The biznaga, the symbol of Málaga
During your visit to Málaga, you’re likely to be struck by a few bunches of white flowers which are sold on the street. These flowers are known as biznagas and are one of the city’s distinctive symbols.
At the restaurant PEZWANDA, we pay tribute to this floral marvel, not only through its decorative presence, but also in every dish we serve, seeking to capture the essence of Málaga and offer our guests a culinary experience that reflects the richness and charm of this region.
Although they are traditionally made during the summer, Málaga’s favourable climate means they can be made all year round. Let us explain what they are, where to find them and their presence at major events on the Costa del Sol, such as the Málaga Spanish Film Festival.
The origins and preparation of the biznaga The word «biznaga» has Arabic origins and means «gift from God». In the past, it was used as an air freshener because of its pleasant scent, and also as a natural remedy against mosquitoes. Today, the biznaga has become a decorative feature and one of the symbols of Málaga.
The biznaga is a handcrafted creation that combines jasmine flowers and nerdo stems, a type of thistle that is harvested before summer. It is made by inserting jasmine flowers, still in bud, into the stem in a ball-like shape, so that when night falls they open, releasing their characteristic fragrance.
Among the different types of jasmine, The most commonly used is Royal Jasmine, which has white flowers and a sweet scent.
The «biznaguero»
The street vendor who sells biznagas is known as a «biznaguero». He usually wears traditional dress and carries the biznagas on a prickly pear leaf known as a ‘penca’. As well as selling them, the biznaguero is responsible for making the biznagas, beginning his work well before summer. In the months leading up to the heat of summer, the nerdo is harvested and prepared by removing unnecessary leaves and branches, leaving only what will form the framework of the biznaga. It is then dried so that it becomes stiff and takes on a beige colour, allowing the jasmine to be inserted. During the summer, the penca is harvested and the thorns and jasmine flowers are removed.
The figure of the ‘biznaguero’ is honoured by the Statue of the Biznaguero, located in the Pedro Luis Alonso Gardens.
Málaga Film Festival and Feria de Málaga One of the best times to buy biznagas is during the Feria de Málaga, which takes place in August. Calle Larios is transformed into a veritable market of biznaga sellers offering these fragrant bouquets to visitors.
This symbol also plays an important role at the Málaga Spanish Film Festival. Every year, the winners receive a silver-plated figurine of a biznaga as their prize, and the top honour is the coveted Golden Biznaga.
The biznaga as a souvenir There is a variety of handmade souvenirs featuring biznaga motifs, such as jewellery, fans and brooches,
