Alhambra | Granada, Spain {In Retrospect}

I was looking through images from our trip to Granada, Spain in 2007 earlier today. I thought you'd enjoy these images from the Alhambra.

The Nasrid Palace, the residence of the Muslim rulers of Granada and their court, and surrounding gardens are the main attraction. Truly inspiring. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are absolutely breathtaking. I did a 20 page research paper on the muqarnas ceiling in Hall of the Ambassadors while studying Islamic Art and Architecture as an undergrad. It brought me to tears to see its stunning beauty in person. It was my favorite class at BYU from my favorite professor, Dr. Finlayson, and it honestly changed my life (it's the only class I took as an undergrad that inspires me to reread class notes and my writing assignments just to refresh my memory).

The Nasrid Palace is an incredible experience for the senses- you can't even begin to communicate what it feels like to be there through images. The natural light flooding into the rooms of the palace, the smell of stock (a very fragrant flower) and wysteria, the cool breeze blowing through the open windows, the view of the surrounding city from the palace, the calming sound of the countless fountains, the lush courtyards, the colorful gardens and beautifully arranged grounds- the way it felt was just indescribable. Literally thousands of people explore the Alhambra each day, but I don't remember the crowds that surely surrounded me. It was so peaceful and quiet, and I wasn't the only one in awe. It's one of those places where there is just no reason to talk.

It was a once in a lifetime experience that I hope to have again someday. The Court of the Lions was being conserved while we were there and it was disappointing not to experience it, but now I have a reason to go back.

I love reliving my adventures through photography. All images were taken by me with my old point and shoot.

Hall of the Ambassadors, muqarnas