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Andalusia The southern region of Spain is probably the country’s most captivating, as it blends the magnificent Costa del Sol with the country’s most captivating cities – Cordoba, Granada, Seville and Cadiz, to name a few – whose white walled old cities and ornate splendor reflect centuries of historic Moorish rule. Even the original name, Al-Andaluz has Arabic origin, and the names of places and the Spanish words spoken are replete with Arabic influence.
Start your tour of Andalusia in Granada, whose breathtaking Alhambra palace was the last stronghold of Moorish rule before the Catholics took control in 1492. Stroll through the many chambers of the Alhambra, whose ornate stonework, carvings, fountains and labyrinthine hallways opening into humongous marble-lined reflecting pools is a one-of-a-kind structure, absolutely unique among historical attractions in European, Mediterranean and African destinations. After checking out all the chambers, stroll about the gardens and discover the ingenious finesse with which the Moors worked everything.
The few from the Alhambra is spectacular – Spain’s towering Sierra Nevada mountain range sparkles in brilliant white throughout the winter, and legend has it that a Moorish King once had the mountainside seeded with white flowers to replicate such splendor throughout the summer months, per the request of his beloved Queen.
Indeed, the mystery, intrigue and romance of Spain runs strong in Andalusia. Visit Las Alpujarras, a 70-km long series of ancient Moorish villages cropped up along the southern side of the Sierra Nevada, it is easy to hike between these village and stay in local pensions along the way. Start out at the largest town, Orgiva, and make your way through this magic splendor revealing breathtaking vistas of lunar landscapes and, on a clear day, you might catch a glimpse of Africa. The Alpujarra was once a major producer of silk in Europe’s booming silk trade.
Nightlife in Andalusia is spectacular, but if you’re serious about revelry, then do note that Granada is renowned throughout Spain for its festive atmosphere; this in a country which itself is already highly party-oriented. Nights generally last till 5 or 6 in the morning, on the early side, and as you’re starting out your evening be sure to take advantage of FREE tapas, a scrumptious snack offered alongside beer or wine.
Once you’ve had enough of Granada (is it possible?), visit Cordoba, where to make it to the Mosque, which was once a Cathedral and prior to that a Mosque, you have to walk through the ancient Jewish quarter. Indeed, this rich confluence of culture makes for a spectacular historical attraction, although the city itself is somewhat of a museum, and it might be better to move on to Seville for a more lively nightlife experience. Seville is simply enchanting. Despite the fact that the tapas aren’t free here like Granada, Seville offers the port-city charm and intrigue, and its medieval architecture resonates which magical beauty. |
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