Private Granada tours and day trips to the best sights of Andalusia

The Umayyad dynasty was then succeeded by the dynasties of the Zirid, the Almohad and finally the Nasrid. During the 13th century, the Spanish Reconquista was well in motion and the city became a place of Muslim refuge. However, most of the Moorish kingdom of Al-Andalus had been reconquered by the Christian, it was during this period that Granada enjoyed the most successful economy. Under the control of the Nasrid dynasty, Granada experienced a golden age and became one of the most prominent cities in Europe, rich in both Culture and wealth. Most of the Alhambra palaces are dated back to this period.

The Spanish Reconquista officially ended in 1492, when the Sultan of Granada, Muhammad XII 'Boabdil', surrendered the city to Isabel I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, the Catholic Monarchs (los Reyes Catolicos). This event marked the beginning of the Spanish inquisition also known as the 'blood purification' (Limpieza de sangre), along with the religious persecutions of the Muslims and Jews.

A long decline occurred in Granada due to the persecutions, from the 17th century. During the 19th century, Romanticism put an end to this by initiating a restoration of all Islamic heritage.

As of the rest of 20th century Spain, Granada lived through Franco's rule. Although the city was on the side of Franco, some people rebelled. 4000 or more of Granada citizens were assassinated at the start of the Civil War in Spain. 

Today Granada is famous for its vibrant cafe and restaurant culture as well as its Muslim heritage, especially the Alhambra palace.