Les secrets de l'Alhambra nasride

Evocation of the genius of the Fountain of the Lions, the poetry of water, the geometric complexities of the decoration, the refinement of the epigraphy that gives voice to the palace, the splendour of the sultan's festivities, the sensuality of the gardens, and the cultural exchanges despite constant military tensions… : this exhibition tells the story of the Nasrid Alhambra, sheds light on its splendour and reveals some of its mysteries. Walking tour of the future exhibition The beauty of the Alhambra may make one forget that it is first and foremost a fortress, surrounded by walls and towers and home to a garrison, and that the Nasrid emirate was in reality a state on borrowed time, threatened and nibbled away without respite by neighbouring states. Alongside a selection of weapons and pieces of armour and horse harness, the immersion will allow visitors to discover a hidden masterpiece, little known, of Arabic painting, showing the return of a victorious military expedition. The Fountain of the Lions, which gave the palace that houses it its current name, the most iconic piece of the Alhambra and a masterpiece of Nasrid art, was remodelled over the centuries that followed the Christian conquest. What did it look like during the reign of Muhammad V, who had it installed? Around a copy of the fountain, visitors will discover various scientific hypotheses about the meaning, form and functioning of the fountain. A major piece of the exhibition, it will also be an opportunity to address the importance of water for the entire palace complex, both aesthetically and for its essential role in the very life of the site.