Alhambra, Spain

The Alhambra is a Moorish palace and fortress complex begun in 889 AD, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. Receiving 2.7 million visitors per year, its Nasrid Palaces contain some of the finest Islamic architecture in the world, featuring intricate stucco work, serene courtyard gardens, and exquisite tile mosaics. Unlike Bran Castle's 600,000 visitors, the Alhambra draws a massive crowd, reflecting its status as Spain's top historic attraction. The complex's strategic hilltop location in Granada offers panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada, while its water systems, designed 1,100 years ago, still function today. For any visitor interested in medieval artistry, the Alhambra's architectural detail is a profound experience that rivals the great cathedrals of Europe.