Historic Sites
Granada, a city rich in history and culture, is home to some of Spain’s most remarkable historic sites. From its grand cathedral to its ancient arab baths or christian churches, Granada offers a glimpse into the past through its stunning architecture and heritage. This article explores the city’s key historic landmarks, highlighting the Granada Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and its many charming churches, each with its own unique story. While the Alhambra often steals the spotlight, there are many more treasures to discover in Granada. Join us as we delve into the heart of Granada’s historical wonders and uncover the stories behind these magnificent sites.
Granada Cathedral
Located right in the centre of Granada city, the cathedral is one of the finest examples of this architectural style.
In 1529 Diego de Siloé outlined the Renaissance lines of this building upon its Gothic foundations, with a triforium and five naves instead of the usual three. Most unusually, he created a circular capilla mayor rather than a semicircular apse, perhaps inspired by Italian ideas for circular “perfect buildings” (as in Alberti’s works). Within its structure the cathedral combines other orders of architecture. It took 180 years for the cathedral to be completed. In 1667 Alonso Cano added Baroque elements to the main façade. His creation is regarded as a masterpiece.
Opening times: Monday-Saturday 10.45-1:30pm and 4-7pm (8pm in summer). On Sunday and holidays the Cathedral is only open in the afternoon, from 4-7pm (8pm in summer). Entrance on Calle Gran Vía de Colón. Admission costs €3. For further information, telephone: 958222959.
El Monasterio de Cartuja
This 16th-century monastery, located on the outskirts of Granada near the Albaicín, is often referred to as the Christian counterpart to the Alhambra due to its elaborate stucco and marble decorations and the baroque Churrigueresque style in the sacristy. The most notable paintings here are by Bocanegra, and the outstanding sculptures are by Mora. The church of this Carthusian monastery was adorned with baroque stucco in the 17th century, and its 18th-century sacristy is a prime example of late baroque style. It also features an artistic baroque dome. Napoleon’s armies killed St. Bruno at this site.
There is a small gift shop that sells hot and cold drinks, and a peaceful cloister garden with orange trees. Public toilets are available. The monastery is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 and can be reached by the number 8 bus from near Granada Cathedral on the Gran Via. The bus takes you around the back of the Cartuja to a college, but stay on until the Cartuja is visible on the left as the bus goes downhill to a roundabout. The stop is just before the roundabout. The bus comes back this way two minutes later, so don’t worry if you miss the stop.
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