On the shores of the Mediterranean, in a place where the unpredictability of the sea and wisdom of the mountains intertwines to produce a unique experience consisting of a colourful weave produced not only by the defining nature of its physical surroundings but also by the many cultures that have flourished and faded here, lies the city of Málaga.
The ancient history of Málaga has the sea as its primordial basis. It was from the sea that, over two thousand years ago, the first navigators and traders arrived from the east. Since then, the city has become famous for its open and welcoming character, its keen sense of encouragement for commercial enterprise and its hospitality.
Walking through the narrow streets of Malaga provides any visitor with the opportunity to get a flavour of its long and distinguished history; one that has developed and flourished in a location that appears to have been favoured by the Gods.
In just a few minutes it’s possible to visit a Roman theatre and a magnificent Muslim castle, to view a superb Renaissance Cathedral and to be submerged in heady atmosphere of its modern day streets filled with the colours, scents and flavours of yesterday.
The centre of the city not only preserves traces of Roman, Visigoth and Muslim influences as demonstrated in the main avenues of Granada and Fresca, but also proudly displays more recent architectural influences such as those of the urban reforms of the 19th century. The most notable example of this is the calle Larios, which comprises one of the principal streets of the historic centre.
Beautifully preserved palaces, such as those of La La Aduana, Buenavista, Episcopal or la Casa del Consulado are only some of the magnificent examples of Spanish architectural genius that line the picturesque streets.
Historically, Malaga was founded by the Phoenicians, who built their fortifications near to a hill where the Alcazaba is located today, while during Roman times the city enjoyed privileged confederate status.
It was, however, under Arab rule that the city flourished and, in 1478 when the Catholic Kings, Isabella of Castille and Fernando of Aragón, entered in triumph after nearly 700 years of Arabic rule, it was a fully developed and confident citadel that fell within the newly forged Christian sphere of influence.
At the end of the 18th century, Malaga became a popular city of residence for the aristocracy and was dominated by two influential Spanish families: the Larios and the Heredia, who transformed it into the second most influential industrial city of Spain.
Today, Malaga continues to grow. One of the most notable features of this has been the development of the Costa del Sol, which has been converted, arguably, into one of the worlds’ major tourist areas.
More information: www.malagaturismo.com
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