Built under the reign of Isma’il I, the Mexuar is one of the most transformed spaces in the Alhambra complex and because of this, the original floor plan is unknown. Although the precise date of construction is unknown, it is thought that the Mexuar was constructed as a residential palace for Ismai’il I and later converted into a throne room by Muhammad V during his second reign. In 1590 a large explosion destroyed much of the original structure. Under the Christian era in 1632, the back halls were converted into a Christian chapel and a choir room was constructed.

Currently, the rectangular hall features four columns with corbels of mocarabes (muqarnas). The highest parts of the walls are decorated with fine plaster work.