Study abroad students will quickly discover that Granada provides the ideal setting for studying Spanish language and culture. The city’s tremendous history and culture transform the city into a veritable extension of the classroom. Its 250,000 residents make Granada readily approachable, while affording it all the amenities of a cosmopolitan city. The important role of the University of Granada and its student population mean that much of the city caters extensively to students, with low cost eateries and endless nightlife. And its strategic location in Andalusia makes it an excellent hub for exploring Southern Spain; its unique geography even allows you to go skiing in the Sierra Nevada and sunbathing in the Mediterranean in the same day.

History

Granada is best known historically as the last Moorish stronghold in Spain. The city was conquered by invading Muslim armies in 711, and the city was ruled by the Moors until 1492, when the Christians retook control. The centuries of Moorish control left an indelible mark on the city in the form of many monuments, quarters, gardens, plazas, hidden corners, and fountains. Especially noteworthy are the Albaícin, Spain's best-preserved Arab quarter, and the Alhambra, a magnificent palace built during the Nasrid dynasty.

Student Life

The University of Granada has a student population of 40,000, which gives the city a strong student ambiance. Granada abounds with restaurants, cafés, and theaters that cater to students. The city's nightlife is endless, and many students immerse themselves into grenadino culture by staying out with friends well past sunrise. The city also organizes many events for its students, and travel agencies put together excellent trips for students throughout Spain and around Europe.

Geography

Andalusia's unique geography gives students countless options for adventure and exploration. The beautiful Mediterranean beaches of the Costa Tropical await less than an hour away. Ski resorts in the towering Sierra Nevada are even closer, making daytrips commonplace for skiers and snowboarders. Even the charms of Morocco are easily accessible only a few hours away. And of course, students make the most of Granada's ideal location by making trips to visit such other Andalusian destinations as Seville, Córdoba, and Cadiz.

Fast Facts

Its population of 250,000 makes it a relatively large city in Spanish terms.
Granada is located in southern Spain, in the region of Andalusia.
Granada is Spain's third largest university city, with more than 40,000 students.
The area is characterized by geographical and scenic diversity, including the coastal area and the mountainous regions.
The nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains are a great location for skiing/snowboarding in the winter.
Granada has so many parks and gardens that it was declared "Patrimonio de la Humanidad" by UNESCO.
The beautiful beaches of the Costa del Sol are less than one hour away. Famous beaches include Marbella and Malaga.
Granada is close to Seville, Córdoba, Málaga, Almería, Cádiz and Gibraltar.
Sites in Granada not to be missed include The Alhambra (part fortress, part palace), which has been declared a World Heritage Site, and the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter.
The university's Center for Modern Languages is housed in the restored Palace of Santa Cruz in a charming area of the city.