Carmen de los Mártires

Overview

The Carmen de los Mártires is a romantic 19th-century garden estate on the southern slope of the Alhambra hill. Its terraces, grottoes, ponds, and resident peacocks make it one of Granada's most enchanting green spaces.

Highlights

• Peacocks and Swans: Free-roaming birds add life to the French-style formal gardens.
• Romantic Grottos: Artificial caves and cascades in the English landscape garden section.
• Sierra Nevada Views: The upper terraces offer panoramic views toward the mountains.

History

The site takes its name from a dungeon where Christian captives were held during the Nasrid period. After 1492, a Carmelite convent was founded here (Saint John of the Cross lived on the site). The current gardens were designed in the 19th century by the Calderón family.

Visitor Tips

• Free Entry: One of the best free experiences in Granada.
• Combine with Alhambra: A 5-minute walk from the Alhambra entrance.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.