During approximately 711 AD, Muslims came to Spain to spread their religion. There, they built the Alhambra, which is in the style of Moorish architecture.

Created originally for military purposes, Alhambra was a fortress, a palace and a small city. During this time, most of Spain was under the control of the Moors. The fortress had been in existence since the 9th century but there is no reference of Alhambra being a place of residence for kings until the 13th century. The Nastrid Emirs, starting in 1238 built Alhambra.
The founder of the dynasty, Mohammed Al Ahmar, began the restoration of the old fortress. Some say that the fortress is named after him (Ahmar is red in Arabic.) One of Ahmar's most important contributions was the addition of running water in the fortress.

The construction of the palaces dates back to the fourteenth century and is the work of two great kings: Yusuf I and Mohammed V. Yusuf I constructed the Chamber of Comares, Gate of Justice, The Baths and some towers. His son Mohammed V completed the renovation of the palaces with the chamber of lions, as well as other rooms and fortifications.
The Christians came back to claim the lands and were successful in doing so. The Alhambra became a Christian court in 1492. The two catholic monarchs: Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile conquered the city of Granada.These two Monarchs built new structures and destroyed various Moorish structures and furniture. In some areas the Alhambra was built in the Renaissance style of the period. The Catholics built a church, Franciscan monastery and military garrisons.

Emperor Charles V, spent several months in Granada and made some alternations to the interior buildings.

During the 18th century and part of the 19th, Alhambra was neglected. Dung heaps and taverns occupied several areas of the palace. Alhambra became a place for thieves and beggars.
From 1808 to 1812, Alhambra was used for barracks. It was again used for military purposes. Many towers were mined and destroyed. This neglect continued until the 1870, when Alhambra was declared a national monument.

Isabella of Castile

Ferdinand of Aragon

Emperor Charles V