Islam forbade images and figures to be used as decoration in the Alhambra. As a result, the ornamentation of the Alhambra consists solely of floral patterns, geometric shapes, and intricate designs. Symmetry played a large role in most of the patterns seen in the Alhambra. Another common decorative element is the heavy use of azulejos decorations.
Azulejos are colored, ceramic, glazed tiles, which the Nasrids brought to Spain in the middle of the thirteenth century.