Perched atop Granada's hills, Alhambra Palace stands as a testament to Moorish architectural brilliance and the rich tapestry of Islamic history in Spain. What secrets lie within its intricate courtyards and lush gardens that have captivated visitors for centuries? It's time to embark on a virtual exploration of this iconic palace-fortress and uncover the stories etched into its ancient walls.
Join New York Adventure Club as we delve into the history and artistry of the Alhambra, the renowned 14th-century palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain, celebrated for its exquisite Islamic architecture and storied past.
Led by Stephen F. Byrns, President and Founder of the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, our unique digital showcase of this historic site will include:
- An overview of the Alhambra's construction during the Nasrid Dynasty, highlighting the contributions of rulers Yusuf I and Mohammed V between 1333 and 1391
- A detailed look at the Generalife, the summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid sultans, renowned for their serene beauty and intricate design
- An exploration of the Alhambra's architectural features, including its delicate stucco work, arabesques, and the iconic Court of the Lions
- A discussion on the influence of the Alhambra on 19th-century art and architecture, particularly its impact on American designs
- Insights into the cultural and historical significance of the Alhambra, reflecting the sophisticated society of medieval Islamic Spain
Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Steve — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.
See you there, virtually!
*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar
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***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Steve
Stephen F. Byrns founded the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy in 2011 and is its president. A graduate of Princeton and Columbia Universities, Byrns was a founding partner of BKSK Architects, a successful architectural firm in New York City that was established in 1985.
Byrns was appointed by Mayor Bloomberg to serve as a Landmarks Preservation Commissioner on the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission from 2004-10. He served on the Board of Wave Hill from 2000-2010.
Byrns lived in Yonkers in the 1990s, when he discovered Untermyer Park and Gardens. He revisited it in 2010 when told that the fountains had been turned on after decades of disuse. The more he learned about Samuel Untermyer’s garden, the more he was convinced that a conservancy should be established to work with the City of Yonkers to make it once again one of the greatest gardens in America.
A Board of Directors was established, and Marco Polo Stufano, the retired founding Director of Horticulture at Wave Hill, was engaged to be the Conservancy’s horticultural advisor. Sufficient funds were raised to hire Timothy Tilghman to be its first horticulturist in 2011 and there is currently a staff of 11 horticulturists at the garden. Byrns started full-time work at the Conservancy in early 2016.
Recognition of the Conservancy’s efforts has been swift and widespread, with significant coverage from the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Martha Stewart Living, Elle Decor and other publications. National awards have been presented, including the Garden Club of America, Institute for Classical Architecture and Art, Foundation for Landscape Studies and the Victorian Society of America. The gardens are once again a showplace and are attracting people from near and far — over 300,000 visitors last year.
Its website is www.untermyergardens.org.
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Categories: Virtual, Landmarks
