Granada
Cathedral and Capilla Real. Granada's
cathedral sprang from the Renaissance era, and was begun in the 16th
century by Diego de Siloe. The baroque additions furthered its outer
beauty in 1667. Nestled beside this impressive Gothic structure lies the
Capilla Real, Royal Chapel. It is here that Ferdinand and Isabella desired
their burial to be, to commemorate the place of the Christian conquest
over the Muslim city. There are few words to describe the beauty of the
cathedral's interior, and the tourist will never cease to find things to
delight the eye.
Casa de Castril.
This Renaissance home was commissioned by Spaniard Diego de Siloe and has
a striking facade. Easily recognizable by its ornately etched entranceway,
the Castril house is now one of Granada's
time capsules, housing an archaeology museum and hosting other valuable
pieces. Originally this home belonged to Hernando de Zafra, who had the
prestigious position of royal secretary. It is worth the time just to
explore the Moorish patio and marvel at the beautiful architecture that
makes it a priceless treasure.
Dar al-Horra.
Another Moorish palace, this lovely home belonged to the mother of Granada's
last Arabic king. Like the Alhambra,
courtyards and waterways color the grounds outside the palace. The interior
is strewn with bright friezes and unique artwork.
Plaza Nueva.
Resting side by side with Renaissance-style fountains and medieval
churches, this section of town can also be considered a tourist mecca.
This is not the part of town for a first-time visitor to ignore and is a
great place to stop for a bite, to find one of the infamous Spanish tapas
bars, or just to sit and soak in Spain's
sun. This is only one such place in Granada
where the grandeur of the past meets the urban sprawl of the present.