Alcazaba

/ˌælkəˈzɑbə/ noun

Definition

A fortified palace or citadel, especially one built by Moors in medieval Spain and North Africa.

Etymology

From Spanish 'alcazaba,' derived from Arabic 'al-qasbah' (the fortress or citadel), where 'qasbah' means 'fortress.' The Alhambra and similar structures are famous examples of alcazabas.

Kelly Says

The stunning Alhambra in Granada is an alcazaba—a fortress that's so beautiful that it makes you forget it was designed for warfare and defense. These structures represent the architectural genius of medieval Islamic Spain, where every function could also be art.

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