The great beaches of the Costa del Sol are what have made Malaga one of the most visited regions of Spain. But this town has more to offer than just seaside and sunshine!

Only half an hour away, this old town is charming, with narrow streets that still have a Moorish air, Baroque facades and little squares, and the hidden corners that preserve a nineteenth century air. There is plenty to see in both the old part of the city and in its more populated neighbourhoods, next to the port or the beach at El Palo.  Malaga was founded by Phoenicians, and was of great importance in the Moorish era due to its wide bay and entry to the Mediterranean sea.

Highly interesting historical remains are left in the town itself as well as in the province. Add to that beautiful landscapes and picturesque villages, and perhaps you will understand why so many people live in this historic city.           

The city’s most distinctive building, the11th century Alcazaba sits in majestic splendour on the hillside overlooking the African coast.

The Alcazaba is a military fortress build by the Moors in the 11th century on the remains of a Romans fortress. The fortress lies on a hill top with good views over the town and the sea and originally consisted of 3 protecting walls - whereas two are still remaining -  more than 100 towers and a superior part with a residential area including three palaces.

An important example of Moorish architecture, it has an impressive double wall and several imposing defensive towers its entrance staggered purposely for defensive purposes. Partially inspired by La Alhambra in Granada it contains three magnificent palaces and beautiful gardens with several ornate fountains. The Alcazaba also houses the Archaeological Museum, home of numerous Phoenician and Muslim finds.

The best preserved Alcazaba in Spain, and itself more impressive than the one at La Alhambra in Granada.  The gardens inside the Alcazaba are particularly vivid during April to July, and are one of the main draws for the complex.   Don't forget to visit the remains of a Roman theatre too.

Very close to the Alcazaba is the Castillo de Gibralfaro. Originally it was a palace built probably by Phoenicians, but in the 14th century the Caliph Yasuf I had built over it the fortress which is conserved today. Two of its towers are connected by walkways to the Alcazaba