Palacio de Comares, Granada

Palace in Granada

Palacio de Comares in Granada is one of the main Nasrid palaces inside the Alhambra complex. It served as the official residence of the sultans and is arranged around the Court of the Myrtles, where a long pool reflects the arches, galleries, and tower above it.

Visitors come here for the sequence of spaces: the decorated façade, the passage into the palace, the Sala de la Barca, and the Salón de los Embajadores in the Torre de Comares. The rooms show tiled walls, plaster carving, wooden ceilings, and formal throne-room design, so this site works best for travellers interested in Islamic architecture, royal interiors, and the political centre of medieval Granada.

History and Significance of Palacio de Comares
Things to See and Do in Palacio de Comares
How to Get to Palacio de Comares
Practical Tips on Visiting Palacio de Comares
Where to Stay close to Palacio de Comares
Is Palacio de Comares Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Palacio de Comares

History and Significance of Palacio de Comares

The Palacio de Comares was created as the Sultan's official residence and the centre of government for the Nasrid dynasty. Yusuf I envisioned a palace whose decoration would astonish visitors, commissioning exquisite plasterwork, carved wood, ceramics, and geometric ornamentation. Although he initiated much of the construction, inscriptions reveal that Mohammed V finished the works and added the magnificent façade in the Patio del Cuarto Dorado.

This palace contained the throne room of the entire Nasrid kingdom, making it the political heart of the Alhambra. The decorative schemes throughout the palace-Quranic inscriptions, poetic verses, muqarnas, and geometric motifs-express the cultural and spiritual worldview of its rulers. This spot is one of the best places to see in the Alhambra to grasp the ambition and artistry of Nasrid Granada.

Things to See and Do in Palacio de Comares

The palace is organised around the Patio de los Arrayanes, also known as the Court of the Myrtles. Its long central pool reflects the porticoes, the tower, and the sky, creating one of the Alhambra's most iconic views. Two porticoes with seven arches each frame the patio, with lattice windows and upper galleries rising on the southern side.

From the northern gallery, visitors enter the Sala de la Barca, whose ceiling-a 19th-century replacement of the original destroyed in a fire-evokes the Arabic notion of baraka, or blessing. Beyond it lies the Salón de los Embajadores, a vast throne room inside the Torre de Comares. Its glazing, stucco décor, and wooden dome symbolise the seven heavens of Islamic cosmology. According to legend, both the decision to surrender Granada and Columbus's appeal to the Catholic Monarchs took place inside this hall.

Other highlights include the Sala de los Embajadores' small oratory, the façade of the Cuarto Dorado, and the subtle details of the palace's inscriptions and woodwork.

How to Get to Palacio de Comares

Visitors flying into Granada typically arrive via Granada Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's train station connects easily to major Spanish cities, making arrival by rail a convenient option before heading up to the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If travelling by car, dedicated parking areas near the main Alhambra entrance provide access to the palaces through a short walk. 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.

The Palacio de Comares is located within the Palacio Nazaríes area of the Alhambra Complex.

Practical Tips on Visiting Palacio de Comares

Suggested tips: Take your time inside the Hall of the Ambassadors to appreciate the poetic inscriptions and intricate wooden dome.
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer light over the Court of the Myrtles.
Entrance fee: The Palacio de Comares is part of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.
Opening hours: For opening times of the Palacio de Comares see [link_post post_id="3786" anchor="opening" type="link"]Alhambra Opening Times[/link_post].
Official website:
How long to spend: Around 40-60 minutes to explore the patio, halls, and tower interior.
Accessibility: Narrow passages, steps, and uneven surfaces may present difficulties in some areas.
Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are available elsewhere within the Alhambra.
Photography tip: Capture the reflections in the Patio de los Arrayanes’ long pool during calm weather.
Guided tours: Many tours focus on the Nasrid Palaces and include detailed explanations of the Comares ensemble.
Nearby food options: On-site cafés and restaurants are located closer to the main entrances.

Where to Stay close to Palacio de Comares

For an immersive stay near the Nasrid palaces, the historic Parador de Granada offers unmatched proximity. A charming mid-range choice is Hotel América, located within the complex. For a modern stay just outside the walls, Eurostars Washington Irving provides stylish comfort inspired by Alhambra themes.

Is Palacio de Comares Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Palacio de Comares is absolutely essential when visiting the Alhambra. As the ceremonial and political nucleus of Nasrid power, it combines exquisite artistry with historic significance, offering some of the most memorable spaces in the entire monument. Its patios, halls, and tower are among the finest expressions of Islamic architecture in Spain.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.9 (211)

Patio de los Arrayanes at the Palacio Nazaries in La Alhambra is an elegant, tranquil courtyard centered on a reflective pool framed by sculpted myrtle hedges and arcades; visitors praise its striking symmetry and reflections, intricate stucco details, and peaceful atmosphere, though it can get crowded—many recommend visiting in the early morning or near dusk for the best light and photos.

David Stanley

3 months ago

"The 14th century Comares Palace of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, was accessed via two symmetrical doorways off the Mexuar courtyard. The ComaresFaçade was the entrance to the sultan's private chambers. The stu ing Patio de los Arrayanes (Court of Myrtles) was the heart of the palace...."

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Anthony Chan

2 years ago

"The poster child and main highlight of the palace. The buildings reflect in the pool and the symmetry of the buildings is really good. You shouldvisit during early mornings or near dusk so you can get good photos with good angles of sunlight..."

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Bobby C

2 years ago

"Wonderful architecture! one of the two most photographed places in Alhambra. The reflecting pool and the arcades draw the attention of most but don'tmiss the details of the stuccowork which is equally beautiful. The courtyard can really fill up with people, so be prepared for masses of tourists...."

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Asad Lone

a year ago

"## Stepping into Paradise: A Review of the Patio de los Arrayanes The Patio de los Arrayanes, nestled within the heart of Alhambra's Nasrid Palaces,transcends the realm of mere courtyards. It's a sensory poem etched in water, marble, and sky, a masterpiece where Islamic artistry and nature co-mingle in breathtaking harmony. Stepping into this haven is like stepping into a bygone era, where Moorish sultans strolled amidst the whispering myrtle hedges and the sun played hide-and-seek on the still waters of the reflecting pool. **A Feast for the Eyes:** Imagine a long, rectangular canvas, delicately framed by colo ades adorned with intricate arabesques. Sunlight dances through the filigree, casting mesmerizing patterns on the cool, white marble floor. In the center, a mirror of water stretches languidly, its surface reflecting the grandeur of the surrounding architecture and the infinite expanse of the cerulean sky. The air hums with the gentle gurgle of fountains, while the scent of myrtle leaves infuses the atmosphere with a calming fragrance. **Tranquility Found:** Amidst the grandeur, an aura of serenity prevails. The rhythmic murmur of water and the soft rustle of leaves lull the mind into a state of quietude. Here, time seems to slow, inviting introspection and mindful appreciation. Whether you choose to sit on a cool bench, allowing the beauty to wash over you, or wander along the shaded arcades, absorbing the intricate details, the Patio de los Arrayanes offers a sanctuary for the soul. **Beyond the Beauty:** This courtyard is not just a feast for the senses; it's a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of a bygone era. The clever use of water and light creates an illusion of spaciousness, while the meticulous geometric patterns and delicate carvings whisper tales of a rich cultural heritage. Each element, from the glistening pool to the sculpted hedges, plays a role in the harmonious composition, making the Patio de los Arrayanes a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. **A Must-See for Every Traveler:** Whether you're an architecture aficionado, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a moment of tranquility, the Patio de los Arrayanes is an experience not to be missed. It's a place that lingers in the memory long after you leave, a reminder of the exquisite beauty and cultural richness that the world holds. So, if you find yourself in Granada, don't hesitate to step into this oasis of serenity and immerse yourself in its magic. It will leave you breathless, inspired, and forever changed. **Verdict:** More than just a courtyard, the Patio de los Arrayanes is a sensory journey, a historical tapestry, and a testament to human artistry. It's a must-see for any traveler seeking beauty, tranquility, and a glimpse into a bygone era...."

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Kamran Nobari

5 months ago

"Beautiful and breathtaking . We really enjoyed visiting this beautiful historical place"

FAQs for Visiting Palacio de Comares

It is the central courtyard of the palace, featuring a long reflective pool surrounded by myrtle bushes.

It served as the throne room, where official receptions and key political decisions took place.

It was begun by Yusuf I and completed by Mohammed V.

No, it is a 19th-century reconstruction after a fire destroyed the original.

Around 40-60 minutes for a full visit.

The Palacio de Comares 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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