The Generalife: A Peaceful Oasis Beside the Alhambra
The Generalife is a beautiful palace and garden located on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol, in Granada, right next to the famous Alhambra. It was built between the 12th and 14th centuries as a retreat for the Muslim kings of the Nasrid dynasty, who used it to escape from the official life of the palace and enjoy the tranquility of its gardens and orchards. Although it is very close to the Alhambra, the Generalife is considered outside the walled city, and its original access was via the Cuesta de los Chinos, an ancient path that ascends from the Darro River.
What is the Generalife?
The Generalife, whose name comes from the Arabic “Yannat al-Arif” (Garden of the Architect), is a complex of gardens and buildings in the Nasrid Arabic style. The palace and its gardens were conceived as a place where architecture and nature perfectly integrated, creating an ideal environment for relaxation and leisure for the court. Although it is now one of the main tourist attractions in Granada, the Generalife originally served as a retreat residence and also as an agricultural estate, with orchards that supplied the Alhambra.
The Gardens of the Generalife
The gardens of the Generalife are one of the major charms of the place. They are filled with fountains, spouts, and pools surrounded by hedges and trees, creating an atmosphere of serenity and freshness. The Patio de la Acequia, the first of the two main courtyards, runs through the building with a water channel that connects to the nearby orchards, while the Patio de la Sultana is associated with a famous legend about a forbidden romance between Sultan Boabdil’s wife and a knight from the Abencerraje family. This legend adds a touch of mystery to this special corner.
The Gardens of the Generalife
As mentioned above, the Generalife is not directly part of the Alhambra, although the two palaces are closely related and share the same history. In the 19th century, the Generalife was restored and transformed into a Romantic-style space, highlighting elements such as the Escalera del Agua (Water Staircase), a unique structure with channels through which water flows, created as part of an irrigation system for the gardens. Visitors to the Generalife can enjoy its natural beauty while learning about the history and culture of the Nasrid era.
Visiting the Generalife
The Generalife is an integral part of the Alhambra visit, and access is included in the general Alhambra tickets. There are various ticket options, such as the general admission which includes the Generalife, the Nasrid Palaces, and the Alcazaba, or exclusive tickets for the Generalife and its gardens. Visits are available during the day, and nighttime visits to the gardens are also offered. For more details and to purchase tickets, you can visit the official Alhambra website. The approximate duration of the visit to Generalife is one hour.
The Historic Gardens of Andalusia (podcast)
This podcast explores the renowned gardens of Andalusia, focusing on the Generalife and the Nasrid Garden of Vélez de Benaudalla. These historic spaces reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage, blending Moorish design principles with a deep appreciation for nature. Learn about their history, architecture, and the innovative water features that define these iconic landscapes.
Tales of the Alhambra FREE ebook download
Our gift to you. “Tales of the Alhambra” is a collection of stories by the American author Washington Irving, inspired by, and partly written during his visit to the Alhambra in 1828. Irving was a guest at the ancient fortress, where he found himself in the company of several colourful residents. During his stay, Irving became increasingly enamoured with the grand palace and its wealth of history and folklore. The result is this captivating collection of essays, sketches, and anecdotes. “Tales of the Alhambra” is must-read for modern-day visitors to the Alhambra. Click the link below to download in either Epub or PDF format.
Alhambra Guided Tours
A visit to Granada wouldn't be complete without seeing the Alhambra. Click the button to check out our suggested guided tours.