Generalife Gardens, Granada

Generalife Gardens

The Generalife Gardens surround the beautiful Casas Reales in the Alhambra complex in Granada, southern Spain.

The meaning of Generalife, "the garden of lofty paradise," certainly fits the wonderful orchards, pastures, and flower beds. In the 13th century, the Generalife served as the country estate of the Nasrid kings. Here, the kings would escape to enjoy themselves high above the city (closer to the heavens). One feature that was particularly intriguing in the gardens was the system of running water. From the Escalera del Agua, leading to the highest point of the gardens, there is a small stream of water that flows down to the remainder of the gardens.

The sight of these gardens are truly refreshing.