History of Granada
Dating all the way back to 1500-2000 B.C., Granada has quite a long history. After the Romans conquered the entire Iberian Peninsula (what is today Spain and Portugal) and ruled for 3 centuries, the Visigoths took over the city. During their reign, the town began to increase in size and importance, Christianity began to gain popularity, and Granada became an important military station.
For 200 years, the Visigoths ruled over Granada, until the town was taken over by the Arabs. During this time the great fortress and palace of the Alhambra and Generalife was built, as well as other important monuments of the city. The Arabs ruled peacefully until 1492, when Ferdinand and Isabel conquered the city and converted it to Christianity.
Although originally the Muslim origins of the city were respected, in 1499 the bishop declared that all Muslims in Granada must be baptized and converted to Christianity. This caused great turmoil throughout the city, and many Muslims continued to practice in secret.
In 1531, the University of Granada was founded by Carlos V, becoming one of the most prominent universities in Spain. The University and the city have only gained popularity since, and today Granada serves as a tourist attraction, a hub for students studying at the University, and a great place to live or visit.
