Submitted by Layla Covington on the 2016 fall semester study abroad program in Granada, Spain…
La Alhambra is the most visited monument in all of Spain. Spain has a rich history of Muslim influence due to their almost 800-year reign. Granada which was the last city taken back by the Christians in 1492, is surrounded by Moorish architecture, cuisine and fashion. Muslim royalty began to create a city during their control, along with palaces, fortresses, gardens and shops, that today we call, La Alhambra.
Walking up to the entrance of monument was like walking into paradise. Our first stop was the Generalife, the summer vacation home of royals’ past. It’s a beautiful garden filled with vibrant flowers, precious stones and magnificent fountains. The Generalife was the place where all the royals went to vacation, so it’s no surprise the serenity you feel upon entering. When silent, you can hear the stillness and the quiet trickling of the fountains, that’s if you can find a moment without other visitors.
Although the Alhambra is filled with tourists, citizens and years ago, royalty, it’s a place where you can find a sense of peace. While its beautiful views are partially due to its location on top of a hill, its stunning architecture is because of its people. Every person that visits the Alhambra takes a little something with them. What did I take? A little piece of paradise.
