The Generalife, Nasrid Summer Retreat - What to See and Ticket Options

The Generalife served as the summer residence for the sultans of the Alhambra. It stand as a one-of-a-kind example of Arab art, giving us a rough impression of how these gardens were in the past.


The name 'Generalife' originates from the term 'Yannat al-Arif', meaning 'Garden of the Architect.'

The Generalife is located on the hill known as Cerro del Sol, adjacent to the Alhambra, which in turn is situated on another hill called the Sabika.

The Generalife was divided into four terraced gardens, a residential area, and a meadow surrounding the estate.

Today, access to the Generalife is through the newly created gardens, dating back to 1931 and 1952.

In this vicinity stands the Auditorium (Theater), whose stage, framed by cypress trees, serves as a captivating backdrop for grand ballets and dance companies during the International Festival of Music and Dance.

The captivating Lorca and Granada festival has been an annual event for the past 20 years.

Continuing on, in the central section, a replica of a Hispano-Muslim garden features a intersecting irrigation channel, cypress trees, and splendid views of the Alhambra from the pergola.

Afterwards, we traverse the Patio de las Caballerizas and ascend a staircase to reach the Patio de la Guardia.

Here, we come across a small doorway atop a set of stairs. Beyond it awaits another flight of steps, leading to the private quarters of the Sultan's summer residence.

History of Generalife

Originally, it was most likely an architect's house, which later came into possession of the royal family and underwent remodeling.

The monumental complex of the Alhambra stand out for the abundance and variety of their historic gardens.

Many of these gardens trace back to the Nasrid period, offering valuable insights into life of the Al Andalus.

They are also considered the oldest gardens in Europe. During the Christian era, the gardens underwent remodeling to align with the preferences of the Catholic Monarchs.

As time passed, additional gardens were incorporated, aligning with the prevailing styles of their respective eras, culminating in the most recent addition dating back to the 19th century.

Some sections of the Generalife feature later Christian additions, including the west gallery, the eastern closing building, and the two-story structure ascending along the north wall.

In 1492, following the capture of Granada, Catholic Monarchs appointed a caretaker responsible for overseeing the maintenance and operation of the Generalife.

It wasn't until 1631 that it passed into the inheritance of the Venegas family.

It wasn't until 1921 that the Generalife ultimately became state property.

The Generalife Gardens are characterized by their stunning features: the lush vegetation, the flowing water that interacts with light, and the soothing sounds.

The most beautiful and striking features in the Generalife gardens are the plants, the water with its continuous interplay with light, and its sounds.

The Generalife Palace

The origin of the palace dates back to the Almohad period, the 12th and 13th centuries, but the significant transformation of the Generalife Palace was undertaken by Muhammad III (1302-1309), who constructed the Patio de la Acequia (courtyard).

The layout of the Generalife Palace is centered around this magnificent courtyard, which serves as its focal point.

This globally renowned courtyard, frequently captured in photographs by mesmerized visitors, measures 49 meters in length and 13 meters in width, with the Acequia Real running along its central axis.

In the Nasrid period, the acequia did not feature these symmetrical spouts that create a jumping effect from side to side. These were introduced in the 19th century.

Under the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, the western wall was lowered and arches were incorporated into the gallery.

Unfortunately, this alteration resulted in the loss of the original character of the inner courtyard. The Mirador de la Acequia viewpoint, with its exquisite beauty, stands as the sole original opening in the courtyard.

Additionally, the Generalife Palace can be visited at night, adding an extra touch of magic to an already unforgettable experience.

Is Generalife Worth Visiting?

There are a million reasons why the Generalife is well worth visiting.

Today, it encompasses a collection of historic gardens spanning various periods, along with palatial buildings, some of which date back to the Nasrid period.

Within the Generalife, one can also discover significant irrigation channels like the Acequia Real, as well as remnants of walls and defensive towers from the medieval period.

It stands as the sole remaining example of what Hispano-Muslim gardens were like.

When you visit the Generalife, you'll experience a harmonious blend of light, the soothing sound of water, the fragrance of plants, and the captivating beauty of the surroundings that wonderfully stimulate the senses.

Prices and Ticket Options for the Generalife

The Generalife is included in various ticket options for the Alhambra. These are the available options along with the prices for adults.

Includes the Generalife, Nasrid Palaces and Alcazaba. It is the most comprehensive option, perfect if you want to explore the entire monumental complex.

Includes the Generalife and Alcazaba. Does not include Nasrid Palaces.

Includes just the Generalife and the Patio de la Acequia.

Includes daytime visit to the Generalife and night visit to the Nasrid Palaces.

Includes access to the Generalife, Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba and other 5 monuments of the Albaicín.

Includes the Generalife, Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces + Rodríguez-Acosta Foundation.

View full information on buying tickets for the Generalife in Alhambra Tickets.

When the tickets to the Alhambra are sold out, there are other options to get a ticket. See all information in what to do when the tickets are sold out?

Generalife Opening Hours

About 1.5 hours is enough to see the gardens.

15 March - 14 October
▸ Monday-Sunday: 08:30-20:00 h.
▸ Ticket office is open from 08:00 to 20:00 h.

15 October-14 March
▸ Monday-Sunday: 08:30-18:00 h.
▸ Ticket office is open from 8:00 to 18:00 h.

There are nighttime and daytime visits, to see more information about these visits see Alhambra opening hours page.

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