This is probably the oldest part of Granada. On a hilltop and covered with whitewashed houses, it is a very picturesque. However, it used to be Granada’s poorest district for a long time , but is now slowly developing. There are many teahouses run by Moroccans and Algerians in an area along the lower part of the hill located in narrow, steep cobblestone streets named La Calderia (photo 2). It is located parallel to Plaza Nueva (photo 3). You can also find many shops that sell Moroccan souvenirs. This is a favorite place for students and full of life. At the top of the hill is the New Granada Mosque. Walking up the hill “Cuesta de St Gregorio†you can get lost in the maze of the Albaicin. Climb up to the Mirador St. Nicolas (photo 1) for spectacular views over Granada and the Ahlambra. For quite a different perspective of Granada, go to the Camara obscura, a truely amazing phenomena. Once you have finished exploring, have a tea and Shisha (water pipe) and then relax in a Hammam or enjoy a Flamenco performance in Sacromonte.
Albaicin walking tour If you take the tourist bus up to the Mirador de San Nicolas, take advantage of the time left until you catch the next bus and walk down the road Santa Isabel La Real in the direction the bus would drive. Further down on the left-hand side is a blue door. This is the entrance to the Max Moreau museum. The entrance is free, but you need to ring a bell to get in during opening hours. It was Moreaus private domain with a small exhibition of his works and his life. There is also a sun terrace you can go up to, with a great view to the Alhambra. Continue down the road until you get to the Plaza San Miguel Bajo. Here you will see a small sign to the left, which brings you to the Ojo de Granada down the street, Cruz de Quiros. To the right of the Plaza into Calle Gallo, you will then reach the Palacio Dar Al -Horra. From the Plaza you can catch the bus back to the Cathedral and Plaza Nueva, but take a walk before to the end of the street and enjoy the view over Granada and the cathedral.
Museo de Max Moreau Price: FREE Facts: This used to be the private residence of the Belgium artist Max Moreau and exhibits a small selection of his works and life.
Palacio Dar -Al Horra callejon de las Monjas
Tel: 958 22 79 38
Price: FREE Facts: This used to be the residence of Boabdils mother. Boabdil the last Moorish ruler to reign over Granada.
Camara Obscura: C/Cruz de Quiros, 12 Tel 958 20 24 73
Price: 4€, children under 6 years for free
Facts:
From the Mirador St Nicolas follow the “Sta Isabel de Lareal†down to Plaza Miguel Bajo, make a left and walk down the hill, to the street “Quiros†and you will have a wonderful view from here down to the cathedral, especially at night.
There are more camaras obscuras in Spain, one being in Jerez de le Frontera. Check this one out on www.elojodegranada.com
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