The Golden Age of Granada followed and saw the city prosper from a cultural perspective with art and literature becoming an important feature of its character. Around this time (1248), building of the famous Alhambra began however progress was relatively slow as the project was so vast.
The Spanish Civil War was the next most significant period in the city’s history resulting in its capturing by nationalist forces and the dictator General Franco taking control until his death in 1975. The city prospered after Franco’s death and continued to grow as a tourist destination making use of draw cards such as the Alhambra to ensure the continued interest of international holiday makers.