Patio de los Arrayanes, Granada

Courtyard in Granada

Patio De Los Arrayanes With Palacio Carlos V Behind Palcia De Comres — Patio de los Arrayanes with Palacio Carlos V behind Palcia de Comres

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Xavi

The Patio de los Arrayanes, or Court of the Myrtles, is the serene and exquisitely balanced central courtyard of the Palacio de Comares, the seat of Nasrid power and government. Built across the reigns of Ismail I, Yusuf I, and Muhammad V-who completed it in 1370-this courtyard was designed as a place of elegance, ceremony, and reflection at the core of the Sultan's official palace. Its beauty and symmetry make it one of the top sights in Granada and a highlight of any walking tour of Granada for those who want to experience the most iconic images of the Alhambra.

The long central pond, perfectly trimmed myrtle hedges, and graceful arches create one of the most photographed scenes in Andalusia. Here, the water becomes a flawless mirror, doubling the porticoes and the imposing Comares Tower in an image that feels almost suspended in time.

History and Significance of the Patio de los Arrayanes
Things to See and Do in the Patio de los Arrayanes
How to Get to the Patio de los Arrayanes
Practical Tips on Visiting the Patio de los Arrayanes
Where to Stay close to the Patio de los Arrayanes
Is the Patio de los Arrayanes Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Patio de los Arrayanes
Nearby Attractions to the Patio de los Arrayanes

History and Significance of the Patio de los Arrayanes

The Patio de los Arrayanes forms the ceremonial centre of the Palacio de Comares, the official headquarters of the Sultan and the seat of governmental and executive authority. The courtyard dates back to the works begun by Ismail I and expanded by Yusuf I, but it was Muhammad V who gave it its final form, enclosing the south side with a gallery that transformed it into a harmonious, secluded space reminiscent of classical atriums.

Its architecture reflects both Nasrid refinement and the palace's political symbolism. Inscriptions praising God and the emir cover the porticoes, reinforcing the divine legitimacy of the ruler. Although part of the palace's southern chambers were later lost during the construction of the Palacio de Carlos V, the courtyard still preserves its essence as the reflective heart of Comares.

Things to See and Do in the Patio de los Arrayanes

The central pond is the courtyard’s defining feature-34 metres long and framed by perfectly clipped myrtle hedges whose deep green contrasts with the white marble paving. Its still waters create a precise reflection of the Nasrid porticoes and the Torre de Comares rising behind the northern gallery, symbolising unity, harmony, and infinity.

Both the north and south porticoes have seven arches, the central one slightly larger and enriched with stucco scallops and stylised plant motifs. The capitals feature intricate muqarnas, a hallmark of Nasrid design. On the east side, discreet doorways lead to private rooms used by the sultan and his court.

The southern gallery includes windows with wooden lattices, a secondary gallery above supported by marble columns, and inscriptions that praise the protection and victory granted by God to the emir. Behind the northern gallery lies the Torre de Comares, which houses the Hall of Ambassadors, the largest throne room in the Alhambra. To reach it, visitors pass through the Barca Room with its beautiful wooden ceiling-a reconstruction of the original, lost to a 19th-century fire.

Look closely at the north gallery to find cupboards with arches, mocárabes domes, and 16th-century tiles bearing a poetic inscription by Ibn Zamrak celebrating Muhammad V's victory in Algeciras.

How to Get to the Patio de los Arrayanes

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 Railway Station connects the city to Madrid, Málaga, and Seville, making train travel convenient. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, use the Ronda Sur to access the Alhambra's parking areas before entering the complex on foot. 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 Patio de los Arrayanes is located within the Palacio de Comares inside the Nasrid Palaces.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Patio de los Arrayanes

Suggested tips: Pause beside the northern edge of the pond to photograph the perfect reflection of the Comares Tower.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon when the water surface is calmest.
Entrance fee: The Patio de los Arrayanes 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 Patio de los Arrayanes see Alhambra Opening Times.
Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/edificios-lugares/patio-de-comares-o-de-los-arrayanes
How long to spend: 10-20 minutes in the courtyard, longer if visiting adjacent rooms.
Accessibility: Some steps and narrow doorways in surrounding spaces.
Facilities: Restrooms and cafés elsewhere in the Alhambra.
Photography tip: Capture the courtyard symmetrically from the southern portico for the finest mirrored view.
Guided tours: Many include detailed interpretation of the courtyard’s symbolism and architecture.
Nearby food options: Cafés near the Palacio de Carlos V.

Where to Stay close to the Patio de los Arrayanes

For an unforgettable stay inside the Alhambra grounds, consider Parador de Granada, offering historic charm. Another excellent option is Hotel America, which places you just steps from the Nasrid Palaces. For modern comfort nearby, Eurostars Washington Irving provides stylish accommodation with easy access to the complex.

Is the Patio de los Arrayanes Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. This courtyard is one of the Alhambra's most iconic spaces, offering extraordinary architectural harmony, rich symbolism, and breathtaking reflections. Its beauty and serenity make it unmissable for anyone visiting Granada.

FAQs for Visiting the Patio de los Arrayanes

Why is it called the Patio de los Arrayanes?
Because of the myrtle hedges surrounding the pond, whose bright green colour gives the courtyard its name.

What is the most famous feature?
The long reflecting pond that mirrors the porticoes and the Comares Tower.

Can I access the Hall of Ambassadors from here?
Yes, entry is through the Barca Room behind the northern gallery.

Nearby Attractions to the Patio de los Arrayanes

Palacio de Comares: The ceremonial palace containing the Hall of Ambassadors.
Patio de Comares (Alberca): Another name for this courtyard emphasising its central pond.
Palacio de los Leones: The sultan's private residential palace nearby.
Patio del Cuarto Dorado: The ceremonial courtyard linking the Mexuar and Comares Palaces.
Torre de Comares: The monumental tower housing the Hall of Ambassadors.

The Patio de los Arrayanes appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

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