Palace of the Lions

Historical context

Built by Muhammad V in the second half of the 14th century, at the height of Nasrid art.

This was the sultan’s domestic quarter, organized around a courtyard with 124 slender marble columns and a central fountain resting on twelve lions. From here open the Hall of the Two Sisters and the Hall of the Abencerrajes, both crowned by dazzling muqarnas domes — stalactites of plaster that dissolve mass into light.

What to notice

The columns aren’t random: patterns of one, two and three columns compose a rhythm.

Practical tip

Walk the four corners of the courtyard — the view changes with every step.

FAQ