Torre de la Sultana, Granada

Tower in Granada

Torre De La Sultana 4
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Diego Delso

The Torre de la Sultana is one of the quieter but most atmospheric towers within the Alhambra Complex, standing between the military world of the Alcazaba and the tranquil greenery of the Jardín de los Adarves. With its elongated square shape, overhanging position, and layered construction history, it offers a fascinating look at how defensive architecture evolved across the Almohad and Nasrid periods. It is one of the things to do in Granada for travelers who enjoy seeking out lesser-known corners of the Alhambra.

Although the tower is not normally accessible to visitors, you can see it clearly from the Plaza de las Armas or from the walkway that connects the Torre del Homenaje with the Torre de las Armas. Its position makes it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Granada that explores the Alcazaba's defensive system and its relationship with the surrounding gardens.

History and Significance of Torre de la Sultana

The Torre de la Sultana dates back to the Almohad period, predating much of the Nasrid construction that later defined the Alhambra. Its structure reveals multiple phases of reconstruction and repair, visible in the differing brick types and masonry styles used throughout the tower. This layering gives the tower a unique textured appearance and offers tangible evidence of centuries of adaptation.

The tower consists of two interior rooms that once connected the barbican walkway with the Plaza de las Armas. Its terrace overlooked both the military centre of the Alcazaba and the lush Jardín de los Adarves. This dual outlook made the tower useful for both defensive surveillance and internal communication between sections of the fortress. This spot is one of the best places to see in the Alcazaba if you want to appreciate how the Alhambra's military landscape once functioned.

The name “Torre de la Sultana” is more poetic than historical, and although no direct association with a sultana is documented, the tower's position between palace and fortress gives it an evocative presence within the Alhambra's narrative.

Things to See and Do in Torre de la Sultana

While visitors cannot enter the Torre de la Sultana, its exterior still offers much to explore. From the Plaza de las Armas, you can admire the tower's elongated square footprint, its alignment with the barbican, and the way it overhangs the southern slope toward the gardens. These features reflect its dual role as both a defensive lookout and a connector between interior walkways.

From the upper walkway that runs between the Torre del Homenaje and the Torre de las Armas, you can enjoy a closer side perspective of the tower. Its southern façade is partially hidden by the trees of the Jardín de los Adarves, adding a sense of secrecy to the structure. Observing the different materials and brick patterns, visitors can trace the many reconstructions that have taken place since the Almohad era.

For those interested in military architecture, the tower provides valuable insight into how the Alcazaba’s defenses were arranged and how its structures linked into the broader network of terraces, gardens, and inner passages.

How to Get to Torre de la Sultana

The Torre de la Sultana is located at the southwest end of the Plaza de las Armas within the Alcazaba. Travelers arriving from abroad will usually fly into Granada Airport, which offers easy connections into the city. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada has strong rail connections with major Spanish cities, making arrival by train a convenient option for many visitors. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, the Alhambra's designated parking areas near the main entrance provide straightforward access before walking across the Alcazaba. 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 Sultana

  • Suggested tips: Walk both the Plaza de las Armas and the upper rampart path to appreciate how the tower links the fortress's internal routes.
  • Best time to visit: Afternoon light provides a warm glow on the tower’s varied brickwork.
  • Entrance fee: The Torre de la Sultana 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 Torre de la Sultana see Alhambra Opening Times.
    Access is normally restricted unless to building forms part of the Space of the Month program.
  • Official website:
  • How long to spend: Around 5–10 minutes as part of exploring the Plaza de las Armas and nearby towers.
  • Accessibility: Some surrounding walkways involve steps and uneven surfaces.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and cafés are available elsewhere within the Alhambra grounds.
  • Photography tip: Capture the tower from the northwest corner of the Plaza de las Armas for its best profile.
  • Guided tours: Many guided routes through the Alcazaba point out the tower while explaining its Almohad origins.
  • Nearby food options: On-site cafés and restaurants located downhill toward Granada.

Where to Stay close to Torre de la Sultana

To stay close to the Alhambra and enjoy easy access to the Alcazaba, consider the beautifully historic Parador de Granada, offering an unmatched setting within the complex. A traditional and cosy option nearby is Hotel América, perfect for exploring on foot. For a more modern stay just outside the entrance, Eurostars Washington Irving provides contemporary comfort inspired by the Alhambra’s literary legacy.

Is Torre de la Sultana Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Torre de la Sultana is worth visiting, especially for travelers who enjoy uncovering the quieter, more atmospheric corners of the Alhambra. While you cannot enter the tower, its blended military and garden-facing perspectives, Almohad origins, and position within the Alcazaba's defensive network make it an interesting and rewarding feature to observe.

FAQs for Visiting Torre de la Sultana

Can you go inside the Torre de la Sultana?
No, the interior is not accessible to visitors, but it can be viewed from multiple surrounding walkways.

What period does the tower date from?
It was built during the Almohad period and later modified under the Nasrids.

What does the tower overlook?
It overlooks both the Alcazaba's military quarter and the Jardín de los Adarves.

Why is it called the Torre de la Sultana?
The name is traditional rather than historical, though its position between palace and fortress gives it an evocative identity.

How long should I spend here?
Around 5–10 minutes, often combined with visits to nearby towers.

Nearby Attractions to Torre de la Sultana

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

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Visiting Torre de la Sultana

Hours:

For opening times of the Torre de la Sultana see Alhambra Opening Times.

Access is normally restricted unless to building forms part of the Space of the Month program.

Price:

The Torre de la Sultana is part of the Alhambra Complex and access it you need to purchase Alhambra Tickets or a Alhambra Guided Tour.

Granada: 2 km

Nearby Attractions

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