The impost blocks
The impost blocks with inscriptions from the Patio de la Reja (Court of the Grated Window) is the new piece of the month in the Museum of the Alhambra. Those interested in participating in this free activity, organized by the Patronato de la Alhambra y Generalife and to be held every Saturday in September from 12:00 on, are invited to come to Room VII of the Museum of the Alhambra. The Arabic philologist Mariana Kalaitzidou will reveal details and specialties of this significant architectural element.
Two complete columns are on permanent display in the Museum of the Alhambra and they have, as one of their elements, impost blocks of extraordinary value, decorated with inscriptions. In her lecture, Kalaitzidou will reveal the history of their original place (the court called Patio de la Reja) and deepen knowledge on the impost blocks and the inscriptions they show.
The lecturer will examine the pieces, their evolution, carved decoration and polychromy. Furthermore, she will enhance their relation with their original surrounding. Finally, she will explain some basic notions of Nasrid epigraphy, like the script types, as well as the epigraphs on the impost blocks and columns at large.
These epigraphs not only had a decorative function, but it was also used by its designers as a vehicle for their messages.
Opening hours: Every Saturday in September, at 12:00 noon.
Location: Room VII, Museum of the Alhambra, Palace of Charles V.