Built by Yusuf I in 1349, the Madrasah of Granada was the first university of Al-Andalus
Located in the heart of Granada, in Oficios Street, is the only Nasrid building that remains in the heart of Granada. Until the 15th-century in the area was located the main Mosque of Granada and the main bazaar or Alcaicería.
There were relevant poets, philosophers, politicians and doctors among its students and teachers. For instance, Ibn al-Khatib or Ibn Zamrak, whose poems decorate the walls and fountains of the Alhambra.
The name Madrasah (Madraza in Spanish) comes from the Arabic word “Medersa“, meaning Koranic school or college.
The Catholic Monarch, Ferdinand II, gave the building to the Cabildo´s house (town hall) in 1500, after the content of its library was burnt by Cisneros in Plaza Bib-Rambla. It was, sadly, one of the biggest public bonfires across Europe. Since then it has been completely transformed to reach its current baroque appearance in 1722, demolishing the remains of the former Arab construction.
Until 1841 the Town Hall was located here – also known as the Old Town Hall – and finally, the state recovered it in 1943. Nowadays is part of the University of Granada and became the headquarters of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.
From its Nasrid splendorous past, we can see only the Oratory and its beautiful mihrab. Admire its amazing octagonal dome. However, it underwent extensive restoration work. The rests of its white marble facade are at the Archaeological Museum of Granada (temporarily closed).
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 07:00 pm.
Price
2,00 EUR