Welcome to the Alhambra, one of the most stunning palaces in the world. The ancient palace complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain's most popular tourist destinations, getting about 10,000 visitors each day. On today's episode of the tour guide, we'll make it easy for you by giving you the formula for getting the most out of your visit, from exploring its beautiful palaces to admiring its intricate architecture. So stay tuned as we explore the top things to see in the Alhambra. In 711, the moors, North African verbbers who had converted to Islam, cross the straight of deraulter to invade Spain. By 714, they had conquered Toledo and by 718, most of the Spain that we know today was annexed by the Damascus-based caliphate as a dependent emorant known as Al-Ana-Lus. For almost 800 years, Spain was a predominantly Muslim society and an Islamic state.

It's that era that shapes most of our sightseeing today. The gradual push south by the Christians to reclaim Spain is known as a reconquista, and lasted for several centuries. In 1248, Savia fell, setting the state for the last Islamic city-state, the fortified city of Granada, to eventually be reclaimed by the dynamic duo of Ferdinand and Isabella in 1492, uniting Spain under one kingdom. Granada's dominant site is the Alhambra, the last and greatest moors palace, and one of the top things to see in all of Europe. The mighty palace complex actually sits on a hill overlooking Granada, and there are four sites to see within the hilltop. The Palacio Nassadeed is an exquisite 14th-century palace from the moorsh dynasty Nazareed. There's also the Renaissance-era palace of Charles V. We also recommend seeing the Hinnan al-Efe palace in gardens and the mighty Al-Kathaba fortress.

Be sure to purchase your tickets well in advance since this is one of the top things to see in all of Spain. Each palace requires a separate ticket, but combo tickets are available. The Palacio Nassadeed actually has timed entries. To make things easy, you can jump on one of our tours which includes tickets to all the main sites, and a passionate guide, which will make the whole experience memorable and fun. Check the link in the description below. In Yohambra is the most stunning and accurate depiction of an Arabic garden in all of Europe. The Hinnan al-Efe palace in gardens was planted almost 600 years ago as a private retreat for the Sultan. As you take in the gardens, smell the aromas, and look at the beautiful fountains, it's easy to understand why Muslims believe that this is the ideal version of heaven according to the Quran.

A fort has stood here since Roman times. What we see today of the Al-Kathaba fortress or the Red Fortress are the 13th-century remains. Once you get to the top, it's easy to understand why this was the ultimate strategic military position that even Napoleon took advantage of. True to Islamic tradition, there are no paintings, sculptures, or images of living beings in this palace. The 14th-century palace itself is the best testament to the elegant and sophisticated Islamic culture that was a beacon of enlightenment for centuries while the rest of Europe slumbered in the dark middle ages. You'll see carved ceilings, courtyards, and intricate ceramic tiles and fancy Arabic script that will instantly transport you to another time and place. The finally carved Arabic script quotes the Quran and one phrase, only Allah is victorious, is repeated over 9,000 times throughout the palace.

The courtyard of the medals is the central courtyard of the palace, and an example of a common feature in Islamic architecture. Courses like running water and fountains were a way of creating a peaceful and calming environment while also incorporating important religious and cultural symbolism. From the courtyard, you can step into the grand hall of the ambassadors, called the Salon de Comades, which is as impressive as it sounds. This served as the throne room to the ruling calise and amirs. You can imagine them sitting in the middle of the room that is a perfect cube under the spectacular domed wooden ceiling that is made up of over 8,000 in late pieces. The room surrounds visitors with its ornate stucco and tiles. In this room, the 700-year-old struggle for Christian reconquista came to an end when Ferdinand and Isabella ceased control of this palace.

It was also in this room that Christopher Columbus was given final approval to set sail on his famous expedition in 1492. The courtyard of lions is a stunning courtyard named after the 12 marble lions underneath the central fountain. As you walk through the perfectly balanced 124 columns, you'll notice the poetic verses of the Kharam that serve as fancy ornamentation along the walls. The grandson of Isabella and Ferdinand became the most powerful man in Europe and built a palace right in the middle of the Ahambra. The palace of Charles the Fit is in complete contrast to the Palacio Nasseri. The circular courtyard and perfectly balanced columns are the best example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. You can easily spend a whole morning wandering the grounds of the Ahambra because there's so much to see.

Our guide told us fascinating stories that gave us more insight into this important chapter of European history, but also gave us a new perspective on the foundations of modern Spanish culture.