Málaga on the Costa del Sol

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Málaga on the Costa del Sol

Founded by the Phoenicians around 1000 BC, historically Málaga was an important port city for the conquering Romans, Visigoths and Moors. It is the second largest city in Andalusia, with a 2006 census population of approximately 560,000. It is a hub of tourist activity as many visitors to the Costa del Sol fly into and out of the Malaga airport. Residents of Malaga are called, "Málagueños."

Tourism

Málaga's main claim to fame is being the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. The Pablo Ruiz Picasso Foundation (Fundación Pablo Ruiz Picasso) maintains a library and museum with a collection of the artist's work as well as that of other Málagueño modern artists, including Ernst, Moore, Miró, Matta, Christo, Bacon, Tápies, Chillida, Plensa, Dokoupil and Guinovart. Nearby is the Casa Natal, the house where Picasso was born.

The Castle of Gibralfaro is a Moorish castle built in the 14th century. Today the remains are impressive, as are the views. It is recommended to take the local bus that runs to the castle, as the hill is quite steep and some walkers have reported muggings on the walk to the castle. Inside the castle ruins is a military museum and a gift shop. 

The Málaga Cathedral is a 16th century cathedral built on the site of a former mosque. For unknown reasons, its Southern tower was never completed and the building therefore appears to be lopsided. Locals call it "La Manquita," which means "the one armed woman". 

• Contact information can be found in The AngloFILE: Museums & Monuments

Considered the most important tropical garden in Spain, and perhaps the best in Europe, La Concepción Gardens are located 5 Km from the city centre. The garden tour includes a museum with statuary, mosaics and archaeology exhibit.

• For contact details for La Concepción Gardens, see The AngloFILE: Days Out: Malaga

Leisure Activities In and Around Málaga

Every Sunday the local market takes place near the football stadium.

• More information can be found on the INFOrmation Page: Markets on the Costa del Sol

Málaga Information and Contacts

• See AngloINFO INFOrmation Page Emergency Services to the Costa del Sol

Local Málaga resources

• For English-speaking restaurants in Málaga, see The AngloFILE Restaurants: Malaga
• For English-speaking pubs in Málaga, see the AngloFILE: Bars: Malaga
• For hotels in Málaga, see the AngloFILE: Hotels: Malaga
• For property in Málaga, see the AngloFILE: Estate Agents: Malaga