Torre de la Justicia, Granada

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Furtschegger

The Torre de la Justicia is one of the most emblematic gate towers of the Alhambra, standing directly above the Puerta de la Justicia, the fortress's main access point after the Christian conquest. Originally known in Moorish times as Bab Al-Sharía, this inhabited tower served both defensive and administrative roles, later becoming the residence of the warden responsible for monitoring all who entered the palatial city. Its strategic location and layered history make it one of the things to do in Granada for visitors who want to understand how the Alhambra functioned as a living city. It is also a highlight of any walking tour of Granada thanks to its striking architecture and restored exhibition spaces.

Today, after a careful restoration, visitors can enter the tower itself. Inside, an exhibition brings to life the long story of the Puerta de la Justicia through drawings, plans, postcards, archival materials, and part of the historic Jorge Loring library. This renewed space blends architecture, culture, and memory in a way that enriches any visit to the Alhambra.

History and Significance of Torre de la Justicia

The Torre de la Justicia, along with the Puerta de la Justicia beneath it, was built by Sultan Yusuf I in 1348, a year clearly stated on its founding inscription. This impressive gateway quickly became the principal entrance to the Alhambra and required constant oversight. After the conquest of Granada in 1492, the Catholic Monarchs installed a gate warden in the tower, establishing his residence here to maintain strict control over visitors and activities inside the fortress.

Throughout the early modern period, the tower continued to house guards of the Nasrid compound, many of whom were elderly soldiers. Romantic travellers of the 19th century left colourful descriptions of these dozing guardians. Gautier wrote in 1840 that the soldiers “take a nap” in the tower, and Murray later noted that at night it was difficult to wake them to enter the Alhambra.

At the dawn of the 20th century, the tower became a centre of administrative activity for the Board of the Alhambra and Generalife. It soon developed into an early version of the Alhambra Library, holding part of the important legacy of the Duke of Loring and later donations by the Count of Romanones.

Things to See and Do in Torre de la Justicia

Inside the Torre de la Justicia, visitors can explore its restored rooms, now arranged as an exhibition space with panels, drawings, and historical documents about the gate's evolution. Books from the Jorge Loring collection illustrate how scholarship and heritage conservation shaped the Alhambra in modern times. This exhibition provides an excellent overview of the gate's military, administrative, and cultural roles.

Architecturally, the tower is built on a rectangular plan with two floors and a terrace. The exterior façade features the famous pointed horseshoe arch framed by an alfiz, leading into an open courtyard area that once served as a defensive trap before a second, smaller arch. Above this interior arch sits the founding plaque. Although the original stucco and battlements no longer survive, historical engravings suggest a richly decorated tower silhouetted against the sky.

The tower also hosts cultural activities. Its interior space, known as the Caja de Música or Music Box, is used for small arts and music events, adding a contemporary creative dimension to this historic structure.

How to Get to Torre de la Justicia

The Torre de la Justicia is located just opposite the south side of the Palacio de Carlos V, near the taxi rank and a cannon positioned at the corner. Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport is the nearest air gateway for reaching the city. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.
Granada Railway Station offers regular train connections from cities including Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If travelling by car, follow the Ronda Sur to reach the Alhambra’s designated parking areas before walking to the tower’s entrance. 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 Torre de la Justicia

• Suggested tips: Take time to explore the exhibition, as it provides excellent context for understanding the gate’s significance.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter moments and softer lighting on the exterior arch.
• Entrance fee: Free
• Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. From 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  CAPACITY: Maximum 30 people.
  
  READING POINT AND "MUSIC BOX"
  Every Saturday. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
• Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/en/discover/things-to-do-in-alhambra/tower-of-justice
• How long to spend: 20–40 minutes exploring the tower and exhibition.
• Accessibility: Some steps and narrow passages may limit access for visitors with mobility difficulties.
• Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are located nearby within the Alhambra.
• Photography tip: Capture the horseshoe arch from the outside to frame the inner courtyard beautifully.
• Guided tours: Many Alhambra tours include explanations of the Puerta de la Justicia, though access to the tower may depend on schedules.
• Nearby food options: Cafés close to the Palacio de Carlos V and restaurants in the nearby Albaicín.

Where to Stay close to Torre de la Justicia

Staying close to the Alhambra gives you the advantage of early access and peaceful evenings near the complex. The atmospheric Parador de Granada offers historical surroundings inside the monument. For a charming traditional stay, Hotel America is set along one of the main pathways within the complex. A modern alternative just outside the entrance is Eurostars Washington Irving, known for comfort and convenience.

Is Torre de la Justicia Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Torre de la Justicia is absolutely worth visiting. It combines centuries of military, administrative, and cultural history, all housed within one of the most iconic gateways of the Alhambra. With its newly restored exhibition spaces and architectural beauty, it offers insight that enriches any visit to the monument and deepens appreciation for the Alhambra's layered past.

FAQs for Visiting Torre de la Justicia

What can you see inside the tower?
You can explore exhibition rooms with plans, documents, drawings, and books related to the Puerta de la Justicia and the history of the Alhambra.

Why is it called Bab Al-Sharía in Moorish times?
It was its Arabic name, meaning Gate of Justice, reflecting its role as a symbolic and administrative entry point.

How do I find the entrance?
It is located opposite the south side of the Palacio de Carlos V, near the taxi rank and a historic cannon.

Nearby Attractions to Torre de la Justicia

• Puerta de la Justicia: The iconic outer gate crowned by the tower itself.
• Palacio de Carlos V: A monumental Renaissance palace just steps away.
• Torre de los Picos: A striking defensive tower protected by later bastions.
• Alcazaba: The oldest military area of the Alhambra with panoramic views.
• Generalife Gardens: Elegant landscaped terraces located above the palace complex.

The Torre de la Justicia appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

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