The Patio de los Arrayanes: Detailed Mechanics

The Patio de los Arrayanes (Court of the Myrtles) and its central long reflecting pool is known for its tranquil beauty and is one of the best examples of how water was integrated into the Alhambra’s architectural design for both aesthetics and practical purposes.

Water Source and Entry

The reflecting pool in the Patio de los Arrayanes is fed by the Acequia Real water system, just like the fountains in other areas of the Alhambra. The water enters the pool from a gravity-fed canal that runs from the nearby hills through a series of channels and aqueducts. The water flows from the canal into a distribution chamber, which then directs the water into the pool through a series of inlets.

The inlets are carefully positioned at the perimeter of the pool to ensure an even distribution of water. These inlets are designed to manage the flow rate and direct the water into the pool in a smooth and controlled manner, ensuring that the surface of the water remains calm and perfect for reflecting the surrounding architecture.

Water Flow and Hydraulics

The water in the reflecting pool must remain still and undisturbed to achieve the desired reflective effect, which required a highly controlled flow system. The flow rate of water entering the pool is tightly regulated using flow control mechanisms, such as sluice gates and water channels. These mechanisms were designed to limit the water’s velocity and maintain a smooth flow.

Water enters the pool at the top end, creating a subtle cascade effect. As the water flows into the pool, the gentle surface tension allows the water to move without rippling. The design of the inlet channels and the strategic placement of the entry points ensure that the water flows evenly across the surface, maintaining its calm surface for reflection.

Additionally, underwater circulation systems could have been used to ensure that the water in the pool remained evenly distributed. These systems would have consisted of subsurface pipes that circulated the water from the deepest part of the pool back to the inlet, preventing stagnation and helping maintain water quality.

Water Filtration and Maintenance

To prevent the accumulation of dirt, algae, or debris in the pool, a filtration system would have been employed. While the system itself was likely simple by modern standards, it could have included a series of stone-lined filters or silt traps to remove large particles before the water entered the pool. The water could also have been periodically drained and replenished to maintain its clarity.

Given the importance of the pool’s visual appearance, maintenance was a key consideration. A constant flow of clean water would have helped prevent the buildup of algae or other contaminants. Engineers likely designed the system to maintain water movement just enough to prevent stagnation while also allowing it to be a still pool for reflection.

Hydraulic Design of the Pool

The design of the pool itself is based on a highly engineered hydraulic layout that ensures the proper management of water volume and flow. The pool’s rectangular shape was optimized for both visual balance and effective water management. The dimensions of the pool were carefully considered to allow for a uniform flow of water.

The depth of the pool was also critical in maintaining its reflective properties. Shallow pools allow the water to remain still and undisturbed, which is essential for creating the perfect mirror-like surface. The water’s movement needed to be minimal to avoid disrupting the reflections of the surrounding architecture.

In addition, the edges of the pool were designed with slightly inclined walls that guided the water to the center, ensuring that water moved smoothly without splashing over the sides. The slope of the walls would also prevent sediment buildup along the edges, promoting cleaner water.

Architectural Integration

The water system was seamlessly integrated into the architectural design of the Court of the Myrtles. The pool is not only a functional water feature but also an essential part of the overall aesthetic of the palace. The reflection of the Moorish arches, columns, and decorative tiling on the water’s surface is a key visual element of the space.

The careful balance of water flow and reflection was likely achieved through advanced water level control systems, which maintained the precise height of water in the pool at all times. These systems would have used overflow channels to regulate the water height, preventing flooding or water loss. The idea was to ensure that the water remained at the perfect level for both functional and visual purposes.

Key Engineering Principles at Play

Hydraulic Layout and Flow Control: The design of the pool’s inlets and the regulation of water flow through sluice gates and channels ensured that the water remained calm and undisturbed for the reflective effect.

Water Circulation and Filtration: The use of subsurface circulation and filtration mechanisms maintained the quality and clarity of the water, preventing stagnation and ensuring a clean appearance.

Water Level Regulation: Overflow channels and carefully designed inlets ensured that the water remained at a consistent height, contributing to both the aesthetic and functional needs of the pool.

Surface Tension and Reflection: The careful management of water flow and surface tension kept the water smooth, ensuring it served its dual purpose of both reflecting the architecture and providing visual serenity.