The capital of the Costa del Sol has become one of the country’s leading cultural destinations thanks to the wide range of museums and monuments the city has to offer.
Did you know that Málaga is considered one of the the oldest cities on the entire European continent That’s right: there is evidence that it was founded as Malacca by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC; it was part of the Roman Empire, home to kings and Taifa kingdoms during the Al-Andalus period, and a key location for the Christians. All this history and this blend of cultures have left a physical legacy embodied in its magnificent and unique monuments, which we can still admire today, millennia later.
In Lolita Andalusian Tavern, we know better than anyone just how important our roots and history are, which is why we’ve decided to write this post. We recommend you read it whilst enjoying one of our delicious tapas in the most authentic Andalusian atmosphere in Málaga. We hope you enjoy it!
The top 5 must-see sights in Málaga
Below, we’ll highlight the five must-see sights in the capital of the Costa del Sol if you’re visiting the city.
1. The Alcazaba in Málaga
The Alcazaba in Málaga This is one of the monuments dating from the ancient world of Al-Andalus. It served as a palace and fortress for the Muslim kings.
It was built on top of a hill overlooking the city and its surroundings, which enabled it to control the access routes to Málaga. The original layout of this building was similar to that of other defensive structures found throughout Europe at the time, but over the years it has undergone many changes and additions.
Nowadays, you can visit the interior of this fortress with its beautiful gardens and walkways, where you can enjoy the same spectacular views that the Taifa rulers admired 800 years ago.
2. Málaga Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Incarnation
Málaga Cathedral It is, without a doubt, one of the city’s most iconic buildings. It is situated in the Plaza de la Encarnación, where visitors can admire its majestic façade, with two towers on either side, and its beautiful Baroque interior.
It was built between 1528 and 1784, although it has undergone several renovations since then, particularly following damage caused by earthquakes and the bombing during the Civil War.
3. Roman theatre
The Roman Theatre, situated at the foot of the Alcazaba, is one of Málaga’s most important monuments and one of the best-preserved in Spain. It was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, between 19 BC and 13 BC, as a venue for public gatherings and entertainment, with a particular focus on tragic and comic plays.
4. Gibralfaro Castle
Perched atop Mount Gibralfaro, this is another of the historic monuments you simply must visit if you’re in Málaga, thanks to its spectacular views over the city.
Its construction dates back to the 14th century and it served to protect the Alcazaba, but it was also used as an observation post during the Civil War (1936–1939). Today, it is a museum where visitors can see archaeological finds from all over Spain, as well as weapons and tools used by soldiers during this period.
5. The Germans’ Bridge
This metal monument was built during the 20th century; its official name is the Santo Domingo Bridge. However, it was a gift from Germany to Málaga in gratitude for the assistance provided following the sinking of the German ship Gneisenau, hence its nickname, the ‘Germans’ Bridge’.
Be sure to visit these five monuments during your stay in Málaga and see for yourself how they fit into the city’s long and varied history. You won’t regret it!