Leeuwenhof van het Alhambra c. 1870 - 1895

Rafael Garzón made this albumen print of the Court of the Lions in the Alhambra, in Spain, at the turn of the 20th century. This image speaks to the role of photography in shaping perceptions of historical sites. During this era, the Alhambra was not just a monument but a symbol of Spain's complex history, marked by both Islamic and Christian influences. Garzón's photograph highlights the Moorish architecture, emphasizing its intricate details and the serene atmosphere of the courtyard. Consider the institutional history, too. The Alhambra was a site of intense scholarly interest, undergoing extensive restoration. Photographs like this one played a crucial role in documenting and promoting this work. As historians, we examine such images not merely as records but as cultural artifacts that reflect contemporary values and attitudes towards the past. By consulting archives and period publications, we can better understand the photograph's place in shaping historical narratives.