Gezicht op het Alhambra vanaf de Iglesia de San Nicolás 1880 - 1900

This albumen print shows a view of the Alhambra palace in Granada, Spain, taken from the Iglesia de San Nicolás. It was made by Señan y Gonzalez. The image captures the Alhambra, a symbol of Spain's complex history. Originally a Muslim palace, it was later Christianized during the Reconquista. This photograph was likely produced to cater to European travelers eager to witness and document the romantic landscapes and historical sites of Spain. Consider the role of photography in shaping perceptions of cultural heritage during this period. What social and economic factors influenced the production and consumption of such images? We could research travel guides, historical accounts, and the photographers’ biographies to better understand the work. This photograph reminds us that art reflects both the physical world and the social context in which it is created and viewed.