Spain Guide - Article No.006

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Malaga City

By Melanie Bosano

Malaga is a port city of approximately 560,000 inhabitants, making it the sixth most populated city in Spain. The city lies between two rivers, the Guadalhorce and the Guadalmedina at the base of the Axarquia hills. Around 1000 BC the Phoenicians founded the city of Malaka. Six centuries later, the Romans conquered the city and in the fifth century A.D. the Visigoths took it over. This was followed by the Moorish invasion of Spain in the eighth century and the Caliphate of Cordoba became its ruler. In 1487 as part of the Reconquista, Malaga reverted to Christian rule. Tourism on the Costa Del Sol boosted the areas economy in the 1960's and the travel infrastructure took off, excellent train and bus connections, ferry connections to Morocco and the building of Malagas international airport. The city's historical centre is located behind the harbour and a pleasant walk will reveal many of the sights like the birthplace of the famous artist Pablo Picasso, The old Moorish fortress, the Gibralfaro castle and Calle Larios which is the main shopping centre. In addition, Malaga's cathedral, which was built on the site of an old Moorish mosque was commenced in 1528 and completed in 1719. However, one of its towers was never built giving the cathedral the nickname of "La Manquita" (small one armed). And this great history is not all that Malaga offers us. Located on the fabulous Costa Del Sol you will get to visit some great beaches with excellant water sports facilities, although if thats not your cup of tea you can always sit at one of the many chiringuitos (beach bars) for some superb food! If you are more of a night owl, believe me Malaga will also do you justice! With many choices of restaurants, nightclubs and bars you will be spolit for choice :)

Please visit my Andalucia website for more great information on this beautiful area in the South of Spain!