The introduction of Gothic architecture in Granada and Almería marked a significant shift in the architectural landscape of these regions. Following the conquest of Granada in 1492, Ferdinand and Isabella initiated a comprehensive construction programme that brought Gothic and Renaissance styles to the forefront. In Granada, the late Gothic period, also known as Isabelline Gothic, is exemplified by the Royal Chapel and the Churches of San Cristobal and San Matias. This style, characterised by its intricate rib vaulting and sparse decoration, was a symbol of the new Christian power.
In Almería, the influence of Gothic architecture can be seen in the reformation of the Cathedral by Juan de Orea in the mid-16th century. The region also boasts other notable Gothic structures, such as the late Gothic Colegiata in Baza and the parish church in Huéscar. These buildings reflect the transition from Gothic to Renaissance styles, showcasing the rich architectural heritage of the Kingdom of Granada and Almería.
In Granada, the best examples of late Gothic are the Royal Chapel and Churches of San Cristobal and San Matias. Mudejar is best seen in the churches of San Jose, Santa Ana, San Pedro and San Pablo, San Nicolas, San Miguel Bajo, San Idelfonso and San Bartolome with their characteristic towers. The most outstanding convents are those of Santa Isabel la Real, La Merced and Santa Catalina de Zafra. Remarkable civilian buildings maintain late Gothic or Mudejar features - façades, wooden Muslim ceilings and rib vaulting; some examples are the Hospital Real, Hospital de San Juan de Dios, La Lonja, La Madraza, the Curia (old University) and the Chancilleria. There are Gothic remains in the palace of El Marques de Casa Blanca, and there are several Mudejar houses, such as those in Santiago street nos. 5 and 9, San Juan de los Reyes 84, Carmen (typical hillside terraced house of Granada) de Aben Humeya and Casa de Castril.
Granada is a city rich in Gothic and Mudejar architecture. Here are some must-visit places:
An itinerary around the area surrounding Granada - Vegas del Genil - leads us to the Mudejar parishes of Huetor Santillan, Viznar, Alfacar, Ouliana, Albolote, Atarfe, Pinos Puente, Macarena, Churriana, Cullar Vega, Armilla, Alhedin, Los Ogijares, La Zubia, Huetor Vega, Monachil, Pinos Genil, Dudar and Quentar.
Vegas del Genil is a region rich in Mudejar architecture and historical landmarks. Here are some must-visit places:
Towards Los Montes, there are the parish churches of Guadahortuna and Gobernador, and also Deifontes, Colomera, Piñar and Moreda.
Los Montes is a region rich in Gothic architecture and historical landmarks. Here are some must-visit places:
Another itinerary might include Loja, an example of Mudejar town planning, and Alhama de Granada, where the Hospital de la Reina is worth seeing, and the parish churches in:
A very interesting itinerary to see Mudejar of Granada would begin in the valley of Lecrín, to see the parish churches of:
Continue towards the coast through Lenteji and Lujar, or to the Alpujarra, to visit the parish churches of:
If the Alpujarra is chosen, the tour could continue through the valley of Andarax in the province of Almeria, to take in:
Another fundamental tour is northwards towards the archbishopric of Guadix Baza. In Guadix, the Mudejar churches of Santiago and San Francisco are outstanding; nearby the parish churches of:
The collegiate church is worth seeing in Baza, and there are also parish churches in:
To the North, Huescar could end the itinerary, with its convent of Santo Domingo.
From Guadix, take the road to Almeria, to stop at:
From Guadix, take the road to Almeria, to stop at: