The Alcazaba Alhambra in Granada, Spain.

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Alcazaba

Granada

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Occupying the western tip of the Alhambra are the martial ramparts and towers of the Alcazaba, the site's original 13th-century citadel. The Torre de la Vela (Watchtower) is famous as the tower where the cross and banners of the Reconquista were raised in January 1492. A winding staircase leads to the top where you can enjoy sweeping views over Granada's rooftops.

Entry is included in the Alhambra ticket. Alternatively, you can buy a €7 ticket which covers admission to the Alcazaba and Generalife.

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Nearby Granada attractions

1. Torre de la Vela

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Of the towers in the Alcazaba section of the Alhambra, the most celebrated is this, the so-called Torre de la Vela (Watchtower) where the cross and…

2. Museo de la Alhambra

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3. Puerta de la Justicia

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If you already have your Alhambra ticket, you can climb the Cuesta Empedrada path and pass through the horseshoe-arch door of the austere Puerta de la…

4. Museo de Bellas Artes

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In the Alhambra, on the first floor of Palacio de Carlos V, this small fine arts museum merits a visit for its collection of 15th- to 20th-century…

5. Mexuar

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This 14th-century hall forms the entrance to the Palacios Nazaríes in the Alhambra. Originally, the council of ministers would have met here and the…

6. Palacio de Carlos V

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This huge Renaissance palace clashes spectacularly with the style of its surroundings on the Alhambra. Its main (western) facade features three porticoes…

7. Palacios Nazaríes

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This is the stunning centrepiece of the Alhambra, the most brilliant Islamic building in Europe, with perfectly proportioned rooms and courtyards,…

8. Patio del Cuarto Dorado

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This Alhambra courtyard, in the Palacios Nazaríes, is where the emirs would have given audiences to their subjects. It features a small fountain and the…