1. Alhambra Palace
When you hear the name Alhambra, somehow the name itself gives you a certain excitement, as the place seems mystical and adventurous. Who would not be in awe of such an amazing place that's rich in history and culture? The best thing is that it was influenced by various civilizations, especially the Muslim civilization.Just to prove to you how important Alhambra is, I'll give you a short overview of its history (don't sleep!). According to historical documents, in the year 889, Sawwar ben Hemdun needed to seek refuge in a fortress called Alcazaba, which Muslims then had to rebuild due to the struggles that had taken place. The castle soon turned into a military fortress due to its strategic position as it overlooked the whole city. When the first King of the Nasrid dynasty administered Cordoba, he then established the royal residence in Alhambra.Yusuf I and Mohamed V are the ones responsible for most of the construction in Alhambra that still remains until today. However, when Cordoba fell into the hands of the Catholics, Charles V wanted to rebuild parts of the castle in his name and therefore built several new areas such as the Emperor's Chambers and the Queen's Dressing Room.There are so many amazing things to see in Alhambra! From the Alcazaba and the palaces, Patio of the Lions, the Justice Gate, the building of the Baths, to the Comares Room and the Hall of the Boat, it will take you 3-4 hours just to finish your tour!#Mina Tours UK Tip: If you're going there in the summer, always bring a bottle of water and have some snacks in hand, you might not be used to the heat in the summer. Like any other major tourist attraction, visiting Alhambra can be a little overwhelming. If you plan to visit this amazing place during peak seasons (like in the Summer), then you will definitely need to plan ahead (some people book the tour and entry tickets 90 days in advance). But if you plan to visit in the winter, then there shouldn't be a problem.#Mina Tours UK Tip: When you purchase your ticket, you need to indicate when you would like to visit, either in the morning, afternoon or evening. In addition to that, there will be a time printed on the ticket that shows you what time you can enter the Nasrid Palace. IT IS NOT THE TIME FOR YOU TO START THE GENERAL TOUR. If you are late to enter the Nasrid Palace, you will not be allowed to enter. The management is really strict about this!
2. Cordoba Mosque @ Mezquita
The Great Mosque of Cordoba is known for its bold architecture and size, as many of the buildings and structures during the Umayyad Caliphate were established to rival those in Constantinople. So can you imagine, how grand it is? It was one of the biggest mosques after the Holy Mosque in Mecca and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. Its architecture is very different and majestic, which symbolizes Muslims' power and influence in the West at the time.
Historically, the design and architecture of the Cordoba Mosque are known to be very unique because it symbolizes the unity and harmony that existed between Muslims, Jews and Christians. Initially, Abdul Rahman I purchased half of the Cathedral to enable the Muslim community to perform their prayers. Not long after that, he then purchased the other half to build a new mosque. Later in the 16th century, a cathedral was built right in the middle of the mosque, hence the name 'Mezquita-Catedral'.When you visit the Cordoba Mosque, you will notice that there are many distinct and bold arches, also known as the horseshoe arch, which was the first Muslim arch adaption used in the Umayyad Great Mosque of Damascus. Sadly, Alhambra was abandoned in the 18th century and it was not until the 19th century that the Government decided to repair and preserve this historical place.
3. Cathedral of Seville- Santa Maria de la Sede Cathedral
The Cathedral of Seville, or more officially known as Santa Maria de la Sede Cathedral, is one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites. It was and still is, one of the biggest gothic cathedrals in the world.
It was the capital city of the Umayyad Caliphate from the 8th to the 13th centuries. However, when Seville was conquered by the Christians in the 12th century, they decided to use the mosque as a church. They then decided to knock down parts of the church and rebuild it as the church was beginning to decay.There's a saying that the developers actually had the ambition to build a humongous church to let the future generation believe that “they were madâ€. The area of the whole cathedral is 11,520 m2 (really big!) so you might want to bring a bottle of water with you when you get there. Also, maybe it's best that you have a full stomach or at least some snacks in hand just in case you get really hungry. You don't want to rush your visit to the Cathedral!
4. Alcazar
If there's one reason you should visit Alcazar, it's because it has been recognized as UNESCO's World Heritage since 1987. Just look at the pictures and you will understand why this site is one of the most visited sites in Seville.Alcazar was built by Spanish governors in 913 as a fort but when Muslims conquered Spain, they turned it into a palace. As different rulers lived in the castle, many of them also made major changes to the castle, mostly expanding it. The highlight of the castle is its intricate carvings on the stonewalls and the beautiful gardens!Alcazar is still one of the oldest European Royal Palaces that is still in use. If you're tired of looking at architecture and décor, you can always partake in various activities that are held there, organized by the Royal Alcazar Board of Patronage and the Town Hall.
5. The Viana Palace
If you're into architecture and interior design, then you should definitely check out Palace of Viana (Palacio d Viana). This palace was home to Marquisate of Villisca, which was built in the 15th century. When you visit this noble home, you'll be able to see and experience the traditional home of aristocrats. The interior is so exquisite and different, you will feel as though you travelled back in time! Back in the day, many of the elites enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle, which was reflected in their ornaments like tapestries, paintings and porcelains. I always enjoy visiting traditional homes whenever I'm abroad because it really adds something personal to the trip. Also, this site is slightly less crowded than the rest, so it's a nice change of atmosphere.The highlights of the palace are the courtyard and garden, which are built in the palace itself—allowing you to have an indoor garden! Gardens have always been an important aspect in every Muslim home because plants, animals and insects are believed to be a blessing from God and creating a garden within the home reflects the idea that humans should use the environment ethically (this concept also inspired Western architecture and design).Having an indoor garden is amazing because you can actually enjoy nature and a change of environment with privacy (No hijab on? No problem!) Have new ideas to build your house now? Well, you should definitely get inspired and build your own indoor garden (That's what my mom did, actually. It's a lot of fun because I don't have to worry about proper clothing whenever I need some herbs for cooking ðŸ˜). Below are the details of the palace:
6. Madinat al Zahra
Madinat al Zahra literally means the city of Zahra, which is situated just outside of Cordoba. As a tourist, you'll be able to visit several amazing places such as the Edificio Basilical Superior, which functioned as offices for many state officers as well as Casa de Yafar, which was also home to the Caliph's prime minister. The size of the city is huge, built on acres and acres of beautiful land.
7. Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz (Mosque of Christ of the Light)
This building is so beguiling right from its name. With its origins having dated back from the 10th century, its one of the classic Moorish monuments to still stand proudly today. During the 12th century, it was turned into a Catholic church, but it's the only mosque out of the ten in Toledo that continues to exist till today. Look out for the Arabic inscription on the south-west end that enlists the history of how the mosque came about. Though the mosque is not as grand as the Cordoba Mosque, this slice of ancient architecture is an interesting amalgam of cultures.
The interior may not boasts a majestic front, but the pillars and horseshoe arches form nine different sections, each offering intricate geometrical designs. While many may scratch their heads at the unusual history that derives from this building, it also exhibits the co-existence of two religions.
8. Calahorra Tower
Originally built by the Moors and later reinstated by King Enrique II in 1369, a third tower was added to the vaulted gate to connect the existing two. Cross through the Roman bridge and head to the tower which houses the Museum on Islamic Spain. Hear the story of Christians, Muslims and Jews living in amicable peace during that reign.
The monumental treasure right now was previously used as a defence border from attacks, then a prison and a girls' school. On top of immersing yourself in the heritage this place offers, the museum preserves artefacts that showcase the lives of three distinct religions through documents and pictures, giving you an inside look into the coexistence that took place before.
9. Castillo Arabe
Sitting at the foot of the hill, the last remaining fort was ferociously protected by Muslims in the past. There are also stories unravelling how Emir Muhammad IX locked up his daughters here. Drop by the ancient Muslim Bridge before climbing up the Castillo Arabe to appreciate the bravery of Muslims defending their fort.
Take in the view as you tread the ruins of this fort and reminisce the history of the Castillo Arabe, which dated back from the 12th century.
10. Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo
Before it was a cathedral, the place that stood in its area was the city's main mosque. While the mosque was demolished thereafter, you can still see the same minaret that the muezzin used for the call to prayer back in those days.
If you're in the area, stop by and marvel at the architecture, which shows the guise of Muslims living under the Christians ruling during that period.When you visit the city, it is impossible not to feel amazed by what was left by the Umayyad Caliphate. The Muslim Civilizations were able to conquer vast lands and obtain political power not just because they had a strong army, but because many of its leaders and scholars understood and lived by Islamic teachings as well studied languages, science, math and technology. That is something that always crosses my mind whenever I travel and visit historic countries like Spain.You'll also get a glimpse of how a city was intricately planned by the Umayyad Caliphate. Whether or not you're an archaeologist, architect or a history nerd, you will definitely appreciate touring the city as it will allow you to understand how Muslims, Jews and Christians lived in peace and tolerance. It gives me hope that peaceful inter-religious and multi-ethnic relations can still exist, despite all the negativity that we are experiencing today 😊
When to go
Summer (June-August): The peak season is usually summer and therefore it's the hottest time in Spain. It's best not to go during this time due to the hot weather and the hike in accommodation prices.
Spring/Fall (March-April/October-November): This is actually the best time to go. The weather is just nice, not too hot and not too cold (14°– 21°). Also, there aren't that many tourists at these times so that means shorter queues!Winter (November - February): This is the low season. It's generally cold in Spain. If you plan to visit the tourist destinations, please make sure their operation hours first.
What to wear
In the summer, don't forget to wear light and airy clothes. Try your best to wear cotton and loose jeans or pants. Please wear comfortable shoes! It will be difficult for you to look for another pair of shoes at these tourist destinations.
In the cold season, you'd want to prepare yourselves with light jackets, including a raincoat as well as a good pair of shoes. Always be prepared!
VISITING SPAIN FOR YOUR HOLIDAY?
I hope you're pumped to visit all of these amazing places! If you've been here, don't forget to share your adventures with us
