Day 8: Granada

Today was a long and busy day. We walked up to the Alhambra and figured out where everything was. There was water running everywhere down the hills.

We meet with Gayle for a tour of some tapas bars around the city centre.  We sampled a variety of dishes, all of which were very enjoyable.  But, the best part was being able to ask questions about Spain and Semana Santa.

Then we walked back up the hill to the Alhambra. It once had ten thousand inhabitants including the sultan. Now it has spectacular gardens, lots of water features and intricate decorations.

The first sections was called general life and was a summer retreat for the sultan. Many beautiful water features are present and the sound of running water is everywhere.

Then we went to the Nasrid Palaces.  Which has stunning decorations on most surfaces including the ceilings and marble and tile floors.

The Lion fountain was Lila's favorite.

Then we went into the town centre and found three more Semana Santa processions.  

The Virgin Mary statues that are carried are amazing, in their decoration and size.  All have been covered in silver, flowers and candles.  They are kept in their churches all year but no one can touch them.  The day of the procession is the only day people are allowed to touch them. If there is any chance of rain, the processions are cancelled and no one gets to touch them that year.  We learned today that the procressions cost about 15000 euros each and if it might rain that money is wasted.