The Alhambra was originally a small fortress located in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. It was built in 889 AD on the remains of Roman fortifications. It was rebuilt in the mid-13th century by the Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the Emirate of Granada. The structure stands today as he designed it. It was converted into a royal palace in 1333 by Yusuf I, Sultan of Granada. The famous tessellations and other artworks that inhabit The Alhambra were key factors in inspiring Escher to become the artist that he was. One would be hard-pressed to find beauty and craftsmanship that the palace demonstrates anywhere else in the world.