Pomegranate The fruit spread throughout the city of Granada

The magical city of Granada has a curious name. The word in Spanish means Pomegranate, exactly the same as the red fruit. This symbol appears in several parts of the city, as well as on its official flag and coat of arms. Also on grilles, drain pipes and stunning stone floors.

Learn more about this powerful symbol of the city of Alhambra:

Pomegranate Pomegranate Stone Symbol

Pomegranate symbol

Here is a real pomegranate on a tree seen in the city of Granada. Pomegranates grow well in this Mediterranean climate, so it’s not surprising to see trees in and around the city. The fruit is in season from autumn until the new year. The tree in summer bears vibrant orange flowers. You can see little pomegranates appearing in late summer when you look closely.

Pomegranates have been cultivated for 5,000 years and once harvested, they last a long time. Linked in folklore to survival, fertility and good health, in many cultures it is a highly valued fruit.

This local variety of pomegranate is used to eat as a fruit or as seeds on top of a salad (instead of juice). They have more fiber than other varieties seen in the Middle East, which have softer centers.

The importance of the Pomegranate symbol for the city of Granada goes back centuries. In the 15th century we can see this in the fabric patterns, which I saw in the Alhambra Museum, inside the Carlos V Palace. Since Isabel la Católica came to power in 1492, the pomegranate has been incorporated into the official flag of Spain.

Origin of the name of the city Granada

There are many different theories as to why Grenada is called Granada or Pomegranate. (in Spanish), to be honest I never got a definitive answer to this question, even after living here for over 17 years. Here are some of the different theories:

Garnatum – The Roman word for pomegranate was given to the city because there were many pomegranate trees here when the Romans arrived in this region.
Garanat – This means Pilgrims Hill of Pilgrims in Arabic.

However, it is not the only name for the city over the centuries. Elvira and Ilberis were earlier names given by Roman and Iberian colonists.

Fajalauza Ceramic Pomegranate

Traditional local pottery designs are decorated with fruit. As you can see in these Fajalauza tiles here. All the street names in Granada are engraved on ceramic plaques on the walls, the symbol of Granada is painted on top of the plaque. In blue or sometimes in blue and green pattern.

Throughout the city there are bollards shaped like pomegranates. Mainly in the Cathedral and Plaza Nueva region. The local council adorns manhole covers, fire hydrants and other urban features with pomegranates. So you can find them in the most unexpected places.

This fountain below is called Fonte da Romã, in Humilladero Square and is decorated with many pomegranates in the center.