Medieval Spain was divided into Emirates under the jurisdiction of Moorish Muslim rulers. In the 14th century the rulers of the Emirate of Granada built a fortress and palace that remains one of the best examples of Arab culture in the world. It was called the Alhambra, and has inspired great works of art and literature for centuries.
And, more recently, games. The Alhambra games (there are a number of expansions available) allow players to reenact the construction of the Alhambra, with each player responsible for his or her own complex of buildings. Play is primarily card-based, with players drawing, trading and moving tiles and cards to improve their complex.
Strategies and gameplay are fairly complex--this isn't for the novice or anti-gamer. Among board game lovers, Alhambra has grown rapidly in popularity for this reason, and is an excellent choice for improving your skill as a player. Part real estate, part trading, and part financial market game, Alhambra promises to provide thoughtful fun long after lesser games have fallen out of favor.
- 2-6 Players
- Ages 8+
- 60 Minutes

Review by C. Hollis Crossman
C. Hollis Crossman used to be a child. Now he's a husband and father who loves church, good food, and weird stuff. He might be a mythical creature, but he's definitely not a centaur. Read more of his reviews
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