What is the Corral del Carbón and why is it so special?
The Corral del Carbón is the only Nasrid alhóndiga that has been fully preserved in the Iberian Peninsula. Built in the 14th century, it served as a warehouse for goods and a lodging place for merchants. Its original name was al-Funduq al-Yadida, which means “New Alhóndiga.”
A glimpse of its history: from the 14th century to the present day
Nasrid origins and commercial functions
Commissioned by King Yusuf I before 1336, the Corral del Carbón was located next to the Alcaicería and the Great Mosque, serving as an inn and marketplace for merchants arriving in Granada.
Transformations after the Reconquest
After the Christian conquest, it was granted to Sancho de Arana in 1494. Later, in 1531, it was transformed into a corral de comedias (a courtyard theater), and eventually became a residential tenement, where coal was stored — hence its current name, Corral del Carbón.
Restoration and preservation
Declared a National Monument in 1887, it was restored by Leopoldo Torres Balbás between 1929 and 1931. In 1992, Rafael Soler Márquez carried out a new restoration, and in 2006, further work was done to clean and consolidate the facade.
Architecture and details you can’t miss
The impressive facade
The entrance is marked by a large pointed horseshoe arch, adorned with muqarnas and an inscription from Surah 112 of the Qur’an. Above it, a twin-arched window and a wooden eave complete this architectural gem.
The Inner courtyard and its galleries
The nearly square central courtyard is surrounded by three levels of galleries. In the center, a stone basin was used for pack animals to drink water. The upper rooms served as lodging for the merchants.
The Corral del Carbón today: culture and tourism
Today, the Corral del Carbón is home to the City of Granada Orchestra and the El Legado Andalusí Foundation. Its courtyard hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural events, especially during the summer months.
Practical information for your visit
Opening hours and admission
The Corral del Carbón is open to the public every day from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Admission is free, allowing access to the courtyard and a room for temporary exhibitions.
💡 If you want to enjoy the full experience with explanations in different UNESCO World Heritage neighborhoods, you can book an official guided tour of the Albaicín and Sacromonte through our website.
How to get there?
Located in the heart of Granada, on Mariana Pineda Street, it is easily accessible on foot from the Cathedral or Plaza Nueva. You can also reach it by city bus, using the lines that run along Gran Vía or Plaza Isabel la Católica.
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