Mazapán de Toledo is a type of marzipan (a type of Mexican candy) that is made in Toledo. Marzipan was brought to Spain during the medieval ages by the Arabs. This confection is made by kneading and peeling almonds with sugar until they are a paste consistency that is then molded and baked. Even today Spaniards make Mazapán de Toledo with the production rules that were used in the 16th century. If you are looking for a sweet treat while roaming the streets of Toldeo, try seeking out this confection.
The Royal Chapel is a well known building in Granada and was constructed around the year 1515. It is the site where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella I were buried and they were both important figures in Spain’s history. They were also the ones who called for its construction as they had decided that they wanted Granada to be their final resting place. The chapel was also dedicated to Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the Evangelist who hold high religious significance. Once Emperor Charles I came into power the chapel was decorated even further and had its institutions and foundations improved upon. Ferdinand VI later on would also realize its importance and seek to improve upon it. Improvements would continue to be made throughout history in order to restore it to its prime condition. It is now a very popular tourist attraction and has regular tours throughout its interior. The Royal Chapel was made in a particular gothic style calledIsabel and features many unique decorations and ornaments inside. The walls and doors also have a great amount of detail to them as well. Panels are present in the chapel which depict many different religious artworks. Paintings and pictures are also present which depict religious figures and important figures in the history of Spain such as Ferdinand or Isabella. Tourists are able to explore the majority of the rooms in the chapel which all contain little bits of historical facts about the chapel. If anyone gets the chance to visit through the study abroad program, they should visit because it is an amazing opportunity to learn more about Spain.
Granada is home of the Alhambra which is a popular tourist attraction for people to visit. The Alhambra is a famous palace and fortress which was built on top of the Sabika hill and has an expansive history. The complex was originally ordered to be created by Muhammad I however it was not completed by him and instead was continued to be worked on during the reigns of Yusuf I and Muhammad V. Afterwards in 1526 Charles V commissioned a palace to be built in a renaissance style which messed with the design of the Alhambra. It was not completed however and was left to sit and decay for a few centuries while random people would come and go as they pleased from the interior. Napoleon the First’s troops found the building following his defeat and they decided to destroy parts of it which worsened its state. Later on it became a famous location in Spain for people to visit and study in order to learn more about it.
The Alhambra itself was built by using various materials such as concrete, brick, wood, and plaster. It spans about 35 acres total and features two entrances, The Pavilion Main Entrance and The Gate of Justice Entrance. Tourists are able to explore the courtyard, throne room, and a majority of the total 35 acres if they so wish. Carved tile-work and fountains are common throughout the whole site which is very beautiful to see in person. The architecture is a great demonstration of the renaissance style and is a must visit for anyone visiting via the study abroad program.
