Submitted by Kailey Schissler on the 2019 summer session program in Granada, Spain sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
I knew before this program even started how lucky we were to be able to see the Alhambra. I had heard about the popularity of the palace, almost being an exclusive attraction because you need to get your tickets so early. I was told by a friend I needed to see a castle at least once in my life, and within one week of being in Granada, I would see one that is one of the largest attractions in Spain.
The Alhambra is centuries old. It blows my mind how it is standing, not only just due to time, but because of Queen Isabella’s and King Ferdinand’s rule. The Catholic rulers didn’t destroy the palace, despite its Arab origin. Because I am not very knowledgable about Spain’s history, seeing the Alhambra made me even more excited to learn about it. I feel as though I would understand more being able to picture the people living there, and the time period they lived in.
The palace itself is like a work of art. Although a lot of it is replicas, it does not make it any less beautiful. I wanted to soak everything in, but also document it all with my camera so I would never forget. I bet it was even more breathtaking when it was just built, with the colors still vibrant and the decorations authentic.
My favorite part of the Alhambra was the gardens and nature. I kept taking pictures of the beautiful flowers and plants. I was also fascinated by the view from the bell tower. You could see so many houses, and it reminded me, in the same way, the homestay has, how I am only visiting this beautiful place. While I am only here a month, this is home to so many people . It reminded me how big the world is, and how much there is beyond what we know. The Alhambra made me think of Spain’s past, present, and future.
