How long does it take to walk the Granada Cathedral area?

The walk itself is short, but with stops, it takes about 2 to 3 hours. You should plan for at least 45 minutes inside the Cathedral and 40 minutes in the Royal Chapel to appreciate the art and history.

Is the Granada Cathedral worth visiting?

Yes, it is one of the most important Renaissance buildings in Spain. The scale of the interior and the unique 'temple of light' design make it a must-see for anyone interested in architecture or history.

Can I see the tombs of Isabella and Ferdinand?

Yes, the tombs are located in the Royal Chapel (Capilla Real). The chapel is a separate building next to the Cathedral and requires its own entry, but it is the final resting place of the Catholic Monarchs.

What is the Corral del Carbón?

It is a 14th-century Nasrid building that served as an inn and warehouse for merchants. Located near the city center, it is free to enter the courtyard and is the oldest preserved monument of its kind in Spain.

Is the Granada city center walk easy for seniors?

Yes, this specific route is very flat and covers a small geographic area. There are plenty of benches in Plaza de Bib-Rambla and cafes throughout the route for resting.

What is the best time of day to explore central Granada?

The morning is best, ideally starting around 10:00 AM. This allows you to visit the monuments before they close for the afternoon siesta and avoids the late afternoon heat.

Are there many stairs on this walking route?

No, this route is largely step-free. The walk between the Cathedral, the Madraza, and the Corral del Carbón is on flat, paved streets, making it accessible for most travelers.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into the heart of Granada’s history with a self-guided walk that explores the profound transformation of the city following the Christian Conquest in 1492. This neighborhood stroll takes you through the geographic and symbolic center of Granada, where the legacy of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, forever reshaped the urban landscape. As you follow this walking route, you will witness the architectural shift from the intricate Nasrid style to the grand Gothic and Renaissance monuments that define the city today. The journey begins at the monumental Granada Cathedral, a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance that stands as a powerful symbol of the new era. Right next door, you will encounter the Royal Chapel, an exquisite Gothic mausoleum where the monarchs themselves are buried. This area serves as a physical timeline, illustrating how the city transitioned from the last stronghold of Al-Andalus to a pivotal center of the Spanish Empire. Beyond the grand religious sites, this audio walk leads you to the Palacio de la Madraza, once an Islamic university, and the Corral del Carbón, the oldest monument left by the Nasrids in the city, offering a rare glimpse into the commercial life of the 14th century. Exploring independently allows you to soak in the atmosphere of Plaza de Bib-Rambla, a square that has witnessed everything from medieval jousting to modern-day flower markets. This travel experience is perfect for those who appreciate the intersection of art, power, and religion. By choosing a self-guided walk Granada offers, you can linger over the intricate stone carvings or pause for a coffee in a historic square without the pressure of a group. Discover the stories of queens, knights, and architects who built a 'New Jerusalem' in the south of Spain on this fascinating journey through the Christian heart of the city.

Highlights

Marvel at the grand Renaissance facade and interior of the Granada Cathedral

Visit the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of Isabella and Ferdinand

See the Palacio de la Madraza, a former 14th-century Islamic university

Explore the Corral del Carbón, the best-preserved Nasrid inn in Spain

Relax in the historic Plaza de Bib-Rambla, the city's ancient social hub

Tour Stops (5)

Catedral de Granada

Welcome to the Cathedral of the Incarnation, a towering symbol of the Christian Conquest. Construction began in 1523 on the site of the city’s Great Mosque, signaling the definitive end of Islamic rule. While originally planned as a Gothic structure, the design shifted toward the Renaissance style under architect Diego de Siloé. Look up at the massive circular windows and the soaring white columns that create an incredible sense of light and space. Unlike the darker Gothic cathedrals of Northern Europe, this building was designed to be a 'temple of light.' It took 181 years to complete, which explains the blend of architectural influences you see on the facade today.

Royal Chapel of Granada

Adjacent to the Cathedral is the Capilla Real, or Royal Chapel. This is one of the most significant sites in Spanish history, as it contains the marble tombs of the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella and Ferdinand. They chose to be buried here in Granada, the city they conquered, rather than in their ancestral capitals. The building is a stunning example of Isabelline Gothic architecture, characterized by intricate stonework and crests. Inside, you’ll find a magnificent gilded altarpiece and a private collection of Flemish paintings once owned by Queen Isabella. It remains a place of great solemnity and a testament to the monarchs' devotion to the city.

Palacio de la Madraza

Standing directly across from the Royal Chapel is the Palacio de la Madraza. Founded in 1349 by Yusuf I, it was the first university in Granada. After the conquest, it was converted into the city’s first City Hall. While the exterior you see today is a colorful 18th-century Baroque facade, the interior hides a stunning secret: a beautifully preserved Nasrid oratory or prayer room. The intricate stucco work and the mihrab—the niche indicating the direction of Mecca—serve as a reminder of the building’s Islamic origins. It represents the layering of cultures that defines Granada, where Christian and Islamic history are literally built on top of one another.

Corral del Carbón

A short walk brings you to the Corral del Carbón, the oldest monument from the Nasrid dynasty in Granada. Built in the early 14th century, it served as an 'alhóndiga'—a combination of a warehouse and an inn for traveling merchants. Its name, 'Coal House,' comes from its later use as a storage site for charcoal. Enter through the magnificent horseshoe arch, which is decorated with intricate brickwork and muqarnas. The central courtyard, surrounded by wooden galleries, would have been bustling with traders from across the Mediterranean. It is the only building of its kind preserved in its entirety on the Iberian Peninsula, offering a rare look at medieval commercial life.

Plaza de Bib-Rambla

Our route concludes at Plaza de Bib-Rambla, often called the 'heart of the city.' In the Nasrid era, this square was located near the main gate of the city walls and was used for festivals and commerce. Following the Christian Conquest, it became the site of bullfights, jousting tournaments, and, more somberly, the public trials and book burnings of the Inquisition. Today, the atmosphere is far more peaceful. The square is famous for its flower stalls and the central 'Fontana de los Gigantes' or Giants' Fountain. It’s the perfect place to sit down for chocolate and churros—a local tradition—while reflecting on the centuries of history that have unfolded in this very space.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the Cathedral and Royal Chapel area is the best way to see the city center. This route covers the core of the Christian Conquest history, including the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs and the grand Renaissance Cathedral.