El Partal

El Partal is the oldest surviving palace complex within the Alhambra fortress in Granada. It was built in the early 14th century under the Nasrid ruler Muhammad III and forms the northern end of the palace complex. The name derives from the Arabic word for portal, which points to its original function as an entrance hall or portico. Unlike the neighboring palaces, which were used by the Spanish monarchs after the conquest of 1492, El Partal fell into private hands and was converted into a residential complex. It was not until 1891 that the building was handed over to the state and incorporated into the historic site of the Alhambra. Since then it has undergone several restorations, during which the original stucco decoration was also uncovered and partly reconstructed.

The ensemble visible today consists of the so-called Palacio del Pórtico, a large reflecting pool, and the adjoining Torre de las Damas. The facade of the portico is adorned with delicate stucco reliefs and calligraphic inscriptions containing poems dedicated to Muhammad III. Behind the portico rises a tower-like lookout pavilion that served as a mirador and offered wide views over the city of Granada. Thanks to its open structure and many windows, the building is described as especially bright and filled with light. To the left of the main building stands the Tower of the Ladies, whose smallest chamber houses the oldest muqarnas dome in the Alhambra. To the right is a small, raised prayer room known as the oratory. It has a mihrab and is richly decorated with Arabic inscriptions and geometric patterns.

South of the palace stretch the extensive gardens of the Partal, which were laid out in the 20th century. They offer a calm contrast to the architectural density of the palace buildings and contain the foundations of older structures, including the former Palacio del Partal Alto. West of the main tower you will find four residential houses from the Nasrid period, which are of particular significance because of the remains of wall paintings. These frescoes, which show scenes from court life, are among the few surviving examples of the painting of Nasrid artists. At El Partal you experience a blend of historic architecture, artful decoration, and tranquil surroundings that reflects the original character of the complex as a place of contemplation and views.