We are travelling more and better, and the possibilities of going on a trip which includes both charm and cultural value are many. One does not have to go far, or invest much money, in order to be able to enjoy pleasant places of huge historical value.
We suggest an enticing weekend in Arab Granada, via a journey through its history; what do you think?
TOURIST ROUTE THROUGH ARAB GRANADA
We shall begin by going for a walk through the centre of the city, where we can visit the Palacio de la Madraza, next to the Cathedral. This was an ancient Islamic University; the first to be established in Granada. In this palace, which was built in the 16th century, during the reign of Yusif I, they taught Quran studies at a higher level. This impressive building currently belongs to the University of Granada, which uses the space for a variety of cultural activities.
Between the Cathedral and Calle de los Reyes Católicos we can find the Alcaicería. In centuries past it was the Granada’s Great Bazaar and the market for Nasrid silk, and can be found from Plaza Nueva to Plaza Bib-Rambla. Currently these alleyways house a multitude of shops in which to acquire articles related to Arab culture and crafts.
Arriving at Calle de los Reyes Católicos, we come across a corner brimming with charm, El Corral del Carbón. This corn exchange served as a shelter and store for traders. It is classified as a Building of Cultural Interest, as it is the only example in Spain of a building of its kind which has been fully preserved.
Our route continues with a visit to the Albaicín. Through its narrow labyrinthine streets we come across the various Aljibes (cisterns) that have been preserved in this spectacular environment. These water reservoirs were very useful for washing prior to prayers, and for the supply of water to the houses.
We are now heading for the Carrera del Darro, known locally as Paseo de los Tristes. Walking along the river Darro we come across the Baños Árabes del Nogal. El Bañuelo, as it is also known, is one of the oldest sites in Muslim Granada. Declared a Building of Cultural Interest, these baths contain the original columns and capitals, and vaults pierced with chandeliers in the form of stars.
Of course, the spectacular view of the most outstanding emblem of Granada, the Alhambra and Generalife, is a given. A visit, either by day or by night, leaves no one unmoved and urges one to return Some day to see it again.
What better way of recalling that era than relaxing in an Arab bath? We only have to walk a few more metres. If we cross the bridge that joins the Acera del Darro with Calle Santa Ana, we can find our deserved place of rest. In this enclave is the Hammam Al Ándalus Granada, which provides us with the chance to complete this historic journey by submerging ourselves in Arab Granada.
