Facade of the Palace of Comares, Granada

Palace in Granada

Patio Cuarto Dorado Palacio Del Mexuar Alhambra 1 Scaled
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Øyvind Holmstad

The Facade of the Palace of Comares is one of the most striking architectural statements in the Palacio de Comares, part of the Palacio Nazaríes in the Alhambra Complex. Standing on the southern side of the Patio del Cuarto Dorado, its carved stucco, elegant twin doors, and symbolic inscriptions were designed to awe visitors approaching the sultan's official residence. Its beauty and historical resonance make it one of the top sights in Granada and a highlight of any walking tour of Granada.

Commissioned by Yusuf I and completed by Mohammed V, the facade was once painted in brilliant colours and served as a ceremonial backdrop—possibly even an outdoor throne space for receiving dignitaries. The craftsmanship and poetry embedded in its design reflect some of the highest achievements of Nasrid art.

History and Significance of the Facade of the Palace of Comares

Yusuf I initiated the construction of this magnificent facade as part of his royal residence, intending to create an architectural statement that expressed legitimacy, splendour, and dynastic power. Although he likely never witnessed its completion, inscriptions confirm that his son Mohammed V finished and expanded the decorative scheme.

The facade stands on a raised three-stepped platform that may have served as a stage for audiences or ceremonial appearances. Its stucco decoration, Quranic inscriptions, and ornamental detail announce the ruler’s authority. The placement of the famous Throne Verse—Quran 2:255—above the central window symbolically reinforces the sultan’s divine mandate and position at the centre of earthly governance.

Poetry also plays a key role. A poem by Ibn Zamrak carved onto the wooden eaves adds a literary layer to the architectural message, blending political imagery with poetic praise.

Things to See and Do at the Facade of the Palace of Comares

The facade features two identical doors with wooden lintels, tiled dados, and intricate plaster-work above. Between these doors and the twin upper windows runs a band of inscriptions including the famous Nasrid motto: “Only God is Victor.”

Look upward to admire the twin windows with canted festoon arches flanking a smaller central window. These openings once looked toward the ruler’s throne space, reinforcing the symbolic hierarchy of the palace.

Above the central window sits the Throne Verse, one of the most powerful and revered passages in the Quran. Its inscription above the presumed throne location highlights the union of spiritual authority and political rule.

The left door leads to a hall decorated with fine plaster-work, a frieze of mocárabes, and an interlaced ceiling painted during the Catholic Monarchs' rule with references to the conquest of Granada. A dark, winding passage from this hall leads directly to the Court of the Myrtles, one of the Alhambra's most iconic courtyards.

How to Get to the Facade of the Palace of Comares

The facade is located on the southern side of the Patio del Cuarto Dorado within the Palacio de Comares. 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 railway station offers regular connections from Málaga, Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona, making train travel a convenient option before visiting the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, remember that parking around the Alhambra is limited and best reserved in advance or approached early. 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 Facade of the Palace of Comares

  • Suggested tips: Spend time reading the inscriptions—both Quranic verses and poetic lines—before stepping into the next section of the palace.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning when the light catches the stucco reliefs.
  • Entrance fee:
  • Opening hours:
  • Official website:
  • How long to spend: Around 10–15 minutes observing the details before continuing to the Court of the Myrtles.
  • Accessibility: Some narrow passages and uneven floors inside the palace.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and cafés can be found elsewhere in the Alhambra.
  • Photography tip: Shoot from a low angle to capture the full structure, from the stepped platform to the upper windows.
  • Guided tours: Many tours explain the symbolism of the Throne Verse and the facade’s ceremonial function.
  • Nearby food options: Cafés near the Alhambra entrance or dining choices in the Albaicín.

Where to Stay close to the Facade of the Palace of Comares

For a stay immersed in the Alhambra’s atmosphere, the elegant Parador de Granada is unmatched. Nearby, Áurea Washington Irving offers luxury themed around the famous writer inspired by the palace. A charming and convenient option close to the complex is Hotel América.

Is the Facade of the Palace of Comares Worth Visiting?

Yes, the facade is an essential stop within the Nasrid Palaces. Its rich symbolic decoration, poetic inscriptions, and architectural refinement provide insight into the politics and artistry of the Nasrid dynasty. It also marks the transition into some of the most beautiful spaces in the Alhambra.

FAQs for Visiting the Facade of the Palace of Comares

Who built the facade?
It was begun by Yusuf I and completed by his son Mohammed V.

Why is the Throne Verse important?
Its placement above the central window symbolises divine support for the ruler’s authority.

What is the motto carved on the facade?
“Only God is Victor,” the famous Nasrid dynastic motto.

Where does the left door lead?
To a plaster-decorated hall and a passage that connects to the Court of the Myrtles.

How long does it take to visit?
Around 10–15 minutes.

Nearby Attractions to the Facade of the Palace of Comares

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Visiting Facade of the Palace of Comares

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