Space of April 2012: Torre de los Picos

When we speak of a tower generally we think of a exclusively military or defensive function. Nevertheless, the history of the architecture is full of important examples of tower-palaces. The Torre de los Picos is part of this type since - in addition to its obvious defensive function - the few remnants of ornamentation that we find in its interior, fundamentally plasterwork and paintings reveal its use as a dwelling.

The towers near to the Torre de los Picos, such as the Torre de la Cautiva (Captive´s Tower) or Torre de las Infantas (Infants’ Tower), stand out for combining the same defensive character in their exterior with that of living space in the interior. However, the Torre de los Picos, in addition to these characteristics, stands out by its function in the urban plan of the Alhambra. It defends one of the principal gates of access into the compound: the Puerta del Arrabal, which was open to the slope known as Cuesta de los Chinos, which connects the compound of the Alhambra with the quarter of the Albaicin.

On the other hand, it also allowed the access to the Generalife from the interior of the fortress, since the towers Cautiva and Infantas immediately connect with the ravine Barranco del Rey Chico and from there to the Torre del Agua (Water Tower), near to which was the former access to the Generalife.

Denomination: Torre de los Picos (Tower of the Pointed Embattlements)

Dated from: Built in times of Jusuf I (1333-1354)

Highlights: The Torre de los Picos (Tower of the Pointed Embattlements) is one of those of major size in top view elevation along with the Torre de Comares (Comares Tower). Inside it is presents three units, standing out its vaults: cloister vault in the first floor and with four ribs in the second one.

Opening time: From 8:30 to 20 hours. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Entrance: with the general admission ticket for the Monumental Complex of the Alhambra

Capacity: maximum 30 persons simultaneously

Source: Patronato de la Alhambra