Celebrating Granada’s 40-30 UNESCO Anniversary

In 2024, Granada proudly marks two significant milestones: the 40th anniversary of the Alhambra and Generalife being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, and the 30th anniversary of the Albaicín’s inclusion in this prestigious list in 1994. These dual anniversaries not only reaffirm Granada’s cultural and historical importance but also provide an opportunity to reflect on the city’s extraordinary legacy.

As part of the celebrations, a unique initiative has been launched: the "40-30 Commemorative Route", a curated journey through fourteen monuments that encapsulate the essence of these World Heritage sites. This route offers an unparalleled chance to explore Granada’s history, art, and architecture, guided by expert historians and enriched by the stories that define this city.

The 14 Monuments of the 40-30 Commemorative Route

1.Corral del Carbón 

   A 14th-century Nasrid-era caravanserai, this structure once served as a hub for merchants and travellers. It is the only such building preserved in its entirety in Spain.

2. El Bañuelo 

   These 11th-century Arab baths are among the best-preserved in Andalusia, showcasing the importance of hygiene and social life in Moorish culture.

3. El Maristán 

   A historic hospital built during the Nazrid period, this site offers a glimpse into the advanced medical practices of Islamic Granada.

4. Monasterio de la Concepción 

   This cloistered convent, established in the 16th century, is a serene example of Mudejar and Renaissance architectural styles.

5. Casa de Zafra 

   A 14th-century Nazrid house, now a cultural interpretation center, it provides insight into the domestic life of the Moorish elite.

6. Museo Arqueológico 

   Situated in the Casa de Castril, the arqueology museum houses artefacts spanning Granada’s long history, from prehistoric times to the Islamic period.

7. Casa Morisca 

   Located in the Albaicín, this well-preserved Moorish house exemplifies traditional Andalusian domestic architecture.

8. Peña la Platería 

   The oldest flamenco club in Spain, it celebrates Granada’s rich musical heritage and its enduring cultural traditions.

9. Carmen del Aljibe del Rey 

   This historic carmen, or villa, features a traditional garden and houses the Aljibe del Rey, an ancient cistern integral to Granada’s water supply system.

10. Palacio de Dar al-Horra 

    Once the residence of Aixa, the mother of Boabdil, the last Nazrid ruler of Granada, this palace is a masterpiece of Nazrid architecture.

11. Iglesia de Santa María de la Aurora y San Miguel 

    A striking example of Mudejar art, this church reflects the transition from Islamic to Christian rule in Granada.

12. Iglesia de San José 

    Built atop the ruins of a mosque, this church blends Moorish and Christian elements, symbolising Granada’s layered history.

13. Monasterio de San Bernardo 

    A tranquil convent known for its austere Baroque design and its role in preserving the Christian religious tradition in the Albaicín.

14. Las Torres Bermejas 

    Part of the Alhambra complex, these reddish towers date back to the 8th century and were integral to Granada’s defensive system.

How to Participate

To embark on this historic route, participants will need the official 40-30 Commemorative Passport, available exclusively through IDEAL’s Oferplan platform. Guided tours, led by historian Isaac Palomino, will take place on select Sundays offering a rich narrative experience.