Nestled on the southern slope of the Mauror Hill, within the grounds of the Alhambra, Carmen de los Mártires is one of the most fascinating gardens in Granada. Its seven hectares contain a mix of green spaces that have evolved over the centuries, from its origins as a place of confinement to becoming an exquisite landscaped environment.
This site, once known as Campo de Ahabul by the Arabs, was a place where Christian prisoners were held, earning it the name Corral de los Cautivos. It was here that Boabdil departed to hand over the keys of the city to the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. In honor of the Christians who suffered there, Queen Isabella I ordered the construction of a chapel, the first church in Granada. Although it disappeared over time, its legacy endures in the name and history of Carmen de los Mártires.
A Monastic Garden with a Legacy
In 1573, the site passed into the hands of the Carmelite Order, who built a convent with a garden where they cultivated aromatic and medicinal herbs such as thyme, lavender, and oregano. Among its most distinguished residents was St. John of the Cross, prior of the convent in the 16th century, who dedicated himself to both mystical poetry and the design of the gardens and construction of an aqueduct that still stands today.
One of the most striking features of this garden is an old cypress, brought from Mexico by Carmelite missionaries, where it is said that St. John of the Cross used to sit and write and meditate. Despite being struck by lightning two decades ago, the legendary tree still stands.
The Romantic Charm of the Lake
After the demolition of the convent in the 19th century due to the Mendizábal Decree, the estate passed into private hands. Its greatest splendor came in 1891 with the Belgian Hubert Merrsmans, who gave Carmen de los Mártires a romantic touch with fountains, sculptures, and labyrinthine paths. The pond was transformed into an idyllic black swan lake, with a small island at its center where madroño trees and Bussaco cedars still grow. The scene is dominated by a ruined tower that offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.
A Stroll Through European Gardens
In the 19th century, the Calderón family designed several gardens inspired by different European styles:
- The French garden, with a fountain of Neptune, where magnolias, oranges, and palms grow.
- The Spanish garden, with a pond surrounded by roses and linden trees, although most of it disappeared in the 1960s.
- The English garden, a palm forest with a fountain dedicated to Philip II, added in 1930 by Joaquín de Arteaga, Duke of Infantado.
A Nod to Nasrid Gardening
The Duke of Infantado, a great admirer of the Nasrid legacy, commissioned in 1944 the construction of a neo-Nasrid courtyard, inspired by the Patio de la Acequia of the Generalife. While it doesn’t match the grandeur of the original Arab courtyards, it’s a beautiful interpretation of Andalusian gardening, with jasmines climbing up the windows and a central rectangular pond.
A Treasure Rescued from Oblivion
Cataloged as a Cultural Heritage Site in 1943, Carmen de los Mártires passed into the hands of the City Council of Granada in 1958. However, it was almost lost in the 1970s when a hotel project threatened to demolish part of the estate. Thanks to public mobilization, construction work was halted, and this green oasis remains one of the most beautiful spots in the city.
A Viewing Point with Privileged Views
Besides its historical value, Carmen de los Mártires features a viewpoint offering spectacular views of Granada, the Vega, and the Sierra Nevada. Among its most romantic corners is a barred window from which you can gaze at the city, with an inscription that reads: “While sitting here, I imagined you by my side and gave you all the birds in the world.”
Where to Eat Near Carmen de los Mártires
If after your visit you want to enjoy the local cuisine, near Carmen de los Mártires you’ll find several restaurants that stand out for their charm and quality:
- Mirador de Morayma: A charming restaurant with spectacular views of the Alhambra, perfect for tasting traditional Andalusian dishes.
- Restaurante Carmen Aben Humeya: Located in a traditional carmen, offering signature cuisine with one of the best panoramic views of the city.
- El Huerto de Juan Ranas: Famous for its tapas and Granadian specialties, with a terrace offering a privileged view of the Alhambra.
- Ruta del Azafrán: Located at the foot of the Alhambra, it is known for its fusion of Mediterranean and Arab cuisine.
Your Luxury Escape in the Center of Granada
If you’re looking for an exclusive stay at a luxury hotel in the center of Granada, Seda Club is the perfect choice. Located just 1.5 km from Carmen de los Mártires, this elegant establishment offers a sophisticated experience with attention to detail and impeccable service, guaranteeing an unforgettable stay.
Additionally, if you want to enjoy a great brunch in Granada, the restaurant at Seda Club is an unbeatable option. With a refined and exquisite gastronomic proposal, this brunch becomes the perfect start to your day, offering you a culinary experience that blends local and international flavors in a sophisticated setting.
Book your stay at Seda Club now and experience something unique in the heart of Granada!
