The city of Granada has been, throughout the centuries, a meeting point of cultures, and among its neighborhoods, the Albayzín and Sacromonte stand out in particular. Both preserve a unique identity that reflects the history and traditions that have shaped the city.
The Albayzín is considered one of the oldest and most historically valuable neighborhoods in Granada. Its origins date back to the Iberian and Roman periods, although it reached its peak during Muslim rule, when it became the city’s main urban center. In 1994, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Alhambra and Generalife ensemble.
Its narrow, labyrinthine streets, together with the houses known as “cármenes” —traditional homes with interior gardens and whitewashed walls— illustrate how life was organized in this Hispano-Muslim quarter. Walking through its squares and alleys allows a better understanding of the city’s evolution since the Middle Ages.
Sacromonte, located on the slopes of Valparaíso hill, is famous for its cave houses carved into the earth. This neighborhood developed from the 16th century onwards with the arrival of Roma communities, who made these caves their distinctive type of dwelling. Over time, Sacromonte became a cultural symbol, particularly associated with flamenco and the Granada zambra.
Both neighborhoods have exceptional viewpoints, such as those of the Albayzín, which open toward the Alhambra and offer some of the city’s most iconic views. These spaces not only invite visitors to contemplate the urban landscape but also connect them with the historical and cultural heritage that makes Granada a unique place in the world