Malaga is a port city in Spain’s famed Costa del Sol. Founded in the 8th. Century BC, Malaga is one of the oldest Mediterranean seaports and one of the oldest cities in the world.
Malaga has hosted a variety of civilizations starting with the Phoenicians who founded the first settlement they called Malaka. It has been ruled by Romans, Arabs, and Christians.
Malaga’s checkered past is reflected in the city’s landmarks. In Malaga you’ll find the ruins of a Roman Theater, a 10th-century Moorish castle, the 13th-century Alcazaba, and a beautiful Baroque basilica. Along with its rich history Malaga also boasts beautiful scenery, great weather year round, and wonderful beaches.
Malaga is also the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Lovers of modern art can visit the Pablo Ruíz Picasso Foundation Birthplace Museum.
In recent years Malaga has also become a popular stop for cruise ships plying the Mediterranean Sea. Cruisers stop for a day to take advantage of the lovely beaches, rich history, and seafood restaurants. It can also be the gateway to Granada and a visit to the famous Alhambra.
Here are 5 things to see and do in and around Malaga.
Alcazaba
Originally built in the 9th. Century this ancient castle was a stronghold for Moorish kings who ruled Spain for many centuries.
Perched high atop Mount of Gibralfaro this fortified castle had 3 defense walls and 110 towers.
Today tourists can see some of the remaining towers, the entrance, and gardens in the courtyard. It also houses the Museum of Malaga and the Archaeology Museum.
Malaga Cathedral
Dominating Old Town on Calle Molina Larios is this grand 16th. Century church which was built on the site of an earlier mosque.
Visitors are impressed by the large indoor space with its many chapels. This Cathedral is home to religious artwork and icons made by some of Spain’s great artists.
You can also climb the North Tower for some spectacular panoramic views.
Bishop’s Palace
Next to the Cathedral facing the Plaza of the Bishops you’ll find the colorful baroque building which is the Bishop’s Palace.
You can go inside and admire statues, the beautiful staircase and the exquisitely painted ceiling. The building is the bishop’s residence and is also home to the Diocesan Museum.
Old Town
You can spend hours wandering the small alleys in the Old Town. It’s a bustling place filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and landmarks.
You’ll find the Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace here, as well as the Pablo Ruíz Picasso Foundation Birthplace Museum. This museum occupies the building where the great artist was born and showcases 233 pieces by the artist.
Mercado de Atarazanas
The town’s historic marketplace is definitely worth a visit. Built on the ruins of a 14th. century Moorish shipyard this bustling market is where you’ll find vendors selling fruits, vegetables, cheeses, fish, meats, and more.
You can also admire the stained-glass window that depicts the historic landmarks of Málaga.
Alhambra
Take a day trip to Granada (1 1/2 hours each way) and visit the Alhambra.
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex built and rebuilt during the Nasrid dynasty. After the reconquest of Granada in 1492 the site became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella (where Christopher Columbus received royal endorsement for his expedition).
Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Spain’s major tourist attractions. It is a fine example of Spain’s Islamic architecture.
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