Málaga Things to Do Tips by Helga67

Alcazaba is a fortress built in the 11th century by the Moors. It was built on the remains of a Roman fortress. It has an impressive double wall with a large number of defence towers and contains three palaces in Moorish style surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains. Several terraces offer magnificent views of the town and harbour.

Inside one of the palaces, there is an archaeological museum about Paleolithic and Neolithic antiquities and an exhibition about Muslim ceramics and pottery.

It is undoubtedly a must-see attraction. Walking along the winding stone pathways and through the Moorish gates you will feel like being in another part of the world.

Alcazaba is open daily (except on Mondays) from 9.30 am to 8 pm.
Entrance fee: 1.80 EUR

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Phone: + 34 952 22 72 30
Address: Calle Alcazabilla

Just below the entrance to the Alcazaba are the ruins of an amphitheatre dating from Roman times. It is currently under restoration and free to visit.

It was not discovered until 1951. It wasn't used since the 3rd century and the Moors used parts of it for constructing the Alcazaba.

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Phone: + 34 951 04 14 00
Address: Calle Alcazabilla
Directions: Next to the Alcazaba

The cathedral is called La Manquita (the one armed) because one tower was never finished due to lack of money.
The cathedral was built over a period of two centuries on the site of an earlier mosque. This is why the building is such a potpourri of styles.

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Address: Calle Molina Larios

Gibralfaro is located high on a hilltop and was built to defend the Alcazaba. It has high ramparts, lookout turrets and a lengthy walled-in pathway from where you will have wonderful views of the city, harbour and bullring. Inside there is a military museum.

You can reach the castle by climbing the mountain for about 20 min. The path starts at the right hand side of the entrance of the Alcazaba. Be aware, though, that the climb is severe. There are also busses going up the hill. Ask for more info at the tourist office located at the entrance of the Alcazaba. Going by car, you need to follow the signs around the bullring "Plaza de Toros".

On the 3rd Sunday of the month entrance is free.

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Address: Cerro de Gibralfaro
Directions: Next to the Parador of Gibralfaro

Plaza de la Merced is a pretty little square, especially beautiful during May when all the trees are blooming purple. Most of the monumental buildings date from the 19th century when the city was important for its trade and commerce. Be aware though, that at night the square is often frequented by drug addicts and other undesirable types.

On this square you will also find the birthplace of Picasso (no. 15). It is the base of the Picasso Foundation and hosts temporary exhibitions. In 2003, the city has opened a museum dedicated to the artist. You will find the Picasso museum in Calle San Agustín 8, not far from the cathedral.

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Address: Plaza de la Merced
Directions: Go up Calle Alcazabilla to Calle Victoria and you will find it