Central Granada and its architectural highlights

Granada’s Old Town is steeped in layer upon layer of fascinating history. Wandering through its cobbled lanes with an architect to guide you will open your eyes to hidden details that you might otherwise miss. On this walking tour of central Granada with local architect and licensed guide, Manuel, you’ll hear about the city’s thousand-year-old past, and some of the notable people who lived here. The tour starts in the historic Realejo neighborhood, next to Fuente de las Batallas, the well-known fountain in Plaza del Campillo. As you wander through Granada’s enchanting streets and vibrant squares, I’ll tell you about the origin of the city. I’ll also show you some of the heritage left by the Islamic Nasrid culture, in places like Convento de San Francisco Casa Grande (a convent in a former old mosque) and Cuarto Real de Santo Domingo, a heritage museum. You’ll hear about some of the city’s most illustrious former residents, too. These include the writer Federico García Lorca and Mariana Pineda who fought for freedom and justice against Fernando VII, and is buried in Catedral de Granada (the cathedral of Granada). As you make your way to the monastery where our walk ends, Monasterio de San Jerónimo, I’ll share a few insider tips about where you can stop for a tapa or two en route. Along the way, you’ll also have a chance to: • Admire the enormous Gothic Royal Chapel of Granada, the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs • Spot details like motifs in the cobblestone, including an eagle with a shield, and a Y and an F (for Ysabel and Fernando) • See Corral del Carbón, the only warehouse still standing on the Iberian Peninsula • Pass Alcaiceria, named after the place where silk was traded in Al-Andalus’ medieval Islamic cities and, today, a craft market • Take in the burial place of ‘the Great Captain’ Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, the main commander of the armies of the Catholic Monarchs This audio walk is perfect for first-time visitors to Granada that want to get a panoramic perspective of the city and its history. It’ll also appeal to people who want to get off of the main drag and discover more than the usual spots in Granada. Allow 2-2.5 hours so you can enjoy some of the recommended stops, both cultural and gastronomic! Let’s get going.

Price: £9.99 from VoiceMap