“Narciso Tomé, Master Architect of this “Santa Catedral Primada” (Holy Prime Cathedral*), drew, sculpted and also painted by himself Continue reading “The Holy Prime Cathedral*”
Category: Spain
The “Bañuelo” of Granada
We finally got to see what had us very curious, the famous Arab baths and a little of their history. Since the late XIX century, the Nogal Baths are known simply as the “Bañuelo”, a diminutive used since it is smaller in size than other royal baths in the Alhambra.
The “Bañuelo” of Granada is one of the oldest, most important and most completely conserved in Spain. It is also considered as one of the oldest Moorish works in Granada. It is rectangular in shape with concrete walls with the different halls being covered by brick vaults with skylights in octagonal and star shape, thus providing lighting. We confirmed that these were in fact skylights.
During the reign of the Catholic Kings, the Arab or Moorish baths were considered to be brothels, therefore it is amazing that this “Bañuelo” was conserved so well.
Scholars and experts have been unable to agree on when this “Bañuelo” was actually built. Yet, everything seems to point towards the end of the Zirid Dyanasty, somewhere between the XI and XII centuries. 
It has a privileged location on a important street in a highly populated area and near the Bab al-Bunud gateway, known as the Gate of Banners.
The “Bañuelo” of Granada was declared a National Monument in 1918 and the architect Torres Balbás was in charge of its restoration.
When in Granada, visiting the “Bañuelo” should be on your bucketlist. A great experience.
The “Bañuelo” is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. It is closed on Mondays, Sundays and holidays.
Address: Carrera del Darro 31, Granada
Telephone: 958 229 738
Entry price: €2,00
The Patio of the “Doncellas”
It is hard to believe that what we now-a-day know as the “Patio de las Doncellas” in the “Real Alcázar ” of Seville was in part, once buried beneath a marble pavement. The structure’s bedding and a pond were uncovered as an archaeological finding in 2002. As a result of this, the structure of this old Moorish garden was revealed, making it a very relevant event for the archaeological history of medieval Spain. Continue reading “The Patio of the “Doncellas””
Fountains in Cordoba
As we strolled back to the Bus terminal in Cordoba along side the ” Avenida de la Libertad”, we cam across a series of fabulous and modern fountains. It sure must be refreshing during the summer. Continue reading “Fountains in Cordoba”
Statue of the Arts
Shown is one of the statues we find at the Alfonso XII Monument in the “Buen Retiro” Park in Madrid. Created by the sculptor, Joaquín Bilbao, the Statue of the Arts is represented the figure of a woman seated over the chapiter, holding in her right hand a small statue of Victoria de Samotracia and in her left hand a painter’s palette. These elements symbolize Architecture, Sculpture and Painting. Continue reading “Statue of the Arts”
The Almodóvar Gate, Córdoba
The city of Córdoba, Spain, is known as the City of the Seven Gates, in reference to the seven entry points of the walled city. The Almodóvar Gate is current the best conserved of all those existing in Córdoba. It is found close to the “Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos” and with easy access from the “Cairuán” Street. It is located in a very centric part of the city just a few steps from the Red Cross Hospital and the “Judíos” Street, one of the most popular street within the Jewish quarters. Continue reading “The Almodóvar Gate, Córdoba”
Railroad Station of Toledo
Inaugurated in 1919, Toledo’s Railroad Station was declared as a Place of Cultural Interes; in the category of monuments on November 21, 1991. This is the work of Architect Narciso Clavería and his neo-Moorish style. Bricks, stone, iron and cement was used in its construction. In 2005 it was restored with the advent of the high speed trains. It is located to the east of the city. Continue reading “Railroad Station of Toledo”
Altarpiece of the Cathedral of Seville
The art historian, José Gestoso y Pérez has expressed that ” The Spirit pales when considering the presumptuous prodigious material work and inventiveness which truly represents the world of art, its colossal proportions, the attention and dedication to its carvings, the infinite enriched details which escape the most penetrating eye and the exquisite taste in this work produces an utter awe.” Continue reading “Altarpiece of the Cathedral of Seville”
Guild of Silk – Écija
The House of the Guild of Silk dates back to the XVIII century originally built in the Baroque style. In its facade we can observe the exterior open arches and baseboards ornamented with paintings “al fresco” which were recently restored. This building was erected primarily the main location for trade for the territory, nationally and even foreign. The silk and linen industry was a most prosperous one for the city of Écija.
“El Partal”
During our visit to the Alhambra we came across “El Partal”. This term is derived from from the Arab word “bartal” which references a portal, this being the highlighted architectural element of this structure. We can view how the portal of five arches is reflected in the pond before it. “El Partal” is on the walls of this citadel and is the oldest palace of those conserved within the Alhambra.