Cookie preferences

Essential cookies are always on. They support security, bookings and payments, and remember your choice.

You can change your choices at any time in the footer.
apollonaut. Built by People Who've Been

Journal / Information

Art & architecture

The Nasrid Palaces: Water, Light and Carved Stucco

How courtyards, pools and carved surfaces shape the palaces.

The long pool of the Court of the Myrtles in the Alhambra

Water

In the Court of the Myrtles a long pool doubles the façade around it; in the Court of the Lions, channels run from the fountain into the halls. Water sets the pace of the visit.

Carved stucco and tile

Walls are covered in carved plaster, calligraphy and geometric tilework. Look closely: inscriptions run through the patterns.

Carved stucco and tilework in the Court of the Myrtles

Read next

The Partal pavilion reflected in its pool in the Alhambra gardensAlhambra guide

What to see at
the Alhambra

The Alhambra on its hill, seen from the Mirador de San NicolásHistory & heritage

The story of
the Alhambra

The Apollonaut collection

You might like to visit

Gardens, palaces and landmarks across Apollonaut. Search, or browse what’s coming next.

View all experiences