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Tourist Information

Malaga

It is easy to understand why Malaga City is dubbed the Capital of the Costa del Sol. Whereas it was once considered to be the poor cousin of Andalucia’s capital city, Seville, it now competes successfully for attention. Since the opening of the already well acclaimed Picasso Museum in 2003, cultural tourists have been flocking to this and the now beautifully renovated birthplace of the great artist, all in the heart of the historic centre of the city.

As well as the shrines to the great Picasso, other great historic monuments include the imposing Baroque Cathedral, popularly known as La Manquita (One-Armed Woman), referring to its rather lopsided appearance due to the missing east bell tower. High on the hill above the city is the Parador de Gibrafaro (state-run hotel) of great historic importance. It was once a Moorish castle and is a wonderful place to either stay the night or have a long lunch enjoying these privileged surroundings with panoramic views over Malaga city and out across the port to the sea.

Although there was much destruction in Malaga during the time of the Spanish Civil War, there is still plenty of proof of the Moorish occupation. Today you can visit the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, dating back to 1065, which also now features a very interesting archaeological museum.

Malaga centre is not only the perfect place to explore the many historical monuments, atmospheric little streets and squares with delightful cafe culture, but it is also a wonderful shopping centre. The main street to head for runs perpendicular to the stunning tree lined avenue, the Alameda, and starts at the Plaza Marina, near the port. Calle Marqués de Larios (often simply referred to as ‘Larios’) was made a pedestrian zone in 2002 as part of the overall improvements being made to Malaga centre. The result is a busy chic area with many boutiques, designer shops and classy cafes, all surrounded by beautifully restored buildings.