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Coming into Granada we used the phone GPS to guide us, but apparently it doesn't recognize the restricted zones in these old cities! We accidentally turned down the wrong way but coincidentally a guy pulled up beside on a motorbike, asked us where we were trying to go, and said "no problem, follow me" and he proceeded to guide us up, around, and through crazy narrow winding streets to within a block of our hotel. Of course then he walks over and asks for 25 euro! Ack. We gave him 5, and he was not happy with us. But on we go.
That evening we're hungry so Greg ventures out for food. Comes back with some snacks, but also with the first impression of the Muslim quarter where we're staying. The harsher tones, shouting, edgier Spanish accents all remind us of the Arab influence here. It's recognizable still today.
One thing thats struck me so much about this area of the world is that you can see where and how world history played out. We've been in rooms where Magellan planned his explorations, and stood beside Christopher Columbus' tomb. You can visit Christian cathedrals that have been built on top of mosques that had been there for hundreds of years, and see the influence of the different cultures and religions.
In Granada, Worlds collide... The Muslim quarter beside the gypsies living in cave houses in the Acromonte, a few blocks from the cathedral, with the modern skyline off in the distance. And of course the famed Alhambra looking over it all. That building is a wonder.. So many people from all over the world coming to visit it that they have to limit tickets each day. I tried for a couple of days, even walking a couple km one early morning to catch a ticket office opening. No luck. Then someone gives me the tip... Tickets are cancelled last minute so keep checking ticket master the afternoon before and you may luck out. Voila! Got our tickets. So glad. We spent most of the day exploring the intricate palace rooms and gardens and imagining a way of life so different than ours.
The Arab influence is still very alive and well in Granada. We're staying in the area called The Muslim Quarter. Even though we hear the locals speaking Spanish, it's got a more coarse tone and accent to it. Lots of stores with goods from India, Turkey, and other countries that are so close here.
The adventure continues.
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