This is one of the emperor's projects for the city of Granada. The choice of the Alhambra for its construction shows the king's awareness of the beauty of the Arab palaces and his interest in preserving them for posterity.

The construction of the palace, which was started in 1533, was abandoned years later, as the kings had lost interest and the Court was already fully established in Madrid.

It was at the end of the twentieth century when the building's roofing was put in place and the museums were fitted out inside, the Fine Arts Museum on the top floor and the Alhambra Museum on the ground floor.

The building also houses temporary exhibitions, as well as some of the concerts of the Granada Music and Dance Festival in the courtyard.

In a Renaissance style, the palace represents the introduction of Italian classicism in Spanish civil architecture. Designed by Pedro Machuca, the concept of the project is extremely original, above all due to the addition of the round porticoed courtyard in the external square block and the harmonious distribution of the strengths. The facades are imposing and the main one, on the west face, is the most adorned and rich.

Useful information

No ticket is necessary to visit the Charles V Palace, as it is permanently open at the same time as the Alhambra and it is free.
As far as the museums are concerned, the Fine Arts one is free for citizens of the UE on presentation of a passport, Identity Card, etc. The price for rest is €1.50.
The Alhambra Museum is free for all visitors.