by Fiona Flores Watson

5 Fascinating Facts about Granada

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CARMENS

Nothing to do with Bizetīs opera, these are hillside townhouses with private walled gardens. They originate from Moorish times, and the design of the carmen expresses the Islamic idea of the inner paradise, a reflection of heaven. The Albaicin in Granada has many carmens, with a few open to visitors, such as the Carmen de la Victoria, on Cuesta del Chapiz. Its delightful multi-level garden features pebble mosaic floors, shady grottos and lush flora: bamboo, palm, cypress and pine trees; rose, honeysuckle and wisteria; and granada (pomegranate). Itīs a university visitorsī residence, but ring the bell and theyīll let you wander round the peaceful, delightful gardens, with their Alhambra views.