Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Gardens of Arabia in Granada

Having completed our whirlwind tour of the city of Seville, we then set our sights on the city of Granada, site of the Alhambra Palace and the Generalife, both monuments which were left behind by the Moors when they had conquered this part of Spain.  In fact, the Moors occupied parts of Spain for up to 800 years, so they had lots of time to leave their mark.  The beauty of Moorish architecture can be found not only in Granada, but also in places as far-flung as Agra, India, the site of the Taj Mahal.


The gardens surrounding the Alhambra compound demonstrate the characteristic symetry, balance and use of water to create oases and places of rest.


The clever use of architecture, combined with horticulture allows for the creation of windows on the world.


Gardens were meticulously manicured to create spaces where the rich and their servants could stroll in peace, and find time and an environment condusive to relaxation.


Even though we were visiting at the end of the tourist season, the plants were in full bloom, and the colours were absolutely amazing.


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