Best Historical Sites in Malaga

Malaga is not just a city famous for its sandy beaches, but it is also a city with spectacular historic buildings and monuments. In Malaga, you can witness the remains of the olden days’ Moorish buildings, an Arab-characteristic palace and Spanish bullring. It is a city full of diverse cultures, heritage and beautiful ancient architectures.

Below are some of the best historical sites in Malaga that you should not miss!

1. Castillo De Gibralfaro | Camino Gibralfaro

Built-in the 14th century, this castle was initially used to protect the Alcazaba fortress. It was built on a mountain so through its walls, you can get a bird’s eye view of the city.

This castle is divided into two parts; the upper part called the main courtyard is where the Interpretation Centre situated; and the barracks troops and stables located at the lower part.

It is one of the places you have to visit if you want to learn more about the history of Malaga.

2. Alcazaba | Calle Alcazabilla

The Alcazaba fortress was built between 1057 and 1063. Alcazaba means citadel in Arab and it is one of the best historical sites that is much visited in Malaga. It is located at the foot of Gibralfaro hill and there is a passage connecting the Alcazaba and the Castle of Gibralfaro.

It is a beautiful defensive fortress combined with some Arab palace characteristics that are surrounded by rectangular pools and gardens. This fortress holds important historical value to the city because it is one of the essential works of the Muslims in Spain.

3. Roman Theatre | Calle Alcazabilla

Lying at the foot of Gibralfaro hill is the Roman Theatre. It is said that it was constructed at the time of Augustus and later rediscovered in 1951. Casa de la Cultural (Cultural House) was demolished to uncover this theatre.

As it is located beneath Alcazaba, a lot of the carved stones and columns were used to support the fortress. Now in the Roman Theatre, you can enjoy watching shows that bring you back to the ancient times by a modern interpretation center.

4. La Malagueta Bullring | Paseo Reding

Spain is famous for its bullfighting, and what is more fascinating than watching it in an ancient bullring? La Malagueta Bullring was built in 1874 and was later declared as the Historic-Artistic Monument and Official Site of Cultural Interest in 1976 and 1981.

To this day, you can still enjoy the bullfighting scene in this huge stadium that seats 14000 people. The Bullfighting season starts from April to September every year.

5. Mercado Central | Calle Atarazanas

Mercado Central de Atarazanas is the central market of Malaga. The building itself has a long history and holds great cultural and historical values. Initially, this is where an old Moorish Shipyard stood, but it was later replaced by the market building in 1868.

However, the market took on the name of the shipyard. The only remains of the shipyard are the main archway which is now the main entrance of the market.

In this market, you can find gastro tapas, sausages, nuts and dried fruits, various kinds of olives and many more Spanish foods. In fact, apart from just window shopping the food aisles, you can sample the Spanish specialties too.