Sala de los Abencerrajes, Granada
Historic Room in Granada
The Sala de los Abencerrajes is one of the most atmospheric and symbolically charged rooms inside the Palacio de los Leones, part of the Palacio Nazaríes in the Alhambra. Tucked just south of the Patio de los Leones, this chamber was once the king's private quarters, designed for quiet retreat, cool airflow, and a refined sense of royal luxury. Its muqarnas dome, lit by small openings that create an almost celestial glow, makes this room one of the top attractions in Granada and a great place to visit on a walking tour of Granada.
The hall immediately draws you in with its harmonious proportions and serene layout, especially the quiet alcoves that once served as the Sultan’s private sitting areas. Exquisite arches, blue capitals, and painted ceilings create a space that feels both intimate and majestic. Its atmosphere shifts beautifully as the light moves across the dome, giving the room a gentle sense of movement and mystery.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Things to See and Do in Sala de los Abencerrajes
- How to Get to Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Practical Tips on Visiting Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Where to Stay close to Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Is Sala de los Abencerrajes Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Nearby Attractions to Sala de los Abencerrajes
History and Significance of Sala de los Abencerrajes
The Sala de los Abencerrajes belongs to the Palacio de los Leones, constructed during the reign of Muhammad V in the 14th century, at the height of Nasrid architectural brilliance. As the king's bedroom, the hall was designed to remain cool during Andalusia's intense summers, with its high ceiling encouraging warm air to rise and the central fountain bringing fresh humidity into the room.
The hall's name comes from a dramatic legend involving the noble Abencerraje clan, whose tragic downfall supposedly unfolded within these very walls. Whether or not the massacre truly occurred remains debated, but the story has infused the hall with an aura of myth and melancholy for centuries. This blend of architectural mastery and haunting folklore makes it one of the must-see places in Granada.
The space also served a practical function as a private royal retreat, with the upper floor historically used as the harem, reserved exclusively for women. Much of the original Nasrid plaster-work survives, offering a rare glimpse into the vivid colours and patterns that once covered the palace interiors. Even the Andalusian-style plinth added in the 16th century reveals layers of history shaped by later influences.
Things to See and Do in Sala de los Abencerrajes
The highlight of any visit is the breathtaking muqarnas dome, one of the finest examples in all of Islamic architecture. Its star-shaped vaulting features sixteen sides supported by intricate stalactite formations, creating the impression of a crystallised sky floating above the hall. Small latticed openings allow light to enter gradually, giving the dome an almost otherworldly luminosity.
Visitors are often captivated by the twelve-sided marble fountain, perfectly aligned beneath the dome. The reflections of the ceiling in the still water add to the dreamlike quality of the space. Many notice the rust-coloured stains on the fountain, which local legend claims are the blood of the murdered Abencerrajes knights.
Spend time studying the hall’s exquisite plaster-work, which is largely original and reveals the sophistication of Nasrid artisans. The arches, capitals, and painted wooden ceilings display motifs connected to royal power, paradise imagery, and Quranic inscriptions-including the phrase on the pendentives reminding visitors that all help comes from God, the merciful.
How to Get to Sala de los Abencerrajes
The Sala de los Abencerrajes is inside the Alhambra Complex, accessible only with an Alhambra ticket that includes entry to the Nasrid Palaces. The closest major airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport, located just outside the city. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.
Granada is well connected by train to cities like Málaga, Seville, Madrid, and Barcelona, making it easy to reach before heading up to the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Travelling by car is also possible, though parking near the Alhambra is limited and best arranged in advance. 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 Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Suggested tips: Arrive early to enjoy quieter moments inside the Nasrid Palaces and take your time admiring the muqarnas dome.
- Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for softer interior light and smaller crowds.
- Entrance fee: The Sala de los Abencerrajes 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 Sala de los Abencerrajes see [link_post post_id="3786" anchor="opening" type="link"]Alhambra Opening Times[/link_post].
- Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/edificios-lugares/sala-de-los-abencerrajes
- How long to spend: 10-20 minutes inside the hall, longer if you enjoy studying architectural details.
- Accessibility: The Nasrid Palaces have some narrow passages and uneven surfaces; accessibility varies by section.
- Facilities: Toilets and cafés available elsewhere in the Alhambra Complex.
- Photography tip: Capture the reflection of the muqarnas dome in the basin of the central fountain for a striking symmetrical shot.
- Guided tours: Many Alhambra tours include the Nasrid Palaces, providing historical insight and architectural context.
- Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés can be found near the Alhambra entrance and in the Albaicín district below.
Where to Stay close to Sala de los Abencerrajes
Staying close to the Alhambra lets you enjoy early morning visits before crowds become heavy. The nearby Parador de Granada offers a remarkable experience within the former monastery grounds inside the complex. For something at the foot of the hill, Hotel América provides a charming and convenient base. Travellers seeking modern comforts may prefer Áurea Washington Irving, located just a short walk from the main entrance.
Is Sala de los Abencerrajes Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Sala de los Abencerrajes is absolutely worth including in any Alhambra itinerary. Its legendary history, intimate design, and spectacular muqarnas dome make it one of the most memorable spaces within the Nasrid Palaces. The combination of royal intimacy, architectural mastery, and centuries-old storytelling creates a deeply atmospheric experience.
What Other Travellers Say...
Sala de los Abencerrajes, in the Alhambra complex at C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, is a highly decorated hall famed for its ornate stucco, arches and a star-shaped muqarnas cupola that seems to float above the room; visitors note its intricate architectural detail, exceptional acoustics with a clear echo beneath the dome, and recommend lingering in the center to admire the ceiling, while timed entries help keep it from feeling crowded.
FAQs for Visiting Sala de los Abencerrajes
Nearby Attractions to Sala de los Abencerrajes
- Patio de los Leones: The iconic marble courtyard at the centre of the palace complex.
- Sala de las Dos Hermanas: Another remarkable hall with an equally stunning muqarnas dome.
- Mexuar: One of the oldest Nasrid palace sections, once used for administrative functions.
- Generalife Gardens: Elegant summer gardens offering spectacular views and peaceful walks.
- Alcazaba: The Alhambra's ancient fortress, providing panoramic views over Granada.
The Sala de los Abencerrajes 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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Planning Your Visit
For opening times of the Sala de los Abencerrajes see Alhambra Opening Times.
The Sala de los Abencerrajes is part of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.
Nearby Attractions
- Torre de la Rauda (0.0) km
Tower - Patio de los Leones (0.0) km
Courtyard - Sala de los Reyes (0.0) km
Historic Room - Palacio de los Leones (0.0) km
Palace - Sala de los Mocárabes (0.0) km
Historic Room - Sala de Dos Hermanas (0.0) km
Historic Room - Mirador de Daraxa (0.0) km
Viewing Point - El Baño de Comares (0.0) km
Baths - Sala de los Ajimeces (0.0) km
Historic Room - Museum of the Alhambra (0.1) km
Museum
