The history of the Alhambra is linked to the geographical location where it is located, Granada; On a rocky hill of difficult access, on the banks of the river Darro, protected by the mountains and surrounded by forest, among the oldest districts of the city, the Alhambra rises like an imposing castle of reddish tones in its walls that hide to the Exterior the delicate beauty of its interior.
Designed as a military zone at the beginning, the Alhambra became the royal residence and court of Granada in the mid-13th century after the establishment of the Nasrid Kingdom and the construction of the first palace by the founding king Mohammed ibn Yusuf Ben Nasr, better known as Alhamar.

Throughout the s. XIII, XIV and XV, the fortress becomes a citadel of high walls and defensive towers, which houses two main areas: the military zone or Alcazaba, barracks of the royal guard, and the medina or palatine city, where the famous Nasrid Palaces and the remains of the houses of nobles and plebeians who lived there. The Palace of Carlos V , (built after the city was seized in 1492 by the Catholic Monarchs) , Is also in the medina.

Across from the Alhambra, surrounded by gardens and orchards, stands the Generalife, a separate palace enjoyed by the Granadine monarchs.

The name Alhambra has its origins in an Arabic word meaning “red castle or vermilion”, perhaps due to the color tone of the towers and walls that completely surround the hill of La Sabica, which under the light of the stars is Of silver color, but in the light of the sun acquires a golden tone. Although there is a more poetic explanation, narrated by the Muslim chroniclers who talk about the construction of the Alhambra “under the light of the torches.” Created originally for military purposes, the Alhambra was a fortress, a palace and a small city, all at the same time. This triple character helps us understand the many characteristics of this monument.
Muhammed Al-Ahmar, the dynasty’s founder, commenced restoration work on the ancient fortress, a task continued by his son Muhammed II and subsequent rulers. The construction of the palaces, known as Casa Real Vieja, primarily took place in the 14th century under the reigns of two influential kings, Yusuf I and Muhammed V. Yusuf I is credited with the Fourth Comares, the Door of Justice, the Baths, and several towers, among other architectural marvels. His son, Muhammed V, contributed further by embellishing the palaces with the Hall of Lions, alongside other chambers and fortifications.

In 1492, when the Catholic Monarchs conquered Granada, the Alhambra transitioned into a Christian court. Subsequently, numerous structures were erected to house notable residents, military barracks, a church, and a Franciscan monastery.