malaga As i see it

Málaga is the major coastal city of Andalucía and is a genuine and typical Andaluz city with a gritty individualism and historic charm which is gradually being appreciated by tourists who, in the past, headed straight for the Costa resorts with barely a backwards glance. Admittedly, initial impressions can be discouraging as, like most Spanish cities, the shell is drab and industrial. But the kernel, the historic city centre, is fascinating, with its majestic, if peculiar, unfinished Gothic Cathedral, surrounded by sun-baked ochre buildings, narrow pedestrian streets and atmospheric bars.

The Moors occupied the city until the mid fifteenth century, after which it grew to become one of the foremost merchant centres in the entire Iberian Peninsula. This illustrious past has left its imprint on the historic centre, particularly around La Alcazaba, a fortress which dates back to 1065 and is now a fascinating archaeological museum. (Click here for a more detailed text on the history of Málaga)

Also worth a visit is the nearby castle which was rebuilt by the Moors and is today a traditional parador (state hotel) with superb panoramic views. During the nineteenth century, Málaga was a popular winter resort for the wealthy famed for its elegance and sophistication. The flora-flanked park on Calle Alameda dates back to this era and is recognised as being one of the most celebrated botanical collections in Europe. During the winter, open air concerts are held here every Sunday which makes a refreshing change from the bucket and spade scenario on the coast.

Pablo Picasso is the city’s famous son (not counting Antonio Banderas of course!) and a museum opened in 2003 dedicated to his work. His birthplace in Plaza Merced is today the Picasso Foundation.

Málaga's main theatre is the Teatro Cervantes where Antonio Banderas once trod the boards. He remains a regular patron.

As well as being a cultural centre, Málaga is also a great place to eat out. The Malagueños love their food and the bars and restaurants here are where the real social life takes place. The choice is unlimited and, on the whole, reasonable with some bars offering a menu of the day with bread and wine for as little as 6 euros. Tapas, small portions of many different dishes is an Andalusian tradition and a wonderfully inexpensive way to try a variety of local food.

The best known local fare in Málaga is "pescaito frito", an assortment of fried fish, including small sardines and red mullet, best washed down with a glass of ice cold fino at one of the many old fashioned bodegas in town. But it is El Palo, to the east of the city which is a typical fisherman’s village and the place to go if you want that veritable "catch of the day" freshness.

In the centre try a tapas and a glass of Málaga wine at Málaga's oldest tapas bar called "Antigua Casa de la Guardia" which is easy to find on the north side of the Alameda at number 16.

Málaga is always closed for the siesta period, so this is a perfect time for a long relaxing lunch.

These days, Málaga prides itself on being a modern city with the heart of commerce dominated by Calle Marqués de Larios which is the local Bond Street equivalent. This is the recommended place to start exploring the city as it is surrounded by attractive small streets and plazas, as well as the magnificent cathedral (Renaissance cathedral with a Baroque façade and choir by Pedro de Mena) which offers daily guided tours.

Garden lovers won't be disappointed in Málaga either. In the centre of the city is the beautiful Alameda Gardens, and just outside on the way to Antequera one finds the extensive Jardines de la Concepcion.

Málaga airport is of course on of the major airports in Spain due to the number of tourist arrivals on charter flights from Northern Europe using Málaga airport as a gateway to the Costa del Sol.