Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzin, Granada

Rising above the modern lower town, the Alhambra and the Albayzín, situated on two adjacent hills, form the medieval part of Granada. To the east of the Alhambra fortress and residence are the magnificent gardens of the Generalife, the former rural residence of the emirs who ruled this part of Spain in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. The residential district of the Albayzín is a rich repository of Moorish vernacular architecture, into which the traditional Andalusian architecture blends harmoniously.

Criterion (ⅳ): The Albayzín still maintains the characteristics of a Moorish settlement despite the urban development undertaken following its reconquest by Christians, and the locals’ return to a Christian way of life. Indeed, its overall appearance, urban structure, and major architectural features have not changed. Buildings formerly used as mosques are now used as churches or monasteries. Many people are fascinated by the harmonious esthetic quality of the city. The city remains an outstanding example of Moorish-style cities today, 500 years after the Reconquista.

Criterion (ⅴ): The Albayzín is still a livable city. The city is a treasure trove of unique Moorish architecture that converged with traditional the Andalusian style. Ordinary buildings have been absorbed into the urban structure built by the Moors during the Middle Ages.

Country: Spain
Location: Autonomous Community of Andalusia
Coordinates: N 37° 52′ 45.1″, W 4° 46′ 47”
Inscription year: 1984 (expanded in 1994)
Inscription Criteria: ⅳ, ⅴ