The Alhambra

Description

The Alhambra, the 'red fort' on its rocky hill above Granada, with its fountained courts and gardens, and intricate decoration, has long been a byword for exotic and melancholy beauty. In a stimulating new book in the Wonders of the World series Robert Irwin, Arabist and novelist, examines its engrossing and often mysterious history. 'Entrancing.an excellent guide, full of fascinating characters and juicy anecdotes.Having been to the Alhambra many times, after reading this wonderful book I wished to go back - and see it for the first time.' - Independent

Robert Irwin lives in London. His fiction includes The Arabian Nightmare (1983) and Exquisite Corpse (1995). His many books and articles on Islamic subjects include The Arabian Nights: A Companion (1994) and Islamic Art (1997).

'A perfect introduction to the place and a first-rate account of its history' Mark Cocker, Guardian 'It is ... greatly to Robert Irwin's credit that he has written a book on the subject that is sensible, scholarly, astringent and witty. It is a fine addition to what promises to be an outstanding series on the world's great monuments.' Martin Gayford, Sunday Telegraph 'Entrancing ... an excellent guide, full of fascinating characters and juicy anecdotes ... Having been to the Alhambra many times, after reading this wonderful book I wished to go back - and see it for the first time.' Susha Guppy, Independent 'For those who know his work, it will confirm his genius and to others it will act as an excellent introduction' Martin Bright, Observer