Fresh Earthquakes Rock Spain, Forcing Restrictions At World-Famous Landmark
Fresh earthquakes struck Spain's southern Granada province on Tuesday, prompting authorities to restrict tourist access to parts of the Alhambra, one of the country's most visited landmarks, and to close museums and sports facilities. At least three people suffered minor injuries, including a child who was taken to hospital, while several buildings were damaged. The tremors follow a magnitude 5 earthquake in Granada on Saturday, which had already caused damage and forced a temporary closure of the Alhambra, underscoring growing concern about seismic activity in the region.
Tuesday's quakes each measured above magnitude 4, according to Spain's National Geographic Institute, with the largest, at magnitude 4.7, striking near the town of Gojar, about 10km south of Granada city, shortly followed by lighter tremors nearby. Cracks appeared in walls, facades were dislodged and bricks fell onto pavements, mostly affecting residential buildings, while Granada's metro reduced train speeds as a precaution and some hotels were evacuated. The Alhambra, visited by 2.7 million people last year, remains a key concern for authorities monitoring further seismic risk.
In short
- Fresh quakes hit Granada, restricting access to the Alhambra
- Three people lightly injured, one hospitalised
- Buildings damaged, museums and metro speeds affected
Explained simply
Granada lies in southern Spain, in a region where earthquakes can occur as the ground shifts along faults in the Earth’s crust. The city and surrounding towns are home to historic buildings as well as homes, public facilities and transport links.
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex in Granada, built over several centuries and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of Spain’s best-known attractions, so protecting visitors and the historic structures is an important part of any response to seismic risk.
Spain’s National Geographic Institute monitors earthquakes and records their strength and location. Local authorities oversee access to public places and safety measures, while specialists assess damage and the risk of further tremors.
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