Irving finds it impossible to contemplate this once favourite abode of Oriental manners without feeling the early associations of Arabian romance, and almost expecting to see the white arm of some mysterious princess beckoning from the balcony or some dark eye sparkling through the lattice. Based on Irving's three-month stay in the palace in 1829, Tales of the Alhambra is presented as a series of traveloguish essays and historical sketches, although they really have more to do with his grand ideas about lost Moorish glories than any realities of medieval Andalusia. This was the book that cemented the Alhambra's romantic reputation in the minds of the Anglophone reading public. This edition of Washington Irving’s Tales of the Alhambra features a new, eye-catching cover design and is printed in a font that is both modern and readable, inviting contemporary audiences to divulge in the grandeur and beauty of a medieval fortress.

With delicate prose and intricate detail, Tales of the Alhambra appeal to readers’ sense of adventure, and allows its audience to explore the wonders of Granada, Spain alongside Washington Irving. Upon its original publication in 1832, Washington Irving’s Tales of the Alhambra piqued the curiosity of readers who were completely engrossed in Irving’s description of the previously abandoned fortress. The Alhambra palace had been mostly forgotten, and left unmaintained until Washington Irving’s narrative and recollections revived interest. While staying in the Alhambra, Irving explored the abandoned palace and recollected the myths set within its walls, recording every detail of its architecture, story, and mystery. Originally built on the ruins of Roman buildings, the Alhambra was a small fortress built in 889 CE, and had been largely ignored and forgotten by the time Irving arrived in Granada. Upon entering the city, Irving requested permission from the governor to stay at the Alhambra palace. During their stay, Irving witnessed artistic culture through music and dance, noting how the locals seemed to celebrate every-day occurrences, creating a happy environment. After their horseback ride through the mountains, Irving and his guide stopped at an inn for a drink. Beginning with an expedition through the Andalusian mountains on horseback, cherishing the grandeur of the nature, Irving took his time to enjoy and observe the landscape and culture of the country.

Immediately taken by its beauty and extravagance, Irving requested a travel guide and began filling notebooks and journals with his observations and description of the magnificent setting. After completing a literary project in Madrid, author Washington Irving traveled to Granada, Spain. Compiled during a three-month stay in Granada, Spain, Tales of the Alhambra assembles descriptions, myths, and narratives of historical events.

Tales of the alhambra