Malaga’s Historic Hot-Spots

Malaga is the fifth largest city in Spain and the principle airport in the popular Costa del Sol region. While many visitors merely use it as a place to land and take their luggage to another resort along the coast, Malaga is an exciting tourist destination in its own right. Along with the often frequented pubs, restaurants and clubs, the city boasts many cultural landmarks, left behind by a variety of rulers throughout its rich history. So, if you enjoy your holidays filled with cultural hot-spots, take a read of this article to get an idea of some of this Spanish city’s best sites.

The Romans left a large cultural footprint on Spain after their arrival, with a reign that lasted over three centuries. One of the most impressive structures left from this ancient period is an amphitheatre, dating back to the 1^st century, having built during the reign of the Emperor Augustus. It actually remained buried underground for many centuries until being rediscovered in 1951.

Interestingly, much of the amphitheatre’s stone structure was later plundered by the Moors to build a mighty stone fortress nearby. This huge structure, known as La Alcazaba, dates from as early as the 8^th century, and was home to many of Malaga’s rulers throughout the ages. Today two of the three walls remain while over 100 towers are still intact. As the fortress is built on a hill, views from one of the open towers offer spectacular views over the centre of Malaga and the nearby port. The attraction also includes a museum, and extensive gardens, which are worth visiting in their own right.

Another must see historic building in Malaga is the stunning cathedral, built between 1528 and 1728. It was first intended to house two turrets, but money ran out after just one. It now stands lop-sided with just one turret, earning the fond nickname, ‘La Manquita’, which loosely translated means ‘The One Armed Lady’.  It has been decorated over the centuries in a range of styles, from the Renaissance to the Baroque period and has been given much if its character by the decorative wood-carvings of well-known 17^th century carpenter, Pedro de Mena.  It is a building close to Malaga’s heart, housing the famous Chapel of the Fallen, dedicated to those who died in the Spanish Civil War and also contains a treasured collection of paintings and statues.

To visit Malaga take a look at Cheapflights.co.uk to compare some of the best deals on cheap flights to Malaga. You could also book a holiday package from a variety of Spain holidays from James Villas, who offer a variety of villas to suit families and couples.