Granada

The most important building in the city of Granada and one of the most famous buildings in all of Spain is the Alhambra. The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex that sits on the hills above the city of Granada and was built (and inhabited) by the Arab kings in Granada between 900 and 1400.

On one of our many afternoon walks through the city of Granada, we discovered the “Bar Aliatar”, a bit hidden in a small street. The term “bar” in Spain does not necessarily mean that only alcoholic drinks are sold there. “Bar” in Spain can mean anything from café, bistro, restaurant to bar. Although Bar Aliatar also sells drinks, it is primarily a sandwich shop.

Large parts of Spain were ruled by the Moors, Berber tribes from North Africa, from 711 to 1492. So was Andalusia and the city of Granada. The Arab and Muslim influences of this period can be seen in Granada just by strolling through the old town and looking at the architecture and restaurants there. However, many of the city’s most impressive Arab-era buildings are surrounded by high walls and cannot be seen from the street. However there is a way to visit and see these amazing buildings from the inside.

To this day, Arab influences can be seen in many cities in Andalusia. In Granada, especially in buildings, restaurants and Arabic spice markets in the Albaicín district.