Nazari Art and Architecture: Exploring the Alhambra Palace

Nazari Art and Architecture

The Alhambra Palace

Nazari architecture is characterized by external sobriety contrasting with profusely decorated interiors. Simple materials were used, and a distinctive column style emerged. This new column featured a thin, cylindrical shaft with numerous bases and a capital adorned with wavy bands and intricate stalactite or vegetal decoration.

Arches and Decoration

The most common arch types are pointed and stalactite, with the latter being the most characteristic. Decoration is diverse, including geometric interlacing patterns (loop decoration), vegetal motifs, and epigraphy. Plasterwork typically covers the upper walls, complemented by glazed earthenware or tile baseboards, creating a horror vacui effect.

The Alhambra in Granada

The Alhambra in Granada exemplifies these features. Serving as a palatial residence, state administrative center, and fortress, it is located outside the urban core within a walled enclosure. Known as the Red Castle due to the color of its walls, it housed a fortress from the 9th century. In the mid-13th century, Nasrid monarchs reconstructed it and built their palace within.

Palace Structure

The palace comprises three units: the Mexuar, the Diwan, and the Harem. The Mexuar, where the prince held court, is built around the Court of the Myrtles, featuring porticos on either side of a long, narrow pool. One portico leads to the Hall of the Boat, named for its wooden ceiling decoration. Beyond lies the Throne Room, built during Yusuf I's reign. Located on the first floor of a tower, it boasts large windows, alcoves (one of which housed the throne), tiled baseboards, and a painted wooden ceiling resembling a starry sky.

The Harem and Other Palaces

The Harem, or private palace, centers around the Court of the Lions, named for its central fountain with twelve archaic-looking marble lions. Porticos surround the court on all four sides, with pavilions and fountains on the shorter ends. On the long sides are the Hall of the Abencerrajes and the Hall of the Two Sisters, both featuring impressive stalactite vaults. Behind the Hall of the Two Sisters is the Daraxa viewpoint. Other smaller rooms exist, including the Hall of the Kings. Beyond the Alhambra lies the Generalife, meaning "large garden," consisting of two buildings flanking a large courtyard with a central pool.