Granada – Between Pomegranates, Moorish Legacy and Winding Alleys
Table of Contents
Introduction Symbolism of the Pomegranate Where Does the Name “Granada” Come From? The Alhambra – Heart of Moorish Culture Albaicín & Sacromonte – Life in the Alleys The Cathedral of Granada The Church of St. Nicolai Casa Horno de Oro – The Golden Oven House El Maristán – Granada’s First Nasrid Hospital Culture & Cuisine Important Events Real Estate in Granada Conclusion & Recommendation Newsletter Sign-UpWhere Does the Name “Granada” Come From?
The origin of the name “Granada” is as rich and layered as the city’s own history. While some historians believe the name is derived from the pomegranate (granada in Spanish)—a fruit that thrives in this region—others trace it to the Arabic term "Gárnata al-Yahud" (Granada of the Jews), referencing the city’s once-significant Jewish quarter.
After the Christian conquest in 1492, which marked the end of the Moorish Kingdom of Granada, the city underwent cultural changes but retained its evocative name. Today, the pomegranate serves as a beloved symbol of the city, adorning fountains, facades, and street signs alike.
The Cathedral of Granada
A monument of contrast and grandeur: the Cathedral of Granada stands proudly in the heart of the old town and is regarded as one of the most significant buildings of the Spanish Renaissance. Construction began in 1523 on the foundations of a former mosque, and the cathedral unites Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles.
The breathtaking interior features soaring vaults, ornate altars, and the Royal Chapel (Capilla Real), the final resting place of Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. A must-see for anyone wishing to truly experience and understand Granada.
The Church of St. Nicolai
The Iglesia de San Nicolás is known not only for its architecture but also for its stunning location. Perched in the Albaicín district, it offers one of the most iconic panoramic views of the Alhambra—especially enchanting at sunset.
Originally built in the 16th century and restored several times, the church is a quiet witness to the Christianization of Granada and a serene place where history, religion, and nature harmoniously meet.
Casa Horno de Oro – The Golden Oven House
The Casa Horno de Oro is a hidden gem in the Albaicín neighborhood. Its name translates to “House of the Golden Oven,” likely referring to a Moorish bakery that once stood here. Dating back to the 15th century, the house is a prime example of Andalusian-Moorish architecture.
Featuring decorative arches, a central courtyard layout, and intricate stucco work, the building provides a vivid glimpse into the everyday lives of affluent Nasrid families. Today, it functions as a museum, offering an atmospheric journey into the past.
El Maristán – Granada’s First Nasrid Hospital
Less known but historically vital, the El Maristán was the first public hospital in Granada, founded under the Nasrid dynasty in the 14th century. Located in the heart of the Albaicín, it was considered advanced for its time—with separate wings for men and women and dedicated treatment rooms.
Although only ruins remain today, archaeologists and historians are working toward its restoration. El Maristán stands as a testament to the medical and social advancements of the Islamic world during the Middle Ages, highlighting Granada’s once-remarkable progressiveness.