The Arrayanes Courtyard

This courtyard is also called "Mirtos", "Arrayanes" or "Alberca" courtyard, due to the elements present at this courtyard. This palace was started by "Ismail I", continued by "Yusuf I" and finished by "Mohamed V" in 1370. It was the official seat of the sultan, even though he had other palaces. The original function of "Comares" was to house the executive power, the government.

We can divide it in four areas; a first area would be the north compound of "Comares", which houses the "Embajadores" lounge, used for private receptions, and the "Barca" hall used as a resting area. The south side was reserved for the concubines and the staff. At the east and west sides, the rooms of the four wives of the sultan were located.

Source: http://www.alhambra.org/eng/index.asp?secc=/alhambra/alhambras_guide/the_comares_palace/the_arrayanes_courtyard