Alhambra

Thus far, on this journey, my most memorable experience was the Alhambra in Granada, Spain.  This building was exceptionally astounding because it took me by surprise.  I was not well versed on the Moorish influences in Spain, and found the Islamic carvings and architectural style to be very unique.  The city of Granada itself was very different than other big cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Alicante, as the cultural influence of Islam were very apparent in the typical city daily life.

After we hiked to the peak of the mountain, basking in the harsh 96-degree afternoon heat, we descended leisurely through the gardens leading to the building. The plant life surrounding the building were extensive and well groomed, but caused extensive allergy attacks.  The exterior of the Alhambra left much to be desired; its façade consisted of a simple waffle-like pattern and looked weathered and sandy beige.  As I made my way into the building, I marveled at the intricate carvings that were delicately etched from floor to ceiling.  Every inch of the walls was perfectly planned and decorated ornately and with careful precision.  The arches were uniquely shaped, distinct from that of other European inspired architecture.  The carvings were so well maintained and preserved, the marble and slate floors smooth and unmarred by footsteps.  The echo of sounds inside the domed areas was accentuated by the materiality.  The pools of water were calm and almost motionless, the walls fortifying the water from the breeze.  The crystal clear water created a serene mirror in center of each of the different courtyards, reflecting back up into the sky.  The drabble of the fountains and the irrigation ducts created weaving orthogonal pathways through the building, connecting each pool of water to the next.  The trickle of water was always nearby, flowing ever so slightly, surrounding me with peaceful sounds.  In the baking heat of the afternoon, I decided to drink the water from a fountain.  Despite the heat, the water was crisp and refreshing. 

As the pink tinted glow of early evening settled in, the picturesque gardens looked romantic and beautiful.  We stopped often to photograph the landscape, as we had a great view that enveloped the city of Granada.  The hillsides were dotted with houses and the greenery was lush and bountiful.  The descent from the mountain was comfortable and tranquil, as the early night air cooled and reinvigorated us.

I continued my exploration of the city that evening, and everywhere we walked, we had a view of the Alhambra from below.  As the blackness of nightfall settled in, undisrupted by urban city lights, the Alhambra glowed proudly, almost suspended in the sky perched upon the darkened mountain.  The building reigned from above and towered even more impressive at night.  It was lit up from the base of the walls, and the lights created a green and yellow wash of color along the entirety of the building.  Its presence cascaded down with authority and made everyone stare in awe.

-Kathy Tong

* Pictures to come when internet is working better....