The Palacios Nazaries were the Moorish royal palaces, containing royal offices, ceremonial rooms and private quarters.  Many rooms are ornately decorated and there are a number of courtyards with pools.  Since the royalty (and especially their women) did not go outside the palace often,  nature was brought to to them.

Anteroom

Detail of photo on left

Patio

The Court of the Myrtles, with its reflecting pool, is a popular "photo op."

The Courtyard of the 12 Lions is named from the fountain in the middle which rests on the backs of 12 lions.  Granada had a large Jewish population and the were good relations with the Moors.  The fountain was a gift from a Jewish leader. The Lions likely represent the 12 tribes of Israel. The fountain was also a clock, with water spouting from a lion's mouth depending on the hour.