Heading west from Iran, the Alhambra is an example of a
Persian garden style adapted by the Moors in Spain (the Arabs occupied Spain
from 710 – 1492). Alhambra (“the red one”) was constructed as a palace and
fortress complex built on top of the hill of the Assabica near the city of
Granada. Construction started in the mid-tenth century, and continued in
multiple construction phases over the next several hundred years. Water was brought in to the complex via a carved stone aqueduct system. Alhambra is another
UNESCO World Heritage site.
Look for glimpses of Persian garden elements (click X to view the advertising later):
Look for glimpses of Persian garden elements (click X to view the advertising later):
According to Christopher Thacker, author of Thacker’s The History of Gardens, The Alhambra
retains most Moorish characteristics, but has been overlaid with later European
features. The charbagh (or garden) is retained with a fountain in the center, four channels
of water, and four rectangular quadrants. The four planting areas were
originally two feet lower than they are today. The effect would have been that
the flower tops would have been at the same level of the path – similar to a
floral boarder on a beautiful Persian carpet.
Sometimes when visiting the Spanish missions in California, I am struck with how much
the central fountain and courtyard, the intricate tile work, and the gardens remind
me of these Persian garden elements. It is interesting to think of the history
that brought the Persian garden style to the missions of California.
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