Beneath the Alhambra: An Exclusive Walk Through Prisons, Towers and the Mauror

GRANADA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Beneath the Alhambra: An Exclusive Walk Through Prisons, Towers and the Mauror

A 3-hour, exclusive Granada Secreta guided tour that traces the Alhambra's forgotten prison places — from Torres Bermejas to the Carmen de los Mártires and, when possible, the city's visitable undergrounds.

Beneath the Alhambra: An Exclusive Walk Through Prisons, Towers and the Mauror.

Duration
3h
Location
Granada
Operator
Granada Secreta
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on a unique journey through Granada's hidden history with an exclusive tour of the Alhambra's prisons and the Mauror hill. This guided route uncovers the presidio islámico where Christian captives lived, the enigmatic Torres Bermejas, the poignantly named Carmen de los Mártires, and — when available — the city's mysterious underground spaces.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE HISTORY

Torres Bermejas — Ancient Watch and Enclosure

Explore Torres Bermejas, described among the tour's most ancient and enigmatic enclaves, long tied to roles of vigilance and confinement within the Alhambra complex.

THE REMEMBRANCE

Carmen de los Mártires — Memory Carved in Place

Visit the Carmen de los Mártires, a site whose name and history are intertwined with pain, memory and reclusion — a quieter, reflective counterpoint on the tour.

THE UNDERGROUND

Subterráneos — Symbolism and Mystery Below the City

When available, the route includes Granada's only visitor-accessible subterráneos — an atmospheric space heavy with symbolism and the mysteries of the city's subterranean past.

What the day feels like

What the experience feels like

Over three hours the guide from Granada Secreta pieces together an uncommon narrative of confinement and resistance, moving from towers and hilltop carmenes to the former presidio and, if the itinerary allows, the underground passages that hold some of the Alhambra's most secret histories.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this tour suits — and who should check with the operator before booking.

1
History BuffsAn excellent match for travelers wanting a focused, archival view of the Alhambra's penal history and the lives of captives within the presidio.
2
Urban ExplorersSuited to visitors seeking off-the-beaten-path angles on Granada's most famous monument, including lesser-known towers, carmenes and, sometimes, underground spaces.
3
Curious LocalsA fit for residents who want a deeper, guided reading of familiar places and the hidden stories beneath them.
4
Those Needing Clarification on AccessProspective participants with mobility concerns or specific accessibility needs should check operator guidance and any restrictions before booking.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

The guided experience is scheduled as a 3-hour tour; check Granada Secreta for specific departure times and seasonal availability.

Meeting Point

Groups assemble at the Quiosco de prensa Chalo (Plaza Nueva), 71 prior to departure; confirm exact meet time with the operator.

What to Bring

Consult the operator's gear guidance for the day's recommendations and any site-specific requirements.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Visita guiada Prisiones y Cautivos de la Alhambra?

The tour lasts 3 hours.

Where is the meeting point for the tour?

Meeting location is the Quiosco de prensa Chalo (Plaza Nueva), 71.

Who operates this guided visit?

The tour is offered exclusively by Granada Secreta.

Will the tour include the underground areas of Granada?

Visits to the city's subterráneos are included when available; their inclusion is subject to availability on the day of the tour.

What principal sites does the route cover?

Key stops include Torres Bermejas, the Alhambra's prison/presidio areas, and the Carmen de los Mártires, with an optional stop at the visitable subterráneos when available.