Granada’s Albaicín – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Granada’s Albaycin (Albaicín) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Declared a UNESCO a World Heritage Site in 1984, the Albaicín (or Albayzín) is the old Moorish quarter of Granada. It is built up on a hillside facing the Alhambra and is characterized by steep steps, white-washed alleys and buildings, churches, quaint plazas, and dramatic viewpoints.

The quarter was established when Moors (driven out by the Christians) fled the town of Baeza, near Jaen, in the 13th century. Granada – under the control of the Nasrid dynasty – was soon to be the last stronghold of a Muslim empire that had at one point included all of Spain and Portugal. During the next two hundred years the Albaycin grew: more than 30 mosques were built and the population expanded to over 40,000 inhabitants. Villas with lush gardens were built and Arab baths multiplied.

Moorish rule ended in 1492 when the sultan of Granada surrendered the city and handed over the keys of the Alhambra to the Catholic monarchs Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile. Initially Muslims were allowed to continue practicing their religion but by 1501 the new rulers mandated that Granada’s Muslims convert or emigrate. Many of the elite Muslim class emigrated to North Africa but most of the population converted.

Little alleys you’ll find discovering the Albaicin

What to See in Granada’s Albaicín

The Albaycin is a bit of a labyrinth and it is easy to get lost. That’s ok, it’s a great way to discover hidden alleys. But if you’re on a mission to see the highlights I list them below (the * denotes what I think are the best of the highlights).

Palaces and Homes

Palacio Dar al-Horra *

Palacio de la Cordova

Casa de Castril (archaeological museum)

Casa Horno de Oro

Casa Zafra

Casa del Chapiz *

Carmen de la Victoria*

Above: Palacio Dar al-Horra (left), Casa Zafra (right)

Churches

San Juan de los Reyes

San Jose

Santa Ana*

El Salvador *

Iglesia Parroquial de San Pedro y San Pablo*

Monasteries

Santa Isabel la Real

La Concepcion

Abadia de Sacromonte *

Other monuments

Banuelo *

Mezquita Mayor de Granada*

Real Chancillería de Granada*

Viewpoints

Mirador de San Nicolas *

Mirador de San Cristobal*

Mirador de San Miguel Alto*

Placeta de los Carvajales*

Cuesta de los Chinos *

La Lona*

Mirador Plaza Victoria *

Cruz de la Rauda

Streets

Paseo de Los Tristes*

Carrera del Darro*

Caldereria*

Cta. De San Gregorio*

Vereda de Enmedio*

But the best thing is to just explore. There’s lots to see in the neighborhood and lots of different views of the Alhambra and the city of Granada. If on limited time, I recommend a tour – this tour includes the best of the Albaycin (including the most scenic viewpoints).

Some more photos from around the Albaycin:

Where to Stay in Granada

As much as we like the Albaycin, we don’t recommend staying in the neighborhood. You’re best off in the city center where you’re close to everything and it’s easier to find you way around.

See this post: The Best Hotels in Granada (for all budgets). I give you a whole bunch of options in all price ranges.