The Alcazaba of Malaga
Are you in Málaga and not sure what to see (link to ‘What to see in Málaga’)? If you’re visiting this city on the Costa del Sol, a must-see is the Alcazaba in Málaga, one of the most impregnable fortresses of the Middle Ages.
We are talking about a building constructed during the period when Muslims occupied the peninsula, Al-Andalus. It is said to have been built by the Taifa king of Málaga, of the Hamudi dynasty. Some later sources mention that Badis Habus, king of the Zirid dynasty of Granada, was responsible for its renovation and extension.
The Alcazaba in Málaga is situated at the foot of Gibralfaro Hill, and right at its base lies the Roman theatre, which served as a cemetery whilst the Alcazaba was being built, and parts of which were expropriated to make way for it. Across the street stands the Palacio de la Aduana (Customs Palace), built in the Renaissance style. All of this makes this area a unique blend of Arab, Roman and Renaissance cultures, transforming this spot into a unique intercultural haven that you simply must not miss.
A visit to the Alcazaba in Málaga is the perfect way to round off a meal of tapas at that fantastic restaurant.
PEZWANDA
Just 10 minutes from the Alcazaba, you can enjoy the best tapas in Málaga, prepared by the great Diego René.
Here is a guide to the interior of the Alcazaba so you don’t miss a thing, along with opening times and admission prices.
What is there to see inside the Alcazaba?
There are two enclosures within the Alcazaba. To enter the first one, we must go through the main entrance gate, where we will find a map showing the route of the tour. The entrance gate, made of wrought iron, is one of the original features of the Alcazaba’s first construction, so it is over 600 years old – impressive, isn’t it? Next, we come to the ‘vaulted gate’, so called because it is covered by a brick vault.
Passing through the Arco del Cristo (Arch of Christ), you enter the second walled enclosure. Once through the gate, you will find the Plaza de Armas, so named because this is where the artillery cannons were placed following the Christian occupation of the area. The Plaza de Armas is characterised by its views and its charming garden, inspired by the era of Al-Andalus. When there are few people around, the sound of the fountains has a soothing effect. This, combined with the magnificent views, makes every moment unique.
If we continue climbing, we will reach the Gate of the Seven Arches, the final gate leading to the highest part of the fortress, where you will see how the kings of the ancient world slept: the Palace, which is distinguished by its Nasrid-style architecture.
The palace is surrounded by three courtyards. The first courtyard is the Courtyard of the Fountains, which features a beautiful fountain dating from the Caliphate in its centre. Further on lies the Nasrid Palace, where the second courtyard, the Orange Tree Courtyard, is situated. Finally, we arrive at the third courtyard, where the remains of a quarter once inhabited by the palace servants can be found.
Finally, we’ll make our way down from the Alcazaba to the Roman theatre, a place that’s also well worth a visit.
After this visit and a day in the Costa del Sol sunshine, we expect you’ll be thirsty. We therefore recommend you quench your thirst with a cocktail at the
Cambara restaurant
.
Opening times and admission prices for the Alcazaba in Málaga
Summer opening hours: 09:00 – 20:00 (from 1 April to 31 October)
Winter opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (1 November to 31 March)
Standard ticket price: €3.50.
Standard ticket price for groups: €2.50.
Reduced ticket price: €1.50.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the Alcazaba and a little about the’History of Málaga. We hope you’ll be able to visit it soon and see it for yourself!
