Three different impressions of Granada throughout time:
Al-Suqundi, 13th century:
"Granada is the Damascus of Al-Andalus, a pasture for the eyes,
an elevation of the soul. It has an in-expugnable castle of tall walls
and magnificent buildings. It stands out for the singularity of its
river, which disseminates through its houses, baths, Moorish markets,
internal and external mills and gardens".
Víctor Hugo, 19th century:
Be it near or far,
Spanish or Arabic,
There is not one single city,
Which dare dispute,
With Granada, the beautiful,
The prize of beauty,
Nor any that show,
With more enchantment or jollity,
Brighter eastern sparkles,
Under a more serene sky.
Pedro Antonio de Alarcón, 19th century:
"Who has not heard of and admired Granada without even visiting
it?"
Historical notes
It is an impossible task to summarise the history of such an important
enclave in the history of Spain. The basic landmarks are only described
briefly:
Paleolithic and Neolithic settlements proved by the numerous sites
found in the outskirts of the city.
Iliberis was the Iberian name given to the settlement located nearby
the present city, and the Castilian version for it Elvira, comprised
a notorious emporium in Pre-Islamic Visigoth times (the Council
of Elvira took place in 306 AD).
It was of special importance in the Arab period. The present location
of the city housed the ancient Garnatha Alyejud, of Jewish origin.
The period of greater splendour started under the Nasrid dynasty,
founded by Yusuf ibn Nasr in 1238, and spread until the kingdom
of Granada was taken by the Catholic Monarchs.
Since then, Granada became a model of the new monarchy and unity
of Spain, turned into a Christian kingdom, royal residence and tomb.
In 1568 the War of Granada against the Moors began, a highly significant
event for Spanish and Mediterranean modern history. The War of Independence
against France had a great impact in Granada and the prospective
liberal period brought up heroes and heroines such as Mariana Pineda.
Hotels
AC PALACIO DE SANTA PAULA
Avenida Gran Vía de Colón 33
18001, Granada Andalusia Spain)
Telf: +34 958805740 fax: +34 958805741
Web: www.ac-hoteles.com
ALBAYCIN DEL MAR
Avenida Costa del Sol 23
E 18690 Almuñécar Granada (Andalusia, Spain)
Telf: +34 958632161 fax: 958881121
Web: http://www.hotelalbayzindelmar.com/
CASA MORISCA
Cuesta de la Victoria 9
E-18010, Granada(Andalusia Spain)
Telf: +34 958221100 fax: +34 958215796
Web: www.hotelcasamorisca.com
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