The Granada Cathedral is enormous. Inside, towering columns rise into sweeping arches that seem to hold up the entire sky. Even the “smaller” chapels lining the nave feel monumental. Each one is richly decorated and spacious enough to be a little church on its own.

The grand façade of the Granada Cathedral under a clear blue sky, illuminated by the warm afternoon sun. The Renaissance-style exterior features soaring pilasters, elaborate sculptural reliefs, and three monumental arched entrances. Crowds gather along the base, suggesting a popular event or gathering. The strong sunlight casts dramatic shadows, emphasizing the depth and detail of the stonework.View of the cathedral’s soaring nave leading to the main altar, framed by towering white columns and vaulted ceilings. The richly ornamented apse glows with golden highlights, housing rows of paintings and stained-glass windows that bathe the interior in multicolored light. Visitors walk quietly among pews, admiring the architectural grandeur and spiritual ambiance.Dramatic upward view of the cathedral’s domed sanctuary, crowned with a celestial blue ceiling adorned with golden stars. Ornate gold detailing and stained-glass windows encircle the dome, while a silver altarpiece shimmers below, surrounded by fresh pink flowers. The composition draws the eye upward, showcasing the majestic verticality and intricate beauty of the space.Baroque side chapel dripping in golden ornamentation, with intricate swirling carvings and religious figures embedded into the walls. A statue of the Virgin Mary stands at the center of the altar, framed by radiant light and surrounded by rich textures. Two visitors gaze up in awe, emphasizing the overwhelming visual impact of the chapel’s lavish design.Close-up of the cathedral’s opulent pipe organ, mounted above eye level on a gilded platform. A cascade of polished metal pipes fans outward from the ornately carved golden housing, contrasting with the crisp white architecture of the surrounding columns and vaulted ceiling. The composition highlights the grandeur and craftsmanship of the instrument.Side altar framed by rounded white columns and golden trim, featuring a gilded retablo adorned with religious paintings. A central crucifixion scene is flanked by smaller panels, each rich in color and emotion. The setting is contained behind a low metal gate, underscoring its sacred significance within the larger church interior.Another elaborately decorated side altar, showcasing a golden Gothic-style altarpiece beneath an arched ceiling richly painted with ornamental patterns. Above the altar, stained-glass windows filter colored light, enhancing the visual warmth of the gold leaf and stone textures. The surrounding area is framed by white marble columns and filigree details.Close-up view of a stained-glass window set into an ornately decorated stone wall. The vibrant panel depicts religious figures in richly colored robes, their expressions solemn and reverent. Below the window, a gilded architectural element with curving forms and rounded plaques adds depth and texture to the composition.Circular stained-glass window featuring two male religious figures, one older and bearded in brown robes, the other younger in blue. The window is inset into a plain white wall with minimal decoration, allowing the vibrant colors and expressive detail of the glasswork to stand out dramatically against the surrounding simplicity.Vaulted ceiling detail with a symmetrical ribbed pattern, featuring floral and scroll motifs carved in white stone. The design showcases the intricacy of Gothic vault construction, with intersecting arches and decorative bosses creating a harmonious, geometric composition that draws the eye toward the center.

2025-05-31

We went to Rincón de Rodri and really enjoyed their zamburiñas (scallops), paella de mariscos (seafood paella), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tomate aliñado (seasoned tomato salad). For “free” (when we ordered drinks) they also gave us the fritura de gambas (fried shrimp).

Grilled scallops served in their shells, each delicately charred and topped with minced garlic and olive oil. The shells display natural hues of purple and white, enhancing the seafood’s golden sear and glistening texture. Presented on a white ceramic plate, the dish looks fresh, rich, and flavorful.A heaping plate of seafood paella with vivid golden-yellow rice, generously studded with green bell pepper, shell-on prawns, mussels, and a langoustine. The rice appears moist and glossy, capturing the essence of a well-made sofrito and rich seafood stock.A bowl of sizzling gambas al ajillo—plump shrimp and diced garlic swimming in hot olive oil. The prawns are pink and slightly curled, with golden garlic bits adding texture and a savory aroma. The oil’s sheen reflects the warmth and flavor of the dish.Heirloom tomato salad with a vibrant mix of red, purple, and green tomato wedges, generously drizzled with a bright green garlic and herb dressing. The tomatoes look juicy and ripe, and the chunky dressing gives a rustic, homemade appeal.A plate piled with crispy, golden fried shrimp served whole, including heads and tails, highlighting their crunchy texture. A dollop of creamy white sauce sits to the side, adding contrast and a hint of indulgence.A fresh seafood display behind glass at the bar, with various fish, shellfish, and crustaceans laid on crushed ice. The counter is lit from above, giving the seafood a vibrant, just-caught look, while the metallic surfaces and stacked wine boxes create an inviting, market-style ambiance.A chalkboard menu listing fresh seafood offerings in handwritten Spanish, framed in light wood. Items include gamba blanca, carabineros, zamburiñas, and ostras, with stars highlighting select dishes. The casual script and simple presentation evoke a sense of local charm and authenticity.

2025-05-31