Albayzín and Sacromonte Walking Tour

The Albayzín, a UNESCO World Heritage neighbourhood since 1994, is the old Muslim quarter of Granada. It is located on the north hill of the Alhambra. It was founded in the 11th century by the Ziríes, the first Muslim dynasty in Granada. However, over time, and already in the Nasrid period, it had to expand to accommodate the Muslims who had fled from Christian areas.

If two neighbourhoods define Granada, they are the Albayzín and the Sacromonte. As you stroll through the area, you will discover the labyrinthine urban layout typical of Arab cities. Through the architecture, you will gain an insight into the lifestyle and customs of those who lived there. You will learn about Los Carmenes, the system of ditches and cisterns that provided the neighbourhood with its most precious resource: water.

The evolution of the city since 1492 includes various transformations carried out by the Christians. For example, churches that were once mosques and elegant Gothic or Renaissance houses that were built on the sites of the Muslims’ discreet courtyard houses.

Sacromonte: historic home-caves
Sacromonte is a neighbourhood where the gypsies settled in the 15th century, in cave houses, used to this day. Walk along its steep trails, and you will also learn about the origins of this ethnic group and its contribution to flamenco. This musical genre has been declared an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO.

In Sacromonte, one can enjoy impressive views from its hidden outlooks. This visit is undoubtedly a journey back in time, offering the chance to discover narrow streets and beautiful corners that are difficult to find in other European cities because Granada is special!