GRANADA

We will spend several days in this important city. During our first day, we will walk along the streets of the new city, familiarizing ourselves with the layout and observing various Islamic monuments, including a funduq (caravansery) where merchants used to rest and store their goods. We will also visit the extant hammam (Arab bath) which was constructed in the 12th century under the Zirid rulers. We will spend the evening in the old city of Granada, known as the albaicin, where the modern Muslim community makes its home. There are many Muslim restaurants and tea shops in this neighborhood.

The following day we will visit the Alhambra palace complex, as well as the summer retreat of the Granadan kings, known as the Generalife (from jannat al-arif, "garden of the architects"). The Alhambra is named for the reddish color of its walls, and was called al-hamra' in Arabic.

There is a free day scheduled in Granada for those who would like to revisit the Alhambra or spend more time in the Albaicin, or simply explore further.