Court of the Lions, Islamic courtyard in Alhambra, Spain
The Court of the Lions is a rectangular courtyard within the Alhambra featuring a central marble fountain surrounded by twelve lion sculptures. One hundred twenty-four white marble columns form a covered gallery around the space, creating an enclosed, sheltered area.
Sultan Muhammad V commissioned this courtyard between 1362 and 1391, when Granada stood at the height of Nasrid power. This period saw some of Spain's most influential Islamic architecture being created.
The fountain basin holds poems by Ibn Zamrak, showing the literary depth valued in medieval Islamic Granada. Walking around, you notice how words and art were woven together in this palace's design.
The courtyard is open to visitors daily, with hours varying by season. Entry is included with Alhambra admission, and visiting early in the day helps avoid the largest crowds.
Four water channels run from the fountain into adjacent halls, revealing advanced engineering hidden from casual view. This underground system was essential to how the space functioned and felt.
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