Puerta Monaita, Islamic city gate in Albaicín, Granada, Spain
Puerta Monaita is an Islamic city gate in Granada's old quarter, built from stone with thick walls and geometric decorative patterns. The structure features a narrow, angled passageway typical of medieval fortifications designed to control entry into the walled area.
Built in the 11th century during the reign of the Zirí Dynasty, this gate served as a key entrance when Granada was expanding as a fortified city. Its construction reflected the defensive needs of the period and the military strategies of Islamic rule.
The name Monaita refers to a mint that once operated nearby in the neighborhood. Today, you can see how this gate fits into the narrow streets of the area and remains part of the local landscape.
The gate sits within the Albaicín neighborhood and is accessible on foot by walking through the winding streets of the old quarter. Plan to spend some time exploring the narrow passages around it, as the layout can be confusing for first-time visitors.
The gate features an unusual angled entrance that forced attackers to change direction multiple times before reaching the passage. This design trick gave defenders advantage points to hold off incoming forces from different angles.
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