The Alcazaba (citadel) is the fortress located at the western end of the Alhambra, it was built by Muhammad ibn Nasr, founder of the Nasrid dynasty and was home to the elite garrison guarding the Sultan and his palaces.
The largest tower of the fortress, the Torre de la Vela, is called after the large bell which sits on top of it which was brought by the Catholic Monarchs when they captured Granada. The bell is now recognised as a major symbol of the city.
Due to its strategic defensive location the commanding, unobstructed views of Granada and beyond are breath-taking.
From the top you can see the layout of what was in effect a small town for the garrison of the fortress.
Some of the former moats of the fortress have been planted up and can offer a little respite for weary legs.
We walked along the ramparts at the end of our visit to the whole site as they ultimately lead to the exit and another view of their intricate water system.
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