Things to do in Barrio de la Vega

As early as the ninth century, fortifications stood on the hill where the Alhambra now overlooks the city of Granada. Today, see the opulent palace whose transformation began in the 13th century.

Granada Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of Santa María de la Encarnación and is considered a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Walk under the magnificent dome and admire the statues, paintings and chapels before visiting the crypt where two of Spain’s best-loved monarchs lay at eternal rest.

Historic buildings, pavement café’s and a position in the heart of the old city make Plaza Nueva a popular place for visitors and locals alike. The name may translate as “New Plaza” but the square is in fact one of the oldest in the city. It was built in the 16th century to cover up part of the River Darro and create more space.

The Mirador San Nicolás is a hilltop plaza at one of the highest points of the Albaicín, Granada’s old Moorish quarter. This well-known lookout point provides panoramic views of the city, the magnificent Alhambra fortress-palace, the Vega de Granada (Meadows of Granada) and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Science Park, opened in the Distrito Ronda area of Granada in 1995, is one of the most visited museums in the Andalusia region. “Parque de las Ciencias,” as it is known locally, is a fascinating, interactive park and museum with a focus on scientific education for families.

Palacio de Generalife was a royal summer retreat within the Alhambra, a magnificent fortress that housed the sultans who ruled Granada until 1492. This soothing sanctuary of pools, courtyards, flower borders, mazes, topiaries and walkways is considered one of the world’s great gardens and continues to influence garden design today.