Granada earthquakes damage historic sites and close Alhambra’s Alcazaba

Severe earthquakes struck the Spanish city of Granada on Tuesday, causing significant damage to historic sites and prompting the closure of a major UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, experienced limited reopening on Wednesday following a 4.7-magnitude earthquake near the town of Gojar, about 10km south of Granada.

The oldest section of the Alhambra, the Alcazaba, remains closed until further notice. The earthquakes caused minor injuries, with three people, including a child, being taken to hospitals. About 600 residents were evacuated and inspected, mostly from the Las Gabias area. Emergency services received over 500 calls and treated 14 people, primarily for panic and anxiety.

Inspections revealed large cracks, fallen masonry, and damaged facades, though authorities reported no widespread structural instability. The cathedral of Granada remained closed pending further examination, and damage was also reported at the Church of San Miguel Bajo and the Monastery of San Jeronimo. The 16th-century Granada Cathedral, built over a former mosque, is an important example of Renaissance architecture.

The earthquakes follow a 4.8-magnitude tremor near Alhendin on Saturday, which damaged homes, vehicles, and several churches. Granada Cathedral and other historic sites had previously required repairs after an earthquake swarm in 2021. The province of Granada continues to operate its earthquake plan, conducting inspections of homes, public buildings, and monuments.