The Alhambra Palace site overlooking the city of Grenada, stands out with examples of Moorish architecture. The site is perhaps the most striking example of Muslim architecture in Europe. This palace was built before the reconquista, (the re-conquering of Spain by the Christian kings.) Spain reached the apex of cultural progress under Muslim rule and after reconquista embarked on decades of tyranny over the citizens, exploration for new lands and exploitation of conquered peoples.

Ferdinand and Isabella banished all Muslims who refused to accept Christianity and decreed that all Jews must convert to Christianity or be expelled.

Isabella granted her now famous charter to Columbus who set sail and "discovered" America.

Within forty years Spain had established colonies throughout the Carribean, conquered Florida, the Aztecs in Mexico and the Incas in Peru.

In 1494 Spain and Portugal signed the Treaty of Tordesillas which was an agreement to divide the New World between them.

Construction at Alhambra started as early as the 13th century and consists of several palaces built by different rulers but the architectural style remains consist with an almost romantic design of slender columnar arcades, fountains, and light-reflecting pools. Most prominent is the "Lion Court."

Ferdinand and Isabella are buried at Granada.

Related documents:

Letter to Christopher Columbus from the King and Queen of Spain.

Journal, Christopher Columbus.

Epistola De Insulis Nuper Inventis, Christopher Columbus.

Letter to the King and Queen of Spain, Christopher Columbus.