Puerta de las Granadas

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Palickap

The Puerta de las Granadas, or Gate of the Pomegranates, is the grand Renaissance gateway that welcomes visitors walking up from Plaza Nueva into the Alhambra's wooded slopes. Built in 1536 by Pedro Machuca-architect of the Palacio de Carlos V-it replaced a much older Moorish defensive gate and became the ceremonial entrance to the Alhambra complex. It remains one of the top attractions in Granada for travellers who enjoy exploring architecturally rich spaces that blend Roman inspiration with Andalusian history.

As you pass beneath its arches and into the Forest of the Alhambra, the shift from the city's bustle to tranquillity is instant. The gate marks the beginning of a gentle ascent through leafy pathways that once served as strategic clearings during Moorish times, and it continues to be a highlight of any walking tour of Granada. Walking through this gateway feels like crossing from the modern city into centuries of layered history.

History and Significance of the Puerta de las Granadas

The site of the Puerta de las Granadas has been an entry point to the Alhambra hill for many centuries. In Moorish times, the original defensive tower here was called Bib al-Buxar-also known as Bib al-Jaudaq or the Door of Gomérez. It protected the valley between the Sabica hill and the Mauror Mountain and sat close to the Nasrid cemetery, where the earliest kings were buried. Remains of this original structure can still be seen on the right-hand side of the Renaissance gate.

After the Christian conquest of Granada, the strategic slopes of the Alhambra could finally be planted with trees, creating the forest imagery we see today. In 1536, the new Renaissance gate designed by Machuca was built to commemorate the visit of Charles I of Spain (also Emperor Charles V) following his marriage to Isabel of Portugal. Constructed in the style of a Roman triumphal arch, it symbolised imperial authority and the city's renewed status within the Spanish monarchy.

The gate was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1870, recognising its value as part of the Alhambra's defensive walls. Its integration of Renaissance art, classical symbolism, and Moorish foundations makes it one of the must-see places in Granada for history lovers.

Things to See and Do in the Puerta de las Granadas

The gateway consists of three stone arches: a large central opening once used by cavalry and two smaller side arches used by pedestrians. The design, carved from fine bonded stone, highlights smooth ashlars and Florentine details that speak to Machuca’s Italian influences. Tuscan semi-columns frame the central arch, giving it a monumental classical presence.

Above the arches, the tympanum displays the Imperial coat of arms flanked by allegorical figures representing Peace and Abundance. Crowning the façade are three carved pomegranates-Granada's emblem-symbolising the city's identity and the linguistic link between granada (pomegranate) and the city's ancient name, Granata.

Standing before the gate, visitors can admire how the Alhambra Forest frames each arch. The right arch leads toward Torres Bermejas, the Manuel de Falla Auditorium, and Carmen de los Mártires, while the left trail leads toward the Puerta de la Justicia and south-facing Alhambra walls. For travellers who enjoy scenic approaches to major monuments, this gateway is one of the best places to visit in Granada.

How to Get to the Puerta de las Granadas

The nearest airports are Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport and Málaga Airport, both offering regional and international flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's main railway station connects the city with Madrid, Málaga, Córdoba, and Seville. From the station, it's a short taxi or bus ride to Plaza Nueva, where the walk toward the gate begins. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is possible, but the Alhambra slopes are pedestrianised. Visitors can park in designated Alhambra car parks and walk down to the gate or approach from the city centre. 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 Puerta de las Granadas sits along the Cuesta de Gomérez, just above Plaza Nueva in Granada's historic centre.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Puerta de las Granadas

• Best time to visit the Puerta de las Granadas: Morning or late afternoon for soft light through the Alhambra Forest.
• Entrance fee in Euros: Free to access; it is an open public gateway.
• Opening hours: Accessible at all times as part of the Alhambra’s surrounding forest paths.
• Official website: Details available via Patronato de la Alhambra y Generalife.
• How long to spend: 10-15 minutes for the gate itself; longer if walking the forest trails.
• Accessibility: The Cuesta de Gomérez is uphill; paths are paved but steep in places.
• Facilities: Cafés, shops, and services available in Plaza Nueva at the base of the hill.
• Photography tip: Frame the gate from the Cuesta de Gomérez to capture the forest through its arches.
• Guided tours: Many Alhambra walking tours begin at or include this gateway.
• Nearby food options: Abundant cafés and tapas bars in Plaza Nueva and the Albaicín.

Where to Stay close to the Puerta de las Granadas

Staying near Plaza Nueva or along the Cuesta de Gomérez provides ideal access to the Puerta de las Granadas and the Alhambra's lower entrances. Boutique hotels in the Albaicín offer atmospheric views of the Alhambra hill, while modern hotels in central Granada provide convenience and easy walking routes. Both areas give travellers excellent access to the gateway and surrounding attractions.

Is the Puerta de las Granadas Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Puerta de las Granadas is definitely worth visiting. Its Renaissance design, historical layers, and symbolic details make it one of the things to do in Granada for travellers beginning their ascent to the Alhambra. The gate also marks the entrance to the beautiful Alhambra Forest, making the approach to the monument both scenic and meaningful.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (1,496)

Puerta de las Granadas is a circa-1536 stone archway featuring an imperial shield that serves as an entrance to a shaded, park-like path up toward the Alhambra; visitors describe it as elegant and photo-worthy, with a steep, sometimes tiring hill that has rest areas and shaded walkways flanked by small water channels, nearby craft shops on the city side, and advice to wear sturdy shoes or an all-terrain stroller and to avoid drinking fountain water.

G D (Savor the Journey)

3 months ago

"The Puerta de las Granadas is a beautiful and historic gateway that sets the tone perfectly for a visit to the Alhambra. As we walked up from thecity, this elegant stone archway felt like stepping into another time, marking the start of the scenic path through the lush woods leading to the palaces. 🌳✨ The surroundings are peaceful and shaded, making it a lovely walk, especially on a warm day. The gate itself, with its classic design and carvings, is simple yet majestic and makes for great photos before heading further up to the Alhambra. 📸 It’s not just an entrance, but a symbolic begi ing to the journey, blending history, nature, and a sense of anticipation for the wonders that await. A must-see if you enjoy exploring Granada on foot and soaking up its timeless charm. ❤️🏛️..."

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Noah Morris

2 years ago

"A beautiful gate to a brutally steep hill which leads to a scenic view of downtown Granada. I also recommend this hike for the traveler who doesn’twant to pay for tickets for Alhambra as this trek is completely free. The hill has many rest areas for those who need a break. If you are tired and thirsty however don’t drink the water coming from the fountains. There is a sign with an slash through a faucet which suggests the water isn’t for human consumption. I accidentally drank some and felt okay afterward but I would be cautious. I recommend walking up the hill towards sunset because it will be less crowded and cooler, plus the views at sunset are breathtaking...."

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Bobby C

2 years ago

"The gate is baroque in style and looks like it was built bu the Spaniards. It leads to a park which has a direct path to the Alhambra fortress. Thegate itself is fairly pedestrian looking, especially from the side of the park, which used to be outside of the city, the part facing the town is a lot more ornate, though still, hardly impressive...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Puerta de las Granadas

Nearby Attractions to the Puerta de las Granadas

• Alcazaba - The Alhambra's oldest fortress, offering sweeping views of Granada.
• Palacio de Carlos V - Renaissance palace with a dramatic circular courtyard.
• Court of the Lions - Iconic Nasrid courtyard with its famous marble fountain.
• Carmen de los Mártires - Peaceful gardens and viewpoints near the forest trails.
• Torres Bermejas - Impressive defensive towers connected historically to the Alhambra walls.

The Puerta de las Granadas 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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