by Judy Bereza, guest blogger

“Granada, I’m under your spell.”  Yes, that song, that ear worm, is a  perfect description of a magical day spent exploring the Alhambra,the crown jewel of Granada.  First a bit of explanation,  followed by a short history lesson.  

We were in the south of Spain  staying with friends in Estapona, a charming town west of Malaga.  A day trip to Granada was on our to do list. Actually, how lucky could we be, that we were able “to do” this list, which included  Cadiz and Seville.  But more on those cities later.

Granada

Now the history part.  Granada was settled long before Roman times by the Iberians.  After the Roman and subsequent Visigoth rule was upended by the Moors around 800 A.D., the Moors built beautiful and architecturally sophisticated palaces and mosques. They maintained their control until Granada, their last stronghold in Spain, was overtaken by Catholic forces in 1492.  (What is it about that date?) The Catholics subsequently converted the city and its masterpiece, the Alhambra, into a Catholic dominated enclave. In fact King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella ruled from the Alhambra for a time,  probably anxiously awaiting the return of Columbus.

Alhambra

The Alhambra is world famous, one of the best remaining examples of Moorish architecture in the world. It is a vast complex of palaces, residences, government buildings, gardens, and towered fortifications.  One day does not due it justice, but our expert guide showed us the highlights.  The photos will give you an overview of this magnificent World Heritage site.

Tours by Locals

In our travels we have often used a website called “Tours by Locals”.  It features official guides from areas and cities worldwide who reside in places you plan to visit.  You work with them directly.  We have always been happily rewarded with their knowledge, personal attention, and enthusiasm.  Such was the case with our guide to the Alhambra and also our guide in Seville. 

Cadiz

After visiting Granada, a few days later we visited  Cadiz. Cadiz is an ocean front city located about 75 miles northwest of Gilbraltor, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe.  We enjoyed its rich history, unique culture, and stunning cathedral.   Another city rich in history and culture. Founded by the Phoenicians, conquered by the Romans, then overtaken by the Moors, and finally the Spanish, the city reflects all these periods.  The magnificentpalace Real Alcazar is an exquisite example of Moorish architecture and garden design.

 Seville

Another 75 miles north of Cadiz is Seville.  Another city rich in history and culture. Founded by the Phoenicians, conquered by the Romans, then overtaken by the Moors, and finally the Spanish, the city reflects all these periods.  The magnificent palace, Real Alcazar is an exquisite example of Moorish architecture and garden design. The cathedral, and final resting place of Christopher Columbus, is also a “must see”.

After a full day with our local guide, we drove back to Estepona. The south of Spain is so much more than we anticipated.  The mountainous scenery is stunning, the historic cities and charming seaside towns are all within a day’s drive, and the food, especially the seafood, is its own delicious reward.  

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