Sala de los Ajimeces, Granada

Historic Room in Granada

Doorway To Sala De Los Ajimeces Alhambra 1
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rumomo

The Sala de los Ajimeces is one of the most tranquil and refined chambers within the Palacio de los Leones, part of the Palacio Nazaríes in the Alhambra Complex. Positioned between the Sala de Dos Hermanas and the Jardín de Daraxa, it acts as a gentle transition from the private royal quarters to one of the palace's loveliest gardens. With its light-filled balconies and richly decorated plasterwork, it is one of the must-see places in Granada and often visited on walking tours of Granada.

This rectangular hall opens to the north onto the Mirador de Daraxa, offering one of the most atmospheric views in the entire Nasrid palace. Its architecture, though modest compared to the grander halls, has an intimacy and harmony that encourage visitors to pause, admire, and breathe in the quiet elegance of this space.

History and Significance of Sala de los Ajimeces

The Sala de los Ajimeces occupies a strategic position within the private chambers of the Nasrid court, connecting living quarters with the serene Jardín de Daraxa. Its placement suggests it was a space for contemplation, conversation, or family life, used by members of the royal household rather than for public ceremonies.

Although the hall dates back to the 14th century, its dome of mocárabes was reconstructed in the 16th century. Below this vault runs a frieze with a dedication to Abu Abd' Allah, the last emir of Granada, offering prayers for divine protection and victory. This inscription gives the hall an added layer of historical resonance, linking it to the final years of Nasrid rule.

Over time, architectural elements have been lost, such as the original wooden latticework of the balconies and the tapestries that once lined the lower walls. Yet the surviving details reveal the lasting elegance of Nasrid artistry.

Things to See and Do in Sala de los Ajimeces

The most eye-catching feature is the twin balconies—ajimeces—from which the hall takes its name. These arched openings once featured intricately carved latticework screens, a hallmark of Nasrid design that allowed air and filtered light while preserving privacy. Even without the original woodwork, the view over the Jardín de Daraxa remains one of the loveliest in the entire complex.

Look upward to admire the mocárabes dome, whose stalactite-like forms were reconstructed in the Christian period but maintain the spirit of the original Nasrid vault. The surrounding frieze, with its dedication to the emir, offers insight into the devotional and political messages embedded in palace design.

The plasterwork along the walls includes religious inscriptions and the Nasrid coat of arms, echoing motifs found throughout the Palacio de los Leones. Although the lower portion of the walls is plain today, the open space hints that tapestries once added vivid colour and texture to the hall.

How to Get to Sala de los Ajimeces

The Sala de los Ajimeces is located within the Palacio de los Leones, reached after passing through the Sala de Dos Hermanas and before entering the Mirador de Daraxa. 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 to Málaga, Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona, making it convenient to arrive by train before visiting the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Visitors coming by car should plan ahead, as parking spaces near the Alhambra are 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 Ajimeces

  • Suggested tips: Spend a quiet moment at the twin balconies to enjoy the view over the Jardín de Daraxa.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon when the light through the balconies is soft.
  • Entrance fee: The Sala de los Ajimeces 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 Ajimeces see Alhambra Opening Times.
  • Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/edificios-lugares/sala-de-los-ajimeces
  • How long to spend: Around 10–15 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Narrow passages and some uneven surfaces may be challenging.
  • Facilities: Cafés and restrooms are located elsewhere in the Alhambra.
  • Photography tip: Frame the mocárabes dome above the twin balconies for a beautifully balanced shot.
  • Guided tours: Many guided tours include this hall and offer insights into its Nasrid craftsmanship.
  • Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés near the Alhambra entrance or in the Albaicín.

Where to Stay close to Sala de los Ajimeces

For a stay immersed in Alhambra history, the atmospheric Parador de Granada is an exceptional choice. Close to the complex entrance, Áurea Washington Irving offers stylish comfort steps from the palace. For a charming and convenient base, Hotel América remains a favourite among travellers.

Is Sala de los Ajimeces Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Sala de los Ajimeces is absolutely worth visiting. Its graceful architecture, gentle light, and intimate placement between palace chambers and gardens make it one of the most evocative spaces in the Nasrid Palaces. The views over the Jardín de Daraxa alone make this hall a memorable stop.

FAQs for Visiting Sala de los Ajimeces

Why is it called the Hall of the Ajimeces?
It is named after the twin balconies—ajimeces—on its north wall.

What can you see from the balconies?
They overlook the Jardín de Daraxa and lead into the Mirador de Daraxa.

Is the dome original?
The mocárabes dome was reconstructed in the 16th century.

Is this hall part of the timed-entry section?
Yes, it is within the Nasrid Palaces.

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

Nearby Attractions to Sala de los Ajimeces

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Visiting Sala de los Ajimeces

Hours:

For opening times of the Sala de los Ajimeces see Alhambra Opening Times.

Price:

The Sala de los Ajimeces is part of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.

Granada: 1 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

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