Granada is one of the most picturesque cities in southern Spain, where history literally oozes from every corner. Situated at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range (at an altitude of approximately 680 meters), at the confluence of the Genil and Darro rivers, the city's history spans over two and a half millennia. As early as the 5th century BC, an Iberian settlement known as Iliberra arose here. The city later survived Roman and Visigothic rule. In 711, it was conquered by the Moors, and it became known as Ilbira.

Granada's main calling card is the Alhambra palace complex, an outstanding example of Moorish architecture. The grounds include palaces (such as the Palace of the Lions), gardens, fountains, and the Alcazaba fortress. In 1984, the Alhambra, along with the Albaicín district, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.