Corral del Carbón, Granada

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Palickap

The Corral del Carbón is one of the most atmospheric historic buildings in central Granada, originally built in 1336 as an alhóndiga, or grain store and lodging house for merchants. Located at the southern edge of the old Muslim city near the Alcaicería, it later became a coal market under Christian rule and remains one of the must-see places in Granada for anyone interested in Andalusian history. Its ornate entrance and peaceful courtyard make it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Granada.

Today, the building hosts cultural institutions, craft workshops, and occasional open-air performances, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant life that once filled this medieval commercial hub.

History and Significance of the Corral del Carbón

Built during the reign of Yusuf I in 1336, the Corral del Carbón originally served as Granada's main corn exchange and inn for travelling merchants. Its location beside the silk market made it a vital part of the city's commercial network. After the Christian conquest, the building passed through private hands and was transformed into a coal market, which gave rise to its modern name.

In 1593 it became a corral de comedias-a theatrical courtyard used for performances, social gatherings, and community events. By the early 20th century the structure was in danger of demolition until it was rescued and restored by Leopoldo Torres Balbás, one of Spain’s most influential conservation architects.

Things to See and Do at the Corral del Carbón

The most striking feature is the monumental double-arched entrance gate, decorated with scalloped brickwork and intricate plaster arabesques. Above the arch sits a Quranic inscription proclaiming the oneness of God, a rare survival of Nasrid religious text in Granada’s civic architecture.

Inside the long entrance hall are blind arches with stone seats and a beautifully crafted wooden ceiling. This leads into the almost square courtyard, once filled with goods, animals, and merchants staying on the upper floors. The galleries surrounding the patio originally contained 44 small lodging rooms where traders slept on mats.

Two water pipes-one fed from the Darro river and the other from the Genil-once flowed through the central pillar. Today, the courtyard is peaceful, often used for concerts, readings, and cultural events.

How to Get to the Corral del Carbón

The Corral del Carbón is in the historic centre of Granada, just off Calle Reyes Católicos.
The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's main train station connects easily with Málaga, Madrid, and Seville, making a rail journey straightforward for visitors planning to explore the city. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, be aware that the old town has restricted access and limited parking-using a nearby car park and walking in is usually best. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Corral del Carbón

• Suggested tips: Step inside even if you only have a few minutes-the courtyard is quiet, shaded, and perfect for a short break.
• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon when the entrance arch is softly lit.
• Entrance fee: Free
• Opening hours: Monday - Friday 9:00 - 19:00
  Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 14:00
• Official website:
• How long to spend: 20-30 minutes is enough for a relaxed visit.
• Accessibility: The ground floor is mostly level, though some areas have uneven stone surfaces.
• Facilities: Nearby cafés and shops around Calle Reyes Católicos.
• Photography tip: Capture the double-arched entrance from a low angle to frame the intricate plasterwork.
• Guided tours: Some Granada history tours include short stops here.
• Nearby food options: Plenty of tapas bars around Plaza Nueva and Bib-Rambla.

Where to Stay Close to the Corral del Carbón

For easy access to Granada’s historic centre, consider Eurostars Catedral. A stylish option nearby is Hotel Casa 1800 Granada. For a boutique experience in a restored noble house, try Gar Anat Hotel Boutique.

Is the Corral del Carbón Worth Visiting?

Yes-its combination of Moorish architecture, medieval commercial history, and tranquil courtyard atmosphere makes it one of Granada’s most interesting heritage sites. It offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of merchants during the Nasrid period.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (3,923)

Corral del Carbón, on C. Mariana Pineda in Granada's Centro, is a Moorish-style 1300s caravanserai with a central courtyard featuring vines, a fountain and a decorative pool; visitors report detailed wood carvings, an airy open ceiling, and well-decorated surroundings. Entry is free and the courtyard is the main area open to the public; the site now houses some private offices but also offers a public toilet and a small gift shop nearby. It's compact—most people spend 15–30 minutes—and best visited in daylight to appreciate the intricate details; an adjacent exhibit explains Moorish gardens.

Merahilpeyma

a month ago

"In one word: extraordinary—a place so delightful and full of beautiful energy that it can’t be captured in words or described adequately. Everyonemust go. From the outside, it’s a stu ing Andalusian structure, but inside... You enter through an area filled with incredibly detailed wood carvings; the ceiling is actually open but covered with vines, making it very airy and refreshing. In the center, a babbling fountain and decorative pool welcome you like an ancient Arab caravanserai. When you go, you’ll understand: this place fills your soul with peace and happiness; it’s bursting with the scent of life and history. You absolutely must visit...."

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Ali

9 months ago

"Nestled at the footsteps of Alhambra, is Corral Del Carbon. It is a Moorish style property from the 1300s that was once an accommodation fortraveling merchants during the Nasirid period. With a beautiful courtyard at its centre, it also had its own traders market within. The property is free to enter for visitors and tourists, and there is a public toilet on site as well. It's best to see this place during daylight hours as much of the intricate details are not noticeable in the evening hours. We spent about 20 minutes here. Worth a visit if you are in the area or want to take a break from the shopping plaza across the street...."

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Austin Prosser

a month ago

"An Nasrid era caravanserai that is free to visit but is mainly private offices today."

FAQs for Visiting the Corral del Carbón

Nearby Attractions to the Corral del Carbón

• Alcaicería: Granada's reconstructed Moorish bazaar.
• Cathedral of Granada: A grand Renaissance cathedral nearby.
• Plaza Bib-Rambla: A lively square with cafés and flower stalls.
• Plaza Nueva: Gateway to the Albaicín.
• Royal Chapel of Granada: Burial place of the Catholic Monarchs.

The Corral del Carbón appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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