Gardens of the Alhambra (V)

The Alhambra includes many other designs that, although created in later periods, reflect the same character as the ambiance crafted by the Nasrids. Among these are the Partal Gardens, which extend east of the main complex on sloping terrain, forming hanging gardens adapted to the topography. The Partal is the oldest surviving structure in the Alhambra. It was once a landscaped area with splendid palaces.

The pool of the Partal reflects two marble lions in its still waters. This pool, with its garden, features a beautiful pavilion whose façade is mirrored in the water. It is an entirely open architecture, where wooden ceilings and the tiles of the interior space stand out.

I wish to end with these words by Titus Burckhardt:

«Water is the mysterious life of the Alhambra; it produces the lush vegetation of the gardens, the splendor of the flowering shrubs, and rests in the pools that reflect the elegant porticoed halls (...)»

< Gardens IV