June 14: Exploring Granada

“The day was without a cloud. The heat of the sun was tempered by cool breezes from the mountains. Before us extended the glorious Vega. In the distance was romantic Granada surmounted by the ruddy towers of the Alhambra, while far above it the snowy summits of the Sierra Nevada shone like silver.” Washington Irving (Tales from the Alhambra)

Today we headed to Granada. After a 3.5-hour bus ride and the surprise celebration of Seva Bedi’s birthday en route, we arrived around 1 pm. Our hotel was outstanding and within a 20 walk to the city center. As the weather turned quite warm, we were grateful for the air conditioning! Granada was the last kingdom of the  Moorish Empire in Spain. The Moors ruled Spain from 711 DC to 1492. In 1492, the Catholic king and queen of Spain, Fernando and Isabela, conquered the city, and Spain was changed forever. We visited the Cathedral of Granada, the Capilla Real, where Fernando, Isabela, their daughter Juana, and her husband Felipe are buried. We visited the Almacén de Carbon, which was built in Moorish style. The students immediately commented on the different architecture. We also visited the Albaicín, a Moorish marketplace with several small “Callejuelas”.  Students were given free rein to explore the shops and barter in Spanish to get the best price possible for their purchases. We then walked up a series of switchbacks to the Mirador de San Nicolas, where the students were treated to an incredible vista of La Alhambra and Generalife, which we will visit tomorrow. In addition, students witnessed an impromptu Flamenco show. Wow! It was a long, fun-filled day! We headed back to our hotel and all shared a lovely meal together, where Seva continued to be feted.