(slides 54, 55) The Court of the Lions is famous as one of the most architecturally subtle and successful spaces within the Alhambra. Here we see two views of the Court of the Lions, which was reserved for intimate and private use. Slide 55 shows the fountain, from which the patio receives its name. Slide 54 shows a view from the multitude of slender columns that resemble a forest. The lion fountain is a historical artifact dating from the 11th century. It was probably used by the Nasrids in an attempt to link their dynasty to the historical past of Andalusia. The Jewish scholar and philosopher, Ibn Gabirol, wrote a poem if not about this fountain then about one very similar to it. Ibn Gabirol extolled the kingly virtues of the lions in the context of the wonders of the fountain. Back to slides