Vélez-Málaga on the Costa del Sol

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Vélez-Málaga on the Costa del Sol

Vélez-Málaga, a large market town, is situated 26 Km east of Málaga. It is 5 Km inland from the more touristy Torre del Mar and is the Capital of La Axarquia. It was founded in the 10th century while the area was under Moorish domination. 

Referred to by locals as Vélez, Velez-Málaga is located in the valley of the River Vélez. Lying along the Route of the Sun and Avocado of the Costa del Sol, the countryside is also used to grow strawberries, grapes and tropical fruits. The grapes grown here produce famous Malaga wines such as sherry, manzanilla and moriles-montilla, traditionally drunk with tapas. Tapas are small dishes (generally meant to be shared) of traditional Spanish foods such as seafood, tortilla (egg and potato omelette generally cooked in olive oil), meat, fish and bread. Vélez-Málaga is well known for producing olive oil and sugarcane.

Tourism

After many years of Arab rule, the city began Catholic renewal projects in the late 15th century. In the 16th century and 17th centuries, many Catholic buildings were erected, including the Convent of San Francisco, though Moorish influences can be seen, especially in the archways. The area around the convent housed craftsmen and later, noblemen and royal officials. Some impressive homes, such as the Plaza de las Carmelitas, and the Casa del Mercader are still standing.

The church of Santa Maria la Mayor, formerly a mosque, was converted in the 15th century to a church. Many of the original features are still in place, such as the minaret (now enclosed by the tower), arches that separate a triple nave and a high Mudéjar ceiling. 

Leisure Activities In Vélez-Málaga

Every Thursday, local foods, souvenirs, plants and clothing are sold at the local market at New Park.

• For more information, see the AngloINFO What's On Guide Markets on the Costa del Sol

Vélez-Málaga Information and Contacts

• For a map of Vélez-Málaga: Click here

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

Local Vélez-Málaga Resources

• For property in Vélez-Málaga see The AngloFILE: Estate Agents: East Costa del Sol
• For English-speaking restaurants in Vélez-Málaga see The AngloFILE: Restaurants: Malaga
• For English-speaking pubs and bars in Vélez-Málaga see The AngloFILE: Bars: East Costa del Sol