Conceived as the centre of political and military power of the Kingdom of Granada, the Alhambra was between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries the official residence of the Nasrid Sultans, who wanted to reflect the greatness of islamic culture through the creation of numerous palaces and gardens. Their eagerness to construct resulted in a stunning ensemble that has become the main reference of hispano-muslim architecture owing to its artistic refinement and ornamental exuberance.