Dialogue Between Palace and Land—Rain Garden and Hydrological Restoration Strategies for Sustainable Landscape Renewal at the Alhambra

This study investigates sustainable landscape renewal at the Alhambra through the lens of rain gardens and hydrological restoration. Facing increasing environmental pressures such as seasonal droughts, flash flooding, and soil degradation, the Alhambra presents an opportunity to integrate site-responsive water-sensitive strategies within a historic context. Through topographic and hydrological analysis, the research identifies key zones where rain garden systems can be implemented to manage stormwater, improve infiltration, and enhance microclimates. In parallel, it explores the reactivation of historic water flows and passive irrigation channels, aligning ecological restoration with the site’s heritage identity. Drawing from techniques such as vegetated swales, permeable surfaces, and native planting design, the project develops adaptable, small-scale interventions compatible with conservation guidelines. The approach emphasizes low-impact, reversible strategies that reinforce natural water cycles while improving soil stability and biodiversity. Engineering tools such as GIS mapping, water flow modeling, and soil performance evaluation are applied to assess feasibility and long-term benefits. By focusing on hydrological functions as a foundation for land restoration, this study contributes to ongoing conversations about sustainable practices in heritage landscapes. It offers a replicable model for integrating nature-based infrastructure into culturally sensitive sites and aligns closely with the themes of the “Landscape Architecture and Land Restoration” session.