As well as its impressive Al-Andalus heritage, there are Renaissance architectural gems and the most modern facilities, fit for the 21st century. Granada has an unmistakable Moorish essence, due to the fact that it was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. The gastronomy, craftwork and urban planning are influenced by its glorious past. Fountains, viewpoints and "Cármenes", houses surrounded by typical gardens of this city, create unforgettable corners in the city. It is no surprise that one of its old neighbourhoods, the Albaicín, has been awarded the World Heritage designation, together with the Alhambra and Generalife. It was an important cultural centre for many centuries, under the Moors and the Christians too, and nowadays it boasts a broad cultural and leisure programme. Film, music or theatre festivals are complemented with permanent or travelling exhibitions on all fields of knowledge. Old Renaissance palaces hold seminars, conferences and discussions, while the most innovative infrastructures are prepared for great events.
