposed to turn in the direction from which the danger was coming.

• Forbidden Love in Generalife: The gardens of Generalife are the setting of a romantic legend of forbidden love between the sultan's wife and a knight of the Abencerrajes family. Their clandestine meetings took place in hidden corners of the gardens.

• The curse of the last sigh: When the last Sultan of Granada, Boabdil, left the Alhambra, it is said that his mother placed a curse on him with the words: 'Cry like a woman over what you could not defend like a man.' The place from which Boabdil took his last look at the Alhambra is known as the 'Sigh of the Moor'.

The Alhambra is not just a monument, but a living history full of secrets and legends. Every corner of this remarkable place hides stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you are a lover of history, architecture or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Alhambra is sure to enchant you and leave you with indelible memories for years to come.