Photo: Famous Architecture Alhambra City Of Granada Andalusia Spain

Finely detailed columns within the Chamber of the Lions at Alhambra Palace are among the most famous pieces of architecture in the city of Granada, Andalusia, Spain.

This photo featuring the 124 intricately detailed ornamental columns in the Chamber of the Lions within Alhambra Palace showcases the splendor of the famous, sensuously decorative Moorish architecture found in the city of Granada, Andalusia, Spain.

While the whole of the palace is constructed from modest materials such as plaster, tiles and timber, the columns are made of impressive white marble. They are irregularly placed to support horseshoe Moorish arches, the clay tile roof and low gallery which frame the court. Each column features delicate carvings of variations of foliage, large squares of arabesque and filigree work.

The finely detailed columns also serve as an impressive accent for the Fountain of Lions located at the center of the court, which consists of an alabaster basin resting on 12 compactly designed white marble lions. ... continue below the picture...

This picture is part of the photo album "Alhambra Pictures" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.

... Water jetting from the basin as well as each lion's mouth symbolize strength and courage, and originally served to cool the patio as well as provide a place for relaxation and quiet contemplation.

The light-filled, airy palace was built while the Nasrid dynasty ruled Granada, specifically under the reigns of Ismail I, Yusuf I and Muhammad V. The purpose of the palace was to create an image of power and to create their idea of paradise on Earth. It has survived pillage and decay over the centuries, including an attempt by Napoleon to demolish it with explosives. Having undergone recent restoration it stands as a lasting testament to the superb craftsmanship of the Moorish architectural style famous in Spain.

In 1984, the Alhambra Palace was honored by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which declared it a World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural importance to the common heritage of humanity.

Details of columns in the Chamber of the Lions (Cuarto de los Leones), The Royal House (Casa Real), The Alhambra (La Alhambra) - designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, City of Granada, Province of Granada, Andalusia (Andalucia), Spain, Europe.