The Alhambra: Some Exterior Views and Towers

This walled fortress and palace is located strategically on the hill of La Sabica (or Sabîka) and dominates the city below. Its heavily fortified walls have 23 towers and four gates. Views of the Alhambra from the Generalife The large, broad tower to the right is the Comares Tower; the classical building, center top of the far right image, is the Palace of Charles V.
The Tower of the Points/Spikes (Torre de los Picos) The tower defends the entrance to the Alhambra through the Puerta del Arrabal (Gate of the Outskirts/ Gate of the Poor Quarter) which is at the foot of this tower. Note to the right the terrace and portico of the Partal as well as the large Comares Tower (Torre de Comares) behind it. For other views of this tower, about 45 meters high and the tallest in the complex, see the Court of the Myrtles.
		This 13th-15th century tower received this name because its merlons end in pyramids. Its strategic location defends one of the outer walkways of the Alhambra.
The Tower of the Princesses (Torre de las Infantas) Located on the eastern ramparts, this two-story tower was actually a small palace with several rooms.
		The Ladies Tower (Torre de las Damas) This structure, known by different names, was originally called the Partal, which translates as portico--the five arches form a porch.
The Puerta de la Rauda This simple door is in the Rauda Tower (Torre de la Rauda) located behind the Palace of the Lions. It is thought that the Rauda must have been the entrance to the original palace. Only the lower part of its walls remains.

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